2 TSX Stocks to Hold for Steady Gains

These TSX stocks are backed by a defensive business model and consistently deliver above-average returns for their shareholders.

| More on:

The TSX offers several high-quality stocks that are worth holding for decades to create wealth. However, only a select few Canadian stocks consistently deliver steady, reliable gains year after year.

What sets these companies apart are their strong fundamentals and resilient business models. Regardless of market volatility, they have a proven ability to grow both revenue and profit. This consistent performance drives solid capital appreciation, resulting in increasing dividend payouts that enhance overall returns for shareholders.

With this background, here are two TSX stocks to hold for steady gains.

stocks climbing green bull market

Source: Getty Images

Dollarama stock

Dollarama (TSX:DOL) is a solid stock to generate steady returns. This discount retailer has consistently outpaced the broader market thanks to its recession-resistant business model and low-price strategy.

Dollarama sells a wide range of everyday items and seasonal goods at fixed, low-dollar prices. This value-driven approach keeps demand strong throughout the year. Plus, with new store openings, Dollarama continues to attract more shoppers and boost its financial performance.

Dollarama kicked off its fiscal 2026 on a high note. In the first quarter, sales rose 8.2% year-over-year to $1.5 billion, mainly due to store expansion over the past 12 months. Comparable store sales also climbed 4.9%, fueled by a 3.7% increase in transactions and a 1.2% rise in the average purchase size. Strong demand for everyday essentials and solid seasonal sales contributed significantly to this growth.

Thanks to its consistent performance, Dollarama stock has delivered impressive gains. So far this year, shares are up about 37.3%. Over the past five years, DOL has grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 32.5%, resulting in total returns of more than 308%. Additionally, Dollarama has been returning higher cash to its shareholders, increasing its dividend 14 times since 2011.

Looking ahead, Dollarama’s low prices, strong supply chain, and expanding geographical footprint are expected to continue driving earnings and supporting future dividend increases.

In summary, Dollarama is a perfect stock for investors seeking steady returns through capital appreciation and dividend income.

Hydro One stock

Hydro One (TSX:H) is another reliable stock for steady returns. Its regulated electricity transmission and distribution operations remain immune to commodity price swings, making its earnings more predictable.

Thanks to its low-risk earnings and steady financials, Hydro One stock has grown at a CAGR of 17.3% over the last five years, delivering capital gains of 122.6%. Besides outperforming the TSX with its growth, Hydro One also appeals to income-focused investors. The company has raised its dividend at a steady 5% CAGR over the past eight years and currently pays an annualized dividend of $1.33 per share.

Hydro One’s prospects remain solid, supported by a robust balance sheet, strong internally generated cash flows, and an expanding rate base. Its rate base is projected to grow at a 6% CAGR through 2027, which is expected to drive annual earnings growth of 6–8% and continued dividend increases of about 6%.

As long-term trends such as electrification, data centre expansion, and population growth push power demand higher, Hydro One, with its defensive business model, is well-positioned to benefit and deliver steady gains.

Fool contributor Sneha Nahata 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 Dividend Stocks

man touches brain to show a good idea
Dividend Stocks

Why BCE’s Dividend Has Been in the Spotlight Lately 

Analyze BCE's recent challenges and their implications on its dividend strategy and telecom market position in Canada.

Read more »

cookies stack up for growing profit
Dividend Stocks

5 Canadian Stocks I’d Buy for ‘Instant Income’

Instant income isn’t a gimmick: these five Canadian REITs can start paying you now, even in a shaky market.

Read more »

dividend stocks bring in passive income so investors can sit back and relax
Dividend Stocks

If You Love Income, Consider This High-Yield Stock as a Telus Alternative

Canadian Tire (TSX:CTC.A) stock might have more to offer on the growth front than other ultra-high-yielders.

Read more »

dividend stocks are a good way to earn passive income
Dividend Stocks

1 Canadian Dividend Stock Down 12% to Buy Now and Hold for Years

Here's why Canadian Apartments REIT (TSX:CAR.UN) looks like a top-tier opportunity for investors in the real estate sector right now.

Read more »

groceries get more expensive as inflation rises
Dividend Stocks

Inflation Just Cooled Down to 1.8%, and These Stocks Are Positioned to Benefit

Softer inflation can quietly help these TSX names by easing cost pressure, improving consumer credit, and supporting longer-duration growth stories.

Read more »

investor looks at volatility chart
Dividend Stocks

The Best Canadian Stock to Own When Volatility Returns

Fortis stock has the benefit of stable and predictable earnings due to its regulated business. See why it's a must-own.

Read more »

top TSX stocks to buy
Dividend Stocks

Invest $50,000 in This Dividend Stock for $2,580 in Passive Income

Brookfield Renewable Partners (TSX:BEP.UN) can add considerable passive income to your portfolio.

Read more »

pig shows concept of sustainable investing
Dividend Stocks

Should You Buy the 3 Highest-Paying Dividend Stocks on the TSX? (One Recently Yielded 16.8%.)

Decisive Dividend (TSXV:DE) has a remarkable 6.8% dividend yield.

Read more »