Despite firm gold and silver prices, Canadian stocks traded on a mixed note on Friday as a stronger-than-expected domestic jobs report raised concerns about the Bank of Canada’s next policy move, while corporate earnings painted a varied picture across sectors. The S&P/TSX Composite Index finished the day up 44 points to 29,912, but ended the week with a 1.2% loss to mark its second consecutive weekly decline.
Despite heavy declines in real estate and technology stocks, continued buying in commodity-linked and defensive sectors, such as utilities and consumer staples, helped cushion the broader market.
Top TSX Composite movers and active stocks
Shares of Algonquin Power & Utilities (TSX:AQN) climbed nearly 8% to $8.72 per share, making it one of the top-performing TSX stocks for the day. This rally in AQN stock came after the Oakville-based utility firm posted solid third-quarter results and highlighted its strategic focus on becoming a pure-play regulated utility.
In the latest quarter, Algonquin’s regulated services group delivered a 61% year-over-year earnings jump with the help of approved rate hikes, favourable weather, and lower operating costs. The company also named a new chief financial officer, Robert Stefani, reflecting its continued focus on transformation. After the recent rally, AQN stock has risen nearly 37% so far in 2025.
Curaleaf Holdings, Sprott, and Perpetua Resources were also among the day’s top gainers on the Toronto Stock Exchange, with each rising by at least 6.2%.
Altus Group, Brookfield Business Partners, ARC Resources, and Celestica slid by more than 6% each, making them the session’s worst-performing TSX stocks.
Based on their daily trade volume, Enbridge, B2Gold, ARC Resources, Canadian Natural Resources, and Baytex Energy were the five most active stocks on the exchange.
TSX today
Metal prices across the board rose sharply in early Monday trading, setting the stage for a higher opening for the TSX mining stocks today.
While no major economic releases are due this morning, Canadian investors will continue to closely monitor macroeconomic developments, along with corporate earnings.
Many TSX-listed companies, including InterRent Real Estate Investment Trust, MEG Energy, Premium Brands, K92 Mining, and Barrick Mining, will announce their latest quarterly financial results today, which could keep their stocks active throughout the session.