3 Top Canadian Stocks to Buy Today

Here are three of my top Canadian picks I’d recommend investors check out right now.

Building a diversified portfolio is crucial for investors to maximize their risk-adjusted returns over time. The three options I’ll be talking about today are some of the best options on the TSX right now in terms of growth, value, and income potential. Indeed, these stocks are ones I’d suggest every investor put on their watch list today.

Scotiabank

One of the primary reasons why Bank of Nova Scotia (TSX: BNS)(NYSE: BNS) has been on my radar is its strong international presence. Indeed, this large Canadian bank is heavily exposed to emerging markets with impressive long-term growth upside. Thus, I think this bank has the potential to produce sector-beating returns over time. Key markets such as Latin America provide a level of growth developed markets won’t be able to touch over the medium to long term.

As with its peers, Scotiabank’s stock has been hit hard as a result of the pandemic. However, this stock has surged more than 50% since last year and is now trading around the $77 mark at the time of writing. In the fourth quarter, this bank surpassed analysts’ expectations, as the company reported solid earnings per share of $1.22.

Canada’s third-largest bank has a dividend yield well in excess of 4%, which is juicy given where bond yields are today. Furthermore, I think that this company has a prudent business model, which represents a tonne of growth potential over the long term.

Algonquin Power

I think that Algonquin Power & Utilities (TSX: AQN)(NYSE: AQN) is one of the best options out there right now in the utilities space.

Indeed, the company’s regulated utilities base ensures stable cash flow growth over time. However, the renewables portfolio of this company is an often overlooked, but important factor to consider with this utilities play today. Indeed, I believe this is why Algonquin is such a favourite among dividend-growth investors right now.

Over the past couple years, Algonquin has turned its growing cash flows into double-digit dividend increases for its shareholders. With a dividend yield around 4%, this stock is certainly an excellent option for investors to consider today.                                                                           

Restaurant Brands

For investors on the quest for the best growth stock on the TSX today, Restaurant Brands (TSX: QSR)(NYSE: QSR) is an excellent option. Some of the most popular banners of this holding company include Burger King, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.

Over the past few years, the Tim Hortons banner has been lagging in terms of growth. Nevertheless, I think that there’s room for optimism today, as more acquisitions could be on the horizon. It has been quite a few years since this company purchased another banner. Hence, I believe that Restaurant Brands could try to reach for another deal over the medium term.

Absent a deal, this is still a great long-term growth pick. The company’s same-store sales growth in the Popeyes and Burger King brands speak to this. I think this is a great growth play at a reasonable price that every investor should consider today.

Fool contributor Chris MacDonald has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends BANK OF NOVA SCOTIA and RESTAURANT BRANDS INTERNATIONAL INC.

More on Dividend Stocks

man calculates finances
Dividend Stocks

How I’d Build Towards $750 a Month Without Putting All My Money in One Stock

Keyera, Exchange Income, and North West show how roughly $285,000 could generate an average of $750 a month in dividends.

Read more »

Printing canadian dollar bills on a print machine
Dividend Stocks

Buy This Little-Known Cash Machine for Your TFSA

Buy this lesser-known TSX real estate stock to earn attractive monthly dividends in your TFSA while benefiting from its growing…

Read more »

young people stare at smartphones
Dividend Stocks

BCE vs. Telus: Which Telecom Stock Has the Better Dividend Outlook After Q3?

BCE and Telus both cut their dividends over the past 18 months. After Q3, see which Canadian telecom stock has…

Read more »

Muscles Drawn On Black board
Dividend Stocks

Dividend Powerhouses: Top Canadian Stocks to Enhance Your Portfolio

These two Canadian dividend powerhouses offer attractive yields, encouraging earnings trends, and growth opportunities that could strengthen your portfolio over…

Read more »

Traffic jam with rows of slow cars
Dividend Stocks

1 Magnificent Canadian Stock Down 59% to Buy and Hold Forever

Boyd Group stock is down 59%, yet Q2 sales topped US$1 billion and margins hit 13.4%. See why this TSX…

Read more »

A series of red ladders lead to successively higher levels
Dividend Stocks

Is Brookfield Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold for 2027?

Is Brookfield stock a buy, sell or hold for 2027? Explore its latest earnings, insurance expansion and potential for long-term…

Read more »

diversification is an important part of building a stable portfolio
Dividend Stocks

Build a Lucrative Passive-Income Portfolio With Just $35,000

You can build a rewarding passive-income portfolio with just $35,000 by investing in these two attractive TSX dividend stocks, offering…

Read more »

Blocks conceptualizing Canada's Tax Free Savings Account
Dividend Stocks

How Much Would You Need in a TFSA to Replace a $500 Monthly Bill?

Replacing a $500 monthly bill starts with a realistic capital target and an income plan that can grow.

Read more »