The TSX30 recently hit headlines, and there were some pretty obvious winners in there. These were, in many cases, related to megatrends, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and technology enablers.
However, not all of the stocks listed may have been on an investor’s Bingo card. Some could even provide investors with a look at what to watch in 2026! So, let’s take a look at the winners, surprises, and a sleeper choice on the TSX today.
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Winner: Celestica
It’s clear that Celestica (TSX:CLS) was an all-star in 2025. The company saw shares surge this year thanks to its link to AI. The company creates tech hardware that supports the storage in data centres. It’s already been a premium growth name, but could potentially maintain that momentum into 2026.
This can be done, but the large surge is likely behind the tech stock. Even still, the second quarter and guidance were strong. Celestica reported revenue of US$2.89 billion, up 21% year over year. Its operating margin improved to about 9.4% versus 5.6% last year. What’s more, it purchased about 600,000 shares for US$40 million, showing there’s confidence in the future.
However, the demand for the stock could wane. CLS stock is exposed to capital expenditure cycles in cloud, networking, and data centre infrastructure. If spending slows, so will revenue. Tariffs and trade supplies are also a risk, along with execution in the growing segments. Plus, it’s a premium price, so perhaps a smaller stake would be warranted.
Surprise star: Aritzia
Then we have Aritzia (TSX:ATZ), a star that continues to surprise year after year. Just when we think that the retailer can’t possibly grow any further, it does! The company has been expanding through online and U.S. positioning. More than half of new revenue growth comes from the U.S. now. The high-demand U.S. fashion and retail environment gives the retail stock a huge lift, one that Canadian brands simply cannot touch.
This was seen during the most recent earnings report, though its next earnings are due quite soon. During the first quarter of 2026, Aritzia stock reported net income of $42.4 million, up a whopping 168% year over year! What’s more, gross profit increased 42.5% to $312.8 million. It wasn’t just sales either, with the retail stock citing “smart spending,” lower warehouse costs, and better inventory.
Now, again, the growth story is ongoing, but may be more in the rearview. Investors will know that retail and fashion can be volatile. What’s more, inventory and markdowns come with risk, as do currency and cross-border costs. Plus, it’s a capital-intensive area. So, while Aritzia stock has proven worthy of an investment, a smaller stake might be smart.
Sleeper: Stella Jones
Finally, we have sleeper stock Stella Jones (TSX:SJ). Not only is SJ stock growing, but there’s still more upside to come for the company. It may be less flashy, but the consistency of margins, transparent guidance, and defensive nature of the pressure-treated wood sector can’t be denied.
During its recent quarterly results, SJ stock reported sales were down, lowering its full-year guidance on revenue to be conservative. Though even with revenue falling, margins were stable, suggesting cost management and resilience in the company’s pricing and operations.
Now, those low expectations offer upside. The market isn’t pricing in strong growth, so a positive surprise can lead to more returns. What’s more, it’s an essential sector as a major provider of pressure-treated wood and infrastructure materials. For now, shares are down from 52-week highs, it holds a 1.55% dividend yield, and trades at just 13.44 times earnings with a 0.32 beta.
Bottom line
Altogether, these are three strong Canadian stocks right now. While two seem to have already been showing strength, SJ stock has more to come. The company has already surged in share price this year but has come back down to earth. That leaves a great opportunity for today’s investor — one you may not want to miss.
