I recently added to my positions in the home improvement retailer Home Depot (NYSE: HD) and the tobacco giant British American Tobacco (NYSE: BTI). Earlier this month, the better-than-expected consumer price index reading of 7.7% provided investors with a respite from the downturn in financial markets that has largely persisted throughout this year. And with the professional contractor share of its business around 50%, Home Depot continues to win over the most lucrative customer base.