As May 2025 unfolds, Canadian investors seeking reliable Canadian stocks have several compelling options. Among them, Chorus Aviation (TSX: CHR), Boardwalk Real Estate Investment Trust (TSX:BEI:UN), and Obsidian Energy (TSX: OBE) stand out for recent performance and growth prospects. So, let’s get into why investors may want to consider these top Canadian stocks.
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CHR
Chorus Aviation demonstrated strong financial results in the first quarter of 2025. The Canadian stock reported a net income of $18.9 million, up from $12.3 million in the same period last year. Adjusted earnings available to common shareholders increased to $15.4 million, or $0.57 per share. This was a solid increase compared to $3.7 million, or $0.13 per share, in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024.
This growth was driven by improved financial results, primarily related to increased parts sales, contract flying, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The Canadian stock’s adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) rose to $56.9 million from $54.0 million in the previous year. Free cash flow also improved, reaching $40.6 million compared to $30.7 million in Q1 2024. Chorus’s focus on returning capital to shareholders is evident through its substantial issuer bid of $25 million and share buybacks totalling $53 million since 2022. These initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to enhancing shareholder value.
BEI
Boardwalk REIT continues to benefit from resilient demand for quality affordable housing. In Q1 2025, the Canadian stock achieved an 11.6% year-over-year growth in funds from operations (FFO), reaching $1.06 per unit. Occupancy rates remained high, with a slight dip to 97.8% from 98.8% in Q1 2024, but preliminary May occupancy rebounded to 98.0%. Same-property net operating income (NOI) rose by 10.3%, driven by higher average rents and cost containment.
The trust’s regional diversification has contributed to its performance, with notable NOI growth in Edmonton and Saskatchewan. Boardwalk’s strategic capital allocation includes the sale of three Edmonton communities for $80 million and the acquisition of the Elbow 5 Eight community in Calgary for $93 million. These moves position the Canadian stock to capitalize on undervalued assets and reinforce its growth strategy.
OBE
Obsidian Energy reported solid financial results for the first quarter of 2025. The Canadian stock generated funds flow from operations of $100.1 million, or $1.36 per share, up from $84.4 million, or $1.09 per share, in Q1 2024. Net income increased to $15.4 million, or $0.21 per share, compared to $11.9 million, or $0.15 per share, in the same period last year. Production averaged 38,416 barrels of oil equivalent per day, marking a 12% increase year over year.
Obsidian’s focus on heavy oil development in the Peace River area contributed to this growth. The Canadian stock also completed a $320 million divestiture of its Pembina assets, significantly reducing net debt to approximately $250 million. Obsidian’s active share-buyback program, with approximately 3.5 million shares repurchased and cancelled in 2025, underscores its commitment to enhancing shareholder value.
Bottom line
These three companies offer investors a blend of income and growth potential. Chorus’s strong financial performance and shareholder-friendly initiatives make it an attractive option in the aviation sector. Boardwalk’s focus on affordable housing and strategic capital allocation position it well in the real estate market. Obsidian’s operational efficiency and debt reduction efforts enhance its appeal in the energy sector. Investors seeking reliable Canadian stocks in May 2025 may find these companies worthy of consideration for their portfolios.
