3 TSX Stocks Built to Survive Any Global Shock

The world has been shaken up these last few months and really years! So, here’s how to protect your portfolio.

| More on:

When markets get rattled by global shocks, it’s easy to panic. Whether it’s inflation, geopolitical tensions, or recession worries, uncertainty tends to shake confidence. But in the midst of the noise, some companies have proven they can hold steady through the storm.

These are the businesses that keep the lights on, feed families, and keep money flowing. On the TSX, these three stocks are built to survive any global disruption.

Map of Canada with city lights illuminated

Source: Getty Images

Fortis

Fortis (TSX:FTS) is about as stable as it gets. This utility company operates across Canada, the United States, and the Caribbean, delivering electricity and natural gas to millions. It isn’t flashy, but its business model is built on long-term contracts and regulated rates.

In its most recent earnings report for the first quarter of 2025, Fortis reported net earnings of $499 million, up from $437 million a year earlier. Revenue climbed to $3.34 billion, thanks to rate base growth and stable demand.

What makes Fortis especially appealing during turbulent times is its dividend. The TSX stock offers a yield of around 3.9% at a recent price of $64. It’s also increased its dividend every year for the past five decades. When the rest of the market is in flux, that kind of consistency is gold.

Loblaw

Then there’s Loblaw Companies (TSX:L), Canada’s largest food and pharmacy retailer. It owns Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, and Shoppers Drug Mart, giving it a strong presence in nearly every neighbourhood. During economic uncertainty, people still need groceries and medications. That makes Loblaw’s business model highly defensive.

In its latest earnings report, Loblaw brought in revenue of $14.13 billion and posted net earnings of $459 million, or $1.47 per share. It beat analyst expectations and continues to grow its pharmacy and digital operations.

The TSX stock trades at about $224 and offers a modest dividend of around 1%, with annual payouts of $2.26 per share. While not a high-yield play, Loblaw offers stability and modest income, supported by steady cash flow and an essential product lineup.

RBC

Finally, Royal Bank of Canada (TSX:RY) rounds out this trio. As one of the largest banks in the country, it plays a central role in the financial system. RBC handles everything from mortgages to wealth management to investment banking.

In the second quarter of 2025, Royal Bank reported adjusted earnings of $2.65 per share, up slightly from $2.59 a year earlier. Revenue came in at $13.55 billion, supported by strong performance in its capital markets division and steady growth in personal banking.

At a current price near $177, the TSX stock offers a dividend yield of around 3.5%. The TSX stock also launched a $35 million share-buyback program, signalling confidence in its future earnings. With a strong balance sheet and a history of navigating financial crises, Royal Bank stands tall when others stumble.

Bottom line

Together, Fortis, Loblaw, and Royal Bank offer a blend of regulated income, essential services, and financial strength. If you’re looking for TSX stocks that can help you sleep at night during global disruptions, this mix has you covered. Fortis provides consistent income from utilities, Loblaw offers defensive retail exposure, and Royal Bank brings dependable dividends and access to a broad economic base.

None of these stocks relies on high-risk growth strategies. These focus on what they do well: delivering electricity, feeding Canadians, and managing money. That’s what makes them such powerful tools in uncertain times. You won’t double your money overnight, but you will own parts of companies that generate steady returns through almost anything. From wars to interest rate hikes to pandemic recovery, these three have managed to adapt, grow, and keep rewarding shareholders.

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

More on Stocks for Beginners

shopper pushes cart through grocery store
Stocks for Beginners

3 Global Household Brands That Diversify a Canada-Heavy Portfolio

These three global consumer stocks can help Canadians reduce home bias and add exposure to sectors the TSX barely offers.

Read more »

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

A Practically Perfect TFSA Stock With a 10.3% Monthly Payout for March 2026

PGI.UN is a TFSA-friendly way to target high monthly income, but the payout only matters if the fund’s bond portfolio…

Read more »

Young Boy with Jet Pack Dreams of Flying
Energy Stocks

1 Canadian Energy Stock Set for Major Growth in 2026

Suncor is a straightforward 2026 energy play because efficiency gains and disciplined spending can translate into strong cash returns.

Read more »

man is enthralled with a movie in a theater
Stocks for Beginners

1 Canadian Stock Down 33% to Buy Immediately for Life

Cineplex looks like a beaten-down reopening-style stock where operating trends are improving before the market fully believes the turnaround.

Read more »

Printing canadian dollar bills on a print machine
Dividend Stocks

Transform Any TFSA Into a Cash-Generating Machine With Even $10,000

Turn $10,000 in a TFSA into a tax-free income engine by pairing a steady dividend grower with a higher-yield monthly…

Read more »

The TFSA is a powerful savings vehicle for Canadians who are saving for retirement.
Dividend Stocks

How to Convert $25,000 in TFSA Savings Into Reliable Cash Flow

Learn how to turn $25,000 in TFSA savings into a reliable cash flow using BNS, ENB, and PPL for steady,…

Read more »

energy oil gas
Stocks for Beginners

3 Global Industrials That Benefit When the Real Economy Keeps Moving

These three global industrial giants can help Canadians diversify beyond banks and energy, while tapping aerospace, automation, and electrification tailwinds.

Read more »

AI concept person in profile
Dividend Stocks

1 Magnificent Canadian Tech Stock Down 35% to Buy and Hold for Decades

Enghouse is a profitable Canadian software company that looks cheaper now, even as it keeps generating cash.

Read more »