Should You Put Your Money in Royal Bank of Canada or in Toronto-Dominion Bank?

A comparison between Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSX:TD)(NYSE:TD) and Royal Bank of Canada (TSX:RY)(NYSE:RY), Canada’s two biggest banks. Who will win the battle of the giants?

The Motley Fool

Royal Bank of CanadaĀ (TSX: RY)(NYSE: RY) and Toronto-Dominion BankĀ (TSX: TD)(NYSE: TD) are the two largest banks in Canada, the first being the biggest one.

These banks are both very solid financially, but is one of them a better investment? A look at their latest financial results will give us a better idea.

Toronto-Dominion Bank

TD Bank released its 2017 second-quarter results on May 25, which were ahead of market expectations due toĀ a strong performance in its retail and investment banking businesses.

TD Bank had revenue of $8.47 billion during the quarter. This is a rise of 2.6% compared to the revenue of $8.26 billion earned during the same quarter last year.

Net income rose to $2.5 billion in the quarter — up 21.95% from $2.05 billion in the previous year.

It reported adjusted EPS of $1.34, beating by $0.10 analysts’Ā estimate of $1.24. This is a rise ofĀ 16.67% from the adjusted EPS that the firm posted for the same quarter in 2016, which was $1.20.

On average, equities research analysts expect that the bank will post EPS of $5.37 for the current year.

TD Bank also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.60 per share that will be payable on July 31. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.68%. The bank payout ratio is presently 44.4%. The last dividend increase was at the end of 2016 when TD Bank rised its dividend by 10% from $0.55 per share.

TD BankĀ has a net profit margin of 26.42% and a return on equity of 14.15%.

The stock has a market cap of $120.6 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.9, and a beta of 0.67.

The average 12-month price target among analysts covering TD Bank’s stockĀ is $69.

Royal Bank of Canada

RBC issued itsĀ 2017 second-quarter results on May 25, which beatĀ market forecasts, helped by a strong performance in its capital markets and wealth management businesses.

RBCĀ had revenue of $10.31 billion during the quarter. This is a rise of 8.2% compared to the revenue of $9.53 billion earned during the same quarter last year.

Net income rose to $2.81 billion in the quarter — up 9.34% from $2.57 billion in the previous year.

The financial services provider reported adjusted EPS of $1.85, beating by $0.05 analysts estimate of $1.80. This is a rise ofĀ 11.45% from the adjusted EPS that the firm posted for the same quarter in 2016, which was $1.66.

On average, equities research analysts expect that the bank will post EPS of $7.46 for the current year.

RBC also declared a quarterly dividend of $0.87 per share that will be payable on August 24. This represents a $3.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.66%. The bankĀ payout ratio is presently 45.4%. The last dividend increase was at the end of 2016 when RBCĀ rised its dividend by 4.8% from $0.83 per share.

RBC has a net profit margin of 28.63% and a return on equity of 17.24%.

The stock has a market cap of $138.6 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.9, and a beta of 0.96.

The average 12-month price target among analysts covering RBC’s stockĀ is $99.

After having compared the two big banks, I would say that TD Bank is the winner. Its revenue hasn’t risen has much has RBC’s revenue, but it was able to raise its net income and EPS by much more, which suggests more efficient financial management. TD Bank also increased its dividend more than RBC.

Nevertheless, RBC’s stock is also a great investment. You’re not taking much risk by investing in a big bank. Big banks pay high dividends, and their share prices rise consistently over the long term. However, if you’re looking for more growth, I would say TD Bank is the best choice at the moment.

Fool contributor Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf has no position in any stocks mentioned.

More on Dividend Stocks

person on phone leaning against outside wall with scenic view at airbnb rental property
Dividend Stocks

Is BCE Still a Buy? Here’s My Verdict

Down 60% from its peak, BCE stock now offers a 6.1% yield. Is this Canadian telecom giant a dividend trap…

Read more Ā»

senior man and woman stretch their legs on yoga mats outside
Dividend Stocks

2 TFSA Habits That Work While Saving But Backfire in Retirement

These two common TFSA habits may become less effective once you enter retirement.

Read more Ā»

man looks worried about something on his phone
Dividend Stocks

Is Telus Still a Buy Right Now? Here’s My Verdict

Telus stock has been hit hard in 2026, but its push to reduce debt and improve cash flow could give…

Read more Ā»

Paper Canadian currency of various denominations
Dividend Stocks

Forget GICs — This 6.93% Dividend Stock Pays You Monthly

SmartCentres is a monthly dividend stock yielding 6.93% and paying investors monthly. Here’s why this Canadian REIT could appeal.

Read more Ā»

man touches brain to show a good idea
Dividend Stocks

You’ve Already Missed a Year of Dividends: Here’s Why I Wouldn’t Miss Another

You may have missed a year of dividends from one of Canada’s largest banks, but its growing income stream can…

Read more Ā»

data analyze research
Dividend Stocks

Before You Buy a Dividend Stock for Retirement, Check This Number

A tempting dividend yield means little if the company doesn't generate enough earnings or cash flow to support it.

Read more Ā»

happy woman throws cash
Dividend Stocks

The Dividend Stock for People Who Are Tired of Worrying About Money

This Canadian dividend stock offers a 4.3% yield supported by regulated utility operations and a multibillion-dollar growth plan through 2030.

Read more Ā»

A family watches tv using Roku at home.
Dividend Stocks

Why I Keep Passing on Telus and BCE for This Dividend Stock Instead

Rogers may not offer the highest telecom dividend yield, but its improving cash flow, lower capital spending, and valuable sports…

Read more Ā»