Underperformers rated Buy by BofA include chipmaker Applied Materials (AMAT, $136), down 14% this year through Feb. 4, and homebuilder D.R. The market has endured waves of volatility as investors try to balance strong corporate fundamentals against the fear of monetary tightening as the Federal Reserve attempts to contain inflation. SEE MORE 5 Super Stocks to Stave Off Sizzling Inflation On the plus side for the economy and financial markets is a pile of cash on corporate and household balance sheets that has built up during the pandemic.