2 TSX Stocks to Invest $20,000 and Create $2,597.60 in Passive Income

Need income? We got you, with these two top dividend stocks due for more solid growth and passive income.

| More on:
TFSA (Tax free savings account) acronym on wooden cubes on the background of stacks of coins

Source: Getty Images

Building a robust Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) portfolio with a focus on passive income is a savvy move for Canadian investors. With $20,000 to invest, selecting the right stocks is crucial. Two compelling options to consider are Headwater Exploration (TSX:HWX) and Mullen Group (TSX:MTL). Let’s delve into why these companies stand out.

The stocks

Headwater Exploration is a Canadian oil and gas company specializing in the exploration and production of hydrocarbons. As of writing, HWX’s stock price is $7.08, with a market capitalization of approximately $1.7 billion. The TSX stock boasts a trailing 12-month (ttm) profit margin of 37.7% and an operating margin of 47.7%, thus indicating efficient operations and profitability. Plus, HWX offers a forward annual dividend rate of $0.44, yielding 6.1%, providing investors with a steady income stream.

Mullen Group is one of Canada’s largest logistics providers, offering a wide range of services, including less-than-truckload, logistics, warehousing, and specialized hauling. As of writing, MTL’s stock price is $15.03, with a market capitalization of around $1.3 billion. The TSX stock maintains a profit margin of 6.2% and an operating margin of 12.4%, reflecting solid operational performance. MTL provides a forward annual dividend rate of $0.84, yielding 5.6%, making it an attractive choice for income-focused investors.

The numbers

In recent financial results, Headwater Exploration reported quarterly revenue growth of 4.9% year-over-year, with a net income of $184.6 million. The TSX stock’s return on assets (ROA) stands at 16.8% and return on equity (ROE) at 29%, thus highlighting effective management and strong financial health. Notably, HWX has a low debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12%, indicating prudent financial management.

Mullen Group’s latest quarterly report shows revenue of $532 million – a 5.6% increase compared to the same period last year, achieving record quarterly revenues. The TSX stock’s operating income before depreciation and amortization (OIBDA) was $95.3 million, up 7.6% from the prior year. Net income stood at $38.3 million, with earnings per share of $0.44. These results underscore Mullen Group’s resilience and growth potential in a competitive market.

Growth and income

Looking ahead, Headwater Exploration has announced plans to enter a new operating area, thus signalling potential for future growth and diversification. The TSX stock’s strategic initiatives and operational efficiency position it well to capitalize on opportunities in the energy sector.

Mullen Group has declared a monthly dividend and is targeting 10% growth in 2025, reflecting confidence in its business model and market position. The TSX stock’s focus on acquisitions and expanding service offerings indicates a commitment to driving shareholder value and sustaining income streams for investors.

Bottom line

By allocating $10,000 to each of these stocks within your TFSA, you can create a balanced portfolio that offers both capital appreciation potential and attractive dividend yields. This strategy not only provides passive income but also benefits from the tax-free growth environment of a TFSA, enhancing your overall returns. In fact, let’s see what happens if these stocks rise by another 7% each.

COMPANYRECENT PRICENUMBER OF SHARESDIVIDENDTOTAL PAYOUTFREQUENCYINVESTMENT TOTAL
MTL – now$15667$0.84$560.28monthly$10,000
MTL – 7%$16.05667$0.84$560.28monthly$10,705.35
HWX – now$71,429$0.44$628.76quarterly$10,000
HWX – 7%$7.491,429$0.44$628.76quarterly$10,703.21

In summary, Headwater and Mullen present compelling opportunities for investors seeking passive income through dividends and returns. You could now earn $1,408.56 in returns and $1,189.04 in dividends, totalling $2,597.60 in passive income – all supported by strong financial performance and positive future outlooks. The solid profit margins, consistent dividend payments, and strategic growth initiatives make these stocks suitable candidates for a TFSA portfolio focused on generating steady, tax-free income.

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

More on Dividend Stocks

Yellow caution tape attached to traffic cone
Dividend Stocks

The CRA Is Watching This January: Don’t Make These TFSA Mistakes

January TFSA mistakes usually aren’t about stocks; they’re about rushing contributions and accidentally triggering CRA penalties.

Read more »

Canadian Dollars bills
Dividend Stocks

The TFSA Paycheque Plan: How $10,000 Can Start Paying You in 2026

A TFSA “paycheque” plan can work best when one strong dividend stock is treated as a piece of a diversified…

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 »

senior couple looks at investing statements
Dividend Stocks

The TFSA’s Hidden Fine Print When It Comes to U.S. Investments

There's a 15% foreign withholding tax levied on U.S.-based dividends.

Read more »

young people stare at smartphones
Dividend Stocks

Is BCE Stock Finally a Buy in 2026?

BCE has stabilized, but I think a broad infrastructure focused ETF is a better bet.

Read more »

A plant grows from coins.
Dividend Stocks

Start 2026 Strong: 3 Canadian Dividend Stocks Built for Steady Cash Flow

Dividend stocks can make a beginner’s 2026 plan feel real by mixing income today with businesses that can grow over…

Read more »

senior relaxes in hammock with e-book
Dividend Stocks

2 High-Yield Dividend Stocks for Stress-Free Passive Income

These high-yield Canadian companies are well-positioned to maintain consistent dividend payments across varying economic conditions.

Read more »

Senior uses a laptop computer
Dividend Stocks

Below Average? How a 70-Year-Old Can Change Their RRSP Income Plan in January

January is the perfect time to sanity-check your RRSP at 70, because the “typical” balance is closer to the median…

Read more »