Recession 101: Part 5 of 5

Join me on this mini-series as I explore the intricacies of a recession.

Alas, we have reached the final article in my mini-series on recessions. I hope you have found the reading informative and enjoyable, and I am looking forward to doing another mini-series on investing very soon.

Up until today, we have covered a history of recessions, the indicators of a recession, industries to look into, and industries to avoid.

In this article, we will be talking about the post-recession economy and what that means for investors. For those of you who experienced the 2008 recession, I’m sure you will agree that the economic recovery is definitely more favourable than the recession itself.

Economists vary in how they classify the recovery phase after a recession. Some economists only recognize recession and expansion phases, whereas others are more detailed and focus on phases within phases, such as the early and late recovery phase. In this article, we will explore the more detailed version.

Early recovery phase

In the early recovery phase, consumers’ expectations start to increase. The general sentiment is one of cautious positivity. The interest rate essentially reaches its trough, and the yield curve becomes steeper.

Industrial stocks increase near the beginning, and energy stocks increase near the end. The industrial sector is involved in producing goods for the construction and manufacturing sectors. One Canadian example of an industrial stock is Canfor. It is a softwood lumber company with operations across North America.

One example of a Canadian energy stock is Fortis, which is involved in the energy sector. It specializes in electricity and gas and services customers across the United States and Canada. The company’s net income increased from $379 million in FY 2014 to $1.2 billion in FY 2018.

Late recovery phase

In the late recovery phase, interest rates increase rapidly, and the yield curve begins to flatten. Consumer expectations begin to decline.

Consumer staples increase near the beginning and services increase toward the end. One solid Canadian stock operating in the consumer staples sector is Metro. I recently wrote a bullish article on Metro due to its increasing net incomes and recent acquisition of Jean-Coutu for $4.5 billion.

One example of a Canadian services stock is Savaria. This company is engaged in the designing, engineering, and manufacturing of personal mobility devices ranging from retrofitted vans to in-home elevators. The company’s net income increased from $6 million to $18 million in a mere five years.

Bottom line

When it comes to the post-recession economy, it is both a time for joy and careful reflection. Although share prices are increasing, it is important to find out the cause of the recession and take preventative measure for the next time.

With regards to the economy, several sectors are bullish during the recovery phase, which include the industrial, energy, consumer staples and services industries.

Granted, the company you invest in is performing well, these stocks will deliver generous returns in a post-recession economy. Out of the stocks mentioned above, I would highly recommend you look into Savaria, as it has experienced tremendous growth in the past several years, and there is evidence it will continue to do so.

If you liked this article, click the link below for exclusive insight.

Fool contributor Chen Liu has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Savaria is a recommendation of Hidden Gems Canada.

More on Investing

Person holding a smartphone with a stock chart on screen
Dividend Stocks

DIY Investors: How to Build a Stable Income Portfolio Starting With $50,000

Telus (TSX:T) stock might be tempting for dividend investors, but there are risks to know about.

Read more »

dividend growth for passive income
Dividend Stocks

These Dividend Stocks Are Built to Keep Paying and Paying

These Canadian companies have durable operations, strong cash flows, and management teams that prioritize returning capital to investors.

Read more »

Woman checking her computer and holding coffee cup
Dividend Stocks

New Year, New Income: How to Aim for $300 a Month in Tax-Free Dividends

A $300/month TFSA dividend goal starts with building a base and can be a practical “income foundation” if cash-flow coverage…

Read more »

AI concept person in profile
Tech Stocks

Tech’s January Bounce: 2 Canadian Stocks That Could Lead a 2026 Rebound

A January tech bounce can happen fast when fresh money and improving mood push investors back into overlooked Canadian names.

Read more »

tsx today
Stock Market

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Wednesday, January 7

After the TSX climbed to a second straight record, the market’s focus shifts to mixed commodity signals and major economic…

Read more »

top TSX stocks to buy
Dividend Stocks

Last Chance for a Fresh Start: 3 TSX Stocks to Buy for a Strong January 2026

Starting fresh in January is easier when you buy a few durable TSX “sleep-well” businesses and let time do the…

Read more »

Man looks stunned about something
Dividend Stocks

Don’t Overthink It: The Best $21,000 TFSA Approach to Start 2026

With $21,000 to start a TFSA in 2026, a simple four-holding mix can balance Canadian income with global diversification.

Read more »

ETFs can contain investments such as stocks
Investing

2 Spectacular Monthly Income ETFs With Yields Up to 7.4%

BMO Covered Call Utilities ETF (TSX:ZWU) and another ETF that's a source of big monthly income and capital gains potential.

Read more »