Although you probably don't need the reminder, last year was Wall Street's worst since 2008. Throughout 2022, all three major U.S. stock indexes were hurtled into a bear market.

But things weren't quite as bad for the widely followed Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI), which ended last year lower by just 9%. Because the Dow is comprised of 30 generally profitable and time-tested businesses, these companies -- and therefore the Dow Jones Industrial Average -- are well-positioned to successfully navigate a bear market and/or economic downturn.

With economic uncertainty still high, the Dow's 30 components can be a smart place for investors to begin their research. Just keep in mind that not every Dow component will necessarily be a winner.

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Source Fool.com