A Simple Way to Invest During the U.S.-Canada Trade War

Investors can focus on solid companies and employ a simple investing strategy via dollar-cost averaging.

The ongoing 2025 U.S.-Canada trade war, which began in February, could continue to create volatility in the stock market, leaving investors feeling uncertain. While short-term fluctuations can be concerning, long-term investors can seize opportunities during market corrections. One of the simplest and most effective strategies to navigate this uncertainty is identifying strong, fundamentally sound businesses and dollar-cost averaging into these stocks over time. By focusing on solid companies and using technical analysis to pinpoint ideal entry (and exit) points, investors can ride out market turmoil and capitalize on opportunities as they arise.

calculate and analyze stock

Image source: Getty Images

Savaria

Savaria (TSX: SIS), a leader in the healthcare and accessibility sectors, has seen its stock experience a pullback from a high of about $24 per share in late 2024. With shares currently trading below $17, this correction presents a compelling buying opportunity for long-term investors looking for a discounted stock.

Savaria specializes in mobility and accessibility products, such as stair lifts, vertical platforms, and home elevators. These products should have increasing demand as the aging population grows and the need for home healthcare solutions continues to rise. The company’s expansion, both through organic growth and strategic acquisitions, positions it well for future success.

Moreover, Savaria offers a monthly dividend with an attractive yield of approximately 3.2%. With a strong focus on innovation and a broad product portfolio, Savaria is well-positioned to benefit from the long-term trends in healthcare and accessibility. Currently, analysts believe the stock offers a 28% discount, making it an enticing option for those seeking both growth and income.

Stella-Jones

Similarly, Stella-Jones (TSX: SJ), a major player in the North American market for pressure-treated wood products, has also seen its stock price correct by about 30% from its 52-week high of $98. This dip could offer long-term investors an attractive entry point at a better valuation.

Stella-Jones serves critical sectors such as utilities, transportation, and industrial applications, with a diversified product portfolio that includes railroad ties, utility poles, and other industrial wood products. Steady demand for its products should continue to drive long-term growth in its revenue and earnings. Its ability to weather economic fluctuations and to make strategic acquisitions should enhance its resilience and market position.

Notably, Stella-Jones is a Canadian dividend knight, boasting an impressive 10-year dividend-growth rate of 14.9%. Priced at $66.74 per share at writing, analysts suggest the stock is undervalued by approximately 21%. With a combination of durable earnings, growing dividends, and growth potential, Stella-Jones is a good consideration for long-term investors.

Dollar-cost averaging: A simple strategy for volatile times

In light of ongoing market volatility driven by the trade war, a simple way to invest is through dollar-cost averaging. This strategy involves regularly investing a fixed amount of money into stocks, regardless of market conditions. By spreading out purchases over time, investors can reduce the impact of short-term market fluctuations and avoid the temptation to time the market.

Another option is to watch the technical charts and buy shares when positive signals align with strong fundamentals. This approach allows investors to take advantage of dips while still ensuring that they are investing in companies with solid growth prospects.

The Foolish investor takeaway

While the U.S.-Canada trade war creates market uncertainty, it also presents unique opportunities for long-term investors. By focusing on fundamentally strong companies like Savaria and Stella-Jones and employing strategies like dollar-cost averaging, investors can navigate volatility and position themselves for long-term success.

Fool contributor Kay Ng has positions in Savaria. The Motley Fool recommends Stella-Jones. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Investing

ETFs can contain investments such as stocks
Investing

Is VFV a Good ETF for Canadian Investors?

Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (TSX:VFV) is a go-to bet for many Canadians and for good reason.

Read more »

investor looks at volatility chart
Dividend Stocks

This All-Weather Dividend Stock Handles Market Volatility Like a Boss

Loblaw combines defensive grocery and pharmacy demand with growing earnings, new stores, and a rising dividend.

Read more »

dreaming of financial success
Dividend Stocks

Too Busy to Invest? 3 Set-and-Forget Stocks to Just Buy Already

Too busy to watch the market? These three set-and-forget stocks offer familiar businesses and dividends for a long-term Canadian portfolio.

Read more »

oil pumps at sunset
Investing

“Canada Has What the World Wants,” Carney Tells Investors. Here Are the Sectors He’s Highlighting

These TSX stocks offer targeted ways for investors to access Canada’s key sectors with strong growth potential.

Read more »

you're never too young or old to start investing in stocks
Energy Stocks

The Stock That Could Pay for Your Kids’ Education if You Start Today

Saving for your child's education doesn't have to mean a savings account. Here's how one TSX dividend stock could quietly…

Read more »

Trans Alaska Pipeline with Autumn Colors
Dividend Stocks

AltaGas and Pembina Pipeline Stock Are Great Choices for Both Stability and Growth

AltaGas and Pembina Pipeline are great choices for growing, stability, and income. Here's why they are great buys now.

Read more »

Partially complete jigsaw puzzle with scattered missing pieces
Dividend Stocks

1 of the Only Stocks You Need to Understand This Year

An under-the-radar outperforming stock is a compelling option for value and growth investors.

Read more »

Blocks conceptualizing Canada's Tax Free Savings Account
Dividend Stocks

Why This 5.9% Canadian Dividend Stock Deserves a Spot in Your TFSA Today

Patient investors get paid well to ride out further turbulence.

Read more »