Large-cap stocks are shares of companies with market capitalizations of $10 billion or higher. These businesses are often well-established, with proven business models, strong brand recognition, and consistent revenue streams. While the returns that these companies generate often aren’t as dramatic as those of so-called growth stocks, large-cap or blue-chip stocks provide steady gains over time. 
Here are two large-cap stocks that could complement a well-balanced portfolio by offsetting riskier bets in this volatile market.

Blue-Chip Stock #1: General Motors

With a market cap of $44.3 billion, General Motors (GM) is one of America’s most recognizable automakers. It operates globally, manufacturing vehicles under well-known brands such as Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Buick. The company is aggressively pushing into electric vehicles (EVs), self-driving cars, and software-based mobility solutions, which are traditionally dominated by tech disruptors such as Tesla (TSLA). 

GM stock is down 17.5% year-to-date.

GM ended 2024 with a 9.1% increase in revenue, totaling $187.4 billion. Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) came in at $10.60, up 38%. EV production and wholesaling in North America reached 189,000 units, with over 146,000 deliveries, and GM reduced EV inventory from 100 to 70 days by the end of the year. Notably, the EV business turned variable profit positive in the fourth quarter thanks to new models such as the Cadillac Escalade IQ and Sierra EV. 

GM is also expanding the Super Cruise hands-free driving system. In the Q4 earnings call, management stated that around 60% of Super Cruise’s 360,000 customers use the feature on a regular basis, and subscription revenue is increasing. By 2025, the company expects to have more than doubled its subscription revenue. Furthermore, GM has a long-term target of $2 billion in annual Super Cruise revenue within five years.

GM’s balanced capital allocation strategy enabled it to generate $14 billion in adjusted automotive free cash flow while returning $7.6 billion to shareholders. Like many large-cap stocks, GM consistently pays and increases dividends. The company recently announced a 25% increase in quarterly dividends and a new $6 billion share repurchase program. GM pays a forward dividend yield of 1.09%.

In the earnings call, CEO Mary Barra acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding U.S. public policy, regulation, and future tariffs. However, the company’s 2025 guidance does not account for potential future policy changes. GM is confident that its continued focus on EV profitability, luxury market growth, and subscription-based revenue will result in another successful year in 2025. Adjusted earnings are expected to grow by around 8% for the full year 2025, with analysts forecasting a 6.3% increase.

Recently, the company announced a 17% increase in U.S. sales in the first quarter of 2025, bringing its total sales growth forecast to 94%. In addition, the company reported that it had sold over 442,000 units through its Chinese joint venture. Notably, sales of new energy vehicles (NEVs) – which include both battery electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles – increased by 53.2% year-over-year. The company will report its Q1 results on April 29. Management stated, “Strong performance in Q1 has set a solid foundation for our sustainable and profitable growth throughout 2025.”

GM remains profitable, even as it invests heavily in EVs. Its balance sheet is relatively strong, and its free cash flow supports reinvestment, buybacks, and dividends.

Overall, General Motors stock remains a “Moderate Buy” on Wall Street. Of the 24 analysts covering the stock, eight rate it a “Strong Buy,” one says it is a “Moderate Buy,” 12 rate it a “Hold,” and three say it is a “Strong Sell.” The average analyst target price for GM is $54.15, representing a 22.7% increase from current levels. Furthermore, analysts have set a high price target of $105, implying that the stock could rise up to 137.4% in the next year.

Blue-Chip Stock #2: Mastercard

With a market capitalization of $471.6 billion, Mastercard (MA) is a global payments fintech company that allows consumers, businesses, merchants, and governments to make secure electronic payments in over 220 countries and territories. Importantly, Mastercard does not issue cards or provide credit; rather, it facilitates transactions between banks and merchants. This “middleman” model reduces capital requirements while increasing profitability. 

MA stock has fallen 4.1% year-to-date.

The payments giant reported a 14% increase in Q4 net revenue to $7.5 billion and a 20% increase in adjusted net income to $3.82 per share. Cross-border volumes increased by an impressive 20%, reflecting sustained travel demand and strong non-travel spending, including cryptocurrency purchases. Mastercard’s performance, according to CEO Michael Miebach, was driven by resilient consumer spending, a healthy labor market, and moderated inflation, despite ongoing global economic uncertainty and geopolitical risks.

With over $11 trillion and 1.5 trillion in cash and check transactions worldwide, Mastercard sees a huge opportunity to drive digital adoption. Furthermore, commercial flows are a significant opportunity, with an $80 trillion serviceable addressable market, according to management. Mastercard’s commercial volumes increased by 11% year-over-year in 2024, and its Mastercard Move disbursement platform saw a 40% increase in Q4. 

Like General Motors, Mastercard has consistently returned money to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. In 2024, the company repurchased $11 billion in stock and paid dividends totaling $2.4 billion. Mastercard pays a forward dividend yield of 0.6%.

Mastercard will release its Q1 results on May 1. The company anticipates revenue growth in the low teens (currency neutral, excluding acquisitions). Revenue for the full year could be in the high end of the low double digits to low teens range. Analysts predict that revenue and earnings will grow by 11.9% and 8.8%, respectively, in 2025. Revenue and earnings are expected to grow by 12.4% and 17.4%, respectively, in 2026.

Mastercard is still growing like a tech company but with the profitability and resilience of a mature financial powerhouse.

Overall, Mastercard stock remains a “Strong Buy” on Wall Street. Of the 38 analysts covering the stock, 28 rate it a “Strong Buy,” three suggest a “Moderate Buy,” and seven rate it a “Hold.” The average analyst target price for MA is $621.30, representing a 22% increase from current levels. Furthermore, analysts have set a high price target of $690, implying that the stock could rise up to 36% in the next year.