Better Buy in February 2024: Magna Stock vs. Aritzia Stock

When it comes to long-term growth, which is the better buy: Magna (TSX:MG) stock or Aritzia (TSX:ATZ) stock on the TSX today?

| More on:
data analyze research

Image source: Getty Images

We’re starting to look back at February, and seeing where some companies thrived and others fell after earnings. Two of the companies that investors now may want to consider after earnings then are Magna International (TSX:MG) and Aritzia (TSX:ATZ). Both companies had strong performance and a history of growth stock status in the past. But are these two headed towards more of that in the future?

Here’s which one I would consider on the TSX today between Magna stock and Artizia stock.

Magna stock

When it comes to Magna stock, investors are likely looking ahead. The company has a strong outlook, given its exposure to electric vehicle (EV) production. While Magna stock has already seen growth in this area, it still brings in a lot from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles as well. Every car has electronic components now, making the transition a seamless one for the company.

There is also an increasing demand for lightweight materials, and Magna stock has taken the call. It’s now a leader in developing and manufacturing lightweight materials, helping to improve fuel efficiency as well as battery life in EVs.

While the stock faces competition on a global scale, here in Canada, it’s an industry leader. And this has been seen in its recent performance. After poor results during the pandemic, Magna stock has been coming back strong. The company reported diluted earnings per share (EPS) of US$0.94, triple the year before. For the year, it hit US$4.23, up from US$4.16 a year earlier.

Meanwhile, shares of the stock trade at 12.84 times earnings and offer a 3.47% dividend yield. Shares are now back to where they were a year ago, seeing growth of 11% since the market bottomed in October. It now looks like it’s a valuable time to pick up the stock, especially for long-term shareholders.

Aritzia stock

Then there’s Aritzia stock, a company that had the opposite position during the pandemic. The company surged with more United States growth than ever. It went on to open more and more locations across the country, seeing shares climb in response. It helps that people such as Meghan Markle seem to wear their stuff as well.

But there’s more than just celebrity status for the company. Aritzia stock is latching on to the continued growth of the women’s apparel market, especially in the United States. This is expected to reach US$2.2 trillion by 2027, driven by more disposable income and increasing demand for online shopping.

Plus, the company is marketed as “everyday luxury,” catering to customers who can afford to pay a premium for quality and design. And now, customers can pick up through online and physical stores, with more plans to expand.

But does it seem too valuable with all this good news? During the latest quarter, Aritzia stock reported EPS of $0.47, which was down from $0.67 the year before. Even so, revenue climbed 5%, despite net income dropping 39%. If you’re wondering if it’s valuable, Aritzia stock certainly thinks so; it recently approved an automatic share-repurchase plan. Still, it trades at 43.53 times earnings over the last year, with shares down 16%. Shares have climbed 67% though since November bottoms, so there could be more on the way.

Bottom line

Aritzia stock, to me, just looks too volatile at these levels. Growth should stabilize in the near future, and when it does so will the stock. And that’s the time I would pick it up. Meanwhile, Magna stock has a stable and bright future ahead — especially through the use of EVs, and that should last for a decade at least! And with a dividend on top, it’s what I would consider on the TSX today.

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Aritzia. The Motley Fool recommends Magna International. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Stocks for Beginners

A glass jar resting on its side with Canadian banknotes and change inside.
Stocks for Beginners

How to Grow Your TFSA Well Past the Average

Need to catch up quick with your TFSA? Consider some regular contributions to this top bank stock, as well as…

Read more »

An investor uses a tablet
Stocks for Beginners

Prediction: Here Are the Most Promising Canadian Stocks for 2025

Here are three top Canadian stocks that could deliver solid returns on your investments in 2025.

Read more »

Top TSX Stocks

A 6 Percent Dividend Yield Today! But Here’s Why I’m Buying This TSX Stock for the Long Term

Want a great stock to buy? You will regret not buying this TSX stock and its decades of growth and…

Read more »

grow money, wealth build
Dividend Stocks

TELUS Stock Has a Nice Yield, But This Dividend Stock Looks Safer

TELUS stock certainly has a shiny dividend, but the dividend stock simply doesn't look as stable as this other high-yielding…

Read more »

sale discount best price
Stocks for Beginners

Have $2,000? These 2 Stocks Could Be Bargain Buys for 2025 and Beyond

Fairfax Financial Holdings (TSX:FFH) and another bargain buy are fit for new Canadian investors.

Read more »

Rocket lift off through the clouds
Stocks for Beginners

2 Canadian Growth Stocks Set to Skyrocket in the Next 12 Months

Despite delivering disappointing performance in 2024, these two cheap Canadian growth stocks could offer massive upside in 2025.

Read more »

A train passes Morant's curve in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies.
Dividend Stocks

1 Magnificent Canadian Stock Down 12% to Buy and Hold Forever

This top stock may be down 12% right now, but don't see that as a problem. See it as a…

Read more »

woman looks at iPhone
Dividend Stocks

Retirees: Is TELUS Stock a Risky Buy?

TELUS stock has long been a strong dividend provider, but what should investors consider now after recent earnings?

Read more »