The 3 Best Canadian Large-Cap Stocks to Buy for 2021

These three top large-cap stocks could deliver stellar returns in 2021. 

Large-cap companies are relatively stable and have proven their worth through solid financial and operating performance over the past several years. Since these companies are large, they may not grow as fast as smaller rivals, but this doesn’t mean they cannot generate high returns. 

We’ll discuss three top large-cap stocks listed on the TSX that could deliver stellar returns in 2021. 

Shopify 

Shopify (TSX: SHOP)(NYSE:SHOP) comes as a natural choice to me when it comes to large-cap stocks offering high growth. The e-commerce behemoth is Canada’s most valued publicly traded company with a market cap of over $170 billion. Meanwhile, Shopify has generated exceptional returns over the past several years and made its shareholders very rich. 

Its stock has appreciated by 933% in three years. Meanwhile, it rose by about 166% in one year. While the rally in its stock makes it unattractive on the valuation front, investors looking for high growth shouldn’t hesitate to buy it right now. 

Shopify stock is expected to benefit from positive secular trends that offer a multi-year growth opportunity. As businesses continue to move towards the omnichannel platform, Shopify’s digital products are witnessing high demand, and I believe the demand could sustain in the coming years, providing a solid base for growth. 

Shopify’s gross merchandise volume and revenues continue to grow at a brisk pace. Meanwhile, its adjusted operating expenses as a percentage of sales are trending down, which is encouraging. 

With rising e-commerce spending and expansion of its high-value products, Shopify remains well positioned to deliver robust growth in 2021 and beyond. 

Toronto-Dominion Bank

With a market of over $130 billion, Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSX: TD)(NYSE: TD) is another top large-cap stock that should be on your radar for stability and growth. The bank’s ability to drive loans and deposits and diversified business mix positions it well to benefit from the recovery in demand. 

I believe banks could witness strong credit growth in 2021, as vaccine distribution is likely to accelerate the pace of economic recovery. Meanwhile, strong expense management and reduction in provisions are likely to drive profitability. 

Toronto-Dominion Bank’s strong balance sheet, retail focus, and the U.S. expansion could help it to deliver strong growth. Meanwhile, investors are likely to benefit from Toronto-Dominion bank’s robust dividend payments. The bank’s dividends have grown at an average annual rate of 11% since 1995. Meanwhile, it currently offers a yield of 4.4%. 

TC Energy  

TC Energy‘s (TSX: TRP)(NYSE: TRP) strong balance sheet and high-quality energy infrastructure assets make it a top large-cap stock that offers stability and income. The pipeline company generates most of its revenue and earnings from businesses that are either regulated or have long-term contracts, implying that volatility in volumes and commodity prices aren’t likely to impact its business much. Moreover, it helps the company to deliver robust cash flows that drive its dividends.

While its core business remains strong, its $37 billion secured growth projects are expected to drive its profitability and dividends in the coming years. The company projects an 8-10% growth in its dividends for 2021. 

Notably, TC Energy is a Dividend Aristocrat and currently offers a high yield of 6.2%.

Fool contributor Sneha Nahata has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Tom Gardner owns shares of Shopify. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Shopify and Shopify.

More on Dividend Stocks

happy woman throws cash
Dividend Stocks

The Ideal TFSA Stock: A 5.9% Yield-Paying Constant Cash

Enbridge’s predictable cash flows, substantial growth pipeline, and long history of dividend increases underpin its long-term investment appeal for TFSA…

Read more »

woman gazes forward out window to future
Dividend Stocks

Dividend Income in Retirement: What Could Go Wrong?

Dividend investing is a proven way to create income in retirement but you must know the risks you need to…

Read more »

The TFSA is a powerful savings vehicle for Canadians who are saving for retirement.
Dividend Stocks

A 5% Monthly Payer I’d Buy for My TFSA: About $100 a Month on $24,000

Canada’s largest residential landlord offers a high yield, reliable monthly income, and a tax-sheltered foundation for TFSA investors.

Read more »

Two seniors walk in the forest
Dividend Stocks

Can Dividends Replace a Paycheque in Retirement?

Can dividends in retirement replace your paycheque? Explore how Scotiabank, RioCan REIT, and Fortis can help build a steady retirement…

Read more »

Sliced pumpkin pie
Dividend Stocks

The Fees That Quietly Eat Into a Small Investment

Many funds charge outrageous fees, but broad market index funds like the iShares S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF (TSX:XIC) usually…

Read more »

dividends grow over time
Dividend Stocks

The U.S. Dollar is Rising Again: Here’s What VFV Investors Should Know

VFV investors receive both U.S. equity returns and currency translation.

Read more »

businessmen shake hands to close a deal
Dividend Stocks

A Canada-India Trade Deal Could Be Big for Infrastructure: Is WSP Stock a Buy?

India could require roughly US$840 billion of urban infrastructure investment over 15 years.

Read more »

woman considering the future
Dividend Stocks

How Much Would You Need to Invest to Earn $100 a Month in Dividends?

These two monthly-paying dividend stocks can boost your passive income in this uncertain macroeconomic environment.

Read more »