2 Canadian ETFs That Could Help You Retire a Millionaire

If you’re looking for growth, but are worried about stocks, consider these two Canadian ETFs that can provide the best of everything.

| More on:
ETF chart stocks

Image source: Getty Images

We talk a lot about Canadian stocks here at the Motley Fool. However, in the last decade, there has been a surge in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) available to Canadian investors. And with so many options, there have been more and more for Canadians to consider depending on their goals and investment style.

Today, we’re going to focus on growth. ETFs that could see you retire a millionaire — even if you don’t have all that much time or have all that much money! So, let’s get into two ETFs that could help you retire with that millionaire status.

CINV ETF

First, we’ll focus on CI Global Alpha Innovation ETF C$ Series (TSX:CINV). CINV aims to provide investors with exposure to global innovation and disruptive technologies. Therefore, Canadians can gain exposure to companies that usually are not listed on the TSX but through a Canadian asset management firm. 

The primary objective of the CI Global Alpha Innovation ETF is to achieve long-term capital growth. This is done by investing primarily in equity securities of global companies that are driving or benefiting from innovation. The stock does this by focusing on companies that are at the forefront of innovation across various sectors. These include sectors such as technology, healthcare, consumer discretionary, and other industries. These companies are often involved in developing disruptive technologies or business models that have the potential to transform industries and generate significant growth.

Overall, the ETF is actively managed, which can mean higher commission feeds. However, that comes with portfolio managers that actively select and manage the securities held in the fund rather than focusing on a passive index.

As mentioned, the fund invests in companies beyond Canada with a global, diversified portfolio. Even so, while investments in innovative companies can offer significant growth potential, they also come with higher risk levels due to factors such as technological disruption, regulatory uncertainties, and competition. Investors should be aware of the higher volatility associated with such investments and consider their risk tolerance before investing. Shares of CINV ETF are currently up by 43% in the last year alone.

XCS ETF

Second, let’s focus on iShares X&P/TSX SmallCap Index ETF (TSX:XCS), which provides investors with exposure to the Canadian small-cap equity market by tracking the performance of the S&P/TSX SmallCap Index. 

The XCS ETF focuses on small-cap companies listed on the TSX, which typically have smaller market capitalizations compared to large-cap or mid-cap companies. Small-cap companies are often in the early stages of growth and may have the potential for significant expansion as they develop and execute their business strategies. These companies may also be more nimble and able to capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Small-cap stocks are often associated with higher growth potential compared to larger, more established companies. They may be operating in niche markets, introducing innovative products or services, or experiencing rapid revenue and earnings growth. Investing in a diversified portfolio of small-cap stocks through XCS can provide exposure to this growth potential.

In the case of XCS ETF, this offers diverse exposure to a basket of small-cap stocks across various sectors of the Canadian economy. Whereas you see higher costs with CINV ETF, this index fund providers lower costs since it only tracks an index. So, with shares up 8% in the last year, this is another ETF that could help you towards that millionaire status. 

Fool contributor Amy Legate-Wolfe has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Stocks for Beginners

diversification and asset allocation are crucial investing concepts
Stocks for Beginners

The 3 Stocks I’d Buy and Hold Into 2026

Strong earnings momentum and clear growth plans make these Canadian stocks worth considering in 2026.

Read more »

pig shows concept of sustainable investing
Dividend Stocks

Your 2026 TFSA Game Plan: How to Turn the New Contribution Room Into Monthly Cash

With the 2026 TFSA limit at $7,000, a simple “set-and-reinvest” plan using cash-generating dividend staples like ENB, FTS, and PPL…

Read more »

Nurse talks with a teenager about medication
Dividend Stocks

A Perfect January TFSA Stock With a 6.8% Monthly Payout

A high-yield monthly payer can make a January TFSA reset feel automatic, but only if the cash flow truly supports…

Read more »

warehouse worker takes inventory in storage room
Tech Stocks

Boost the Average TFSA at 50 in Canada With 3 Market Moves This January

A January TFSA reset at 50 works best when you automate contributions and stick with investments that compound for years.

Read more »

where to invest in TFSA in 2026
Stocks for Beginners

TFSA 2026: The $109,000 Opportunity and How Canadians Should Invest It

Here's how to get started investing in a TFSA this year.

Read more »

top TSX stocks to buy
Stocks for Beginners

The Best TSX Stocks to Buy in January 2026 if You Want Both Income and Growth

A January TFSA reset can pair growth and “future income” by owning tech compounders that reinvest cash for years.

Read more »

A Canada Pension Plan Statement of Contributions with a 100 dollar banknote and dollar coins.
Dividend Stocks

Retirees, Take Note: A January 2026 Portfolio Built to Top Up CPP and OAS

A January TFSA top-up can make CPP and OAS feel less tight by adding a flexible, tax-free income stream you…

Read more »

Happy golf player walks the course
Tech Stocks

The January Reset: 2 Beaten-Down TSX Stocks That Could Stage a Comeback

A January TFSA reset can work best with “comeback” stocks that still have real cash engines, not just hype.

Read more »