The S&P/TSX Composite Index shattered multiple records this year, reaching a historic closing high of 31,755.80 on December 19, 2025. Yet, even after this incredible run, opportunities remain for investors. A $2,000 investment can buy top-performing stocks at lower share prices. You can build a portfolio around dividend and growth stocks or both.
High-octane growth
5N Plus (TSX:VNP) is a solid choice for growth investors. The basic materials stock ranked seventh in the 2025 TSX30, an annual ranking of the 30 top-performing Canadian stocks. At $17.86 per share, the year-to-date gain is 142%, while the three-year positive return is 603.15%. Had you invested $2,000 at year-end 2024, your money would be worth $4,840.11 today.
The $1.6 billion producer of specialty semiconductors and performance materials recently smashed earnings expectations and reported a 10-year revenue high. In the third quarter (Q3) of 2025, revenues and net earnings rose 33% and 185% year over year, respectively, to US$104.9 billion and US$18.2 million.
Richard Perron, president and chief financial officer of 5N+, said, “The increase in revenue, earnings, and margins this quarter reflects the strong momentum and acceleration in demand we have experienced since the beginning of the year from the terrestrial renewable energy and space solar power sectors.”
The business outlook is very favourable, given the high demand for specialty semiconductors from the terrestrial renewable energy and space solar power markets. 5N Plus expects to maintain its position as the leading supplier of ultra-high-purity, high-quality products.
Income and growth
CES Energy Solutions (TSX:CEU) is also a niche player like 5N Plus. This $2.6 billion provides specialized, mission-critical chemical solutions for oil and gas companies. At $13.25 per share, current investors enjoy a 25.6% market-beating return thus far in 2025 on top of a 1.39% dividend. This mid-cap energy stock is a TSX30 member, ranked fourth in 2024.
Industry experts are bullish on CES’s growth prospects due to the increasing technical complexity of oil drilling. They expect the demand for advanced chemicals as oil wells get deeper and longer. Moreover, minor fluctuations in oil prices will not affect this demand.
The tailwinds for CES are the demand trends of developing countries and global demand requirements to support eventual energy transition initiatives. Additionally, management expects sustained constructive end markets and increased service intensity.
Cash-flow play
Cogeco Communications (TSX:CCA) is not a dividend payer, but it is an excellent option for income seekers. At $65.79 per share (+3.55% year to date), the dividend offer is 6%. The $2.77 billion company provides telecommunications services in Canada and the United States. Remember, the business is essential, stable, and cash flow-heavy.
In fiscal 2025 (12 months ending August 31, 2025), revenue and profit declined 2.2% and 3.2%, respectively, to $2.9 billion and $341.8 million compared to fiscal 2024. However, free cash flow increased 8.6% year over year to $517.2 million. According to its board chairman, Louis Audet, it was a year of decisive action and meaningful progress for Cogeco Communications.
The telco completed the first year of its three-year transformation program, which aims to deliver a stronger Cogeco by fiscal 2027.
Deep value
5N Plus, CES Energy, and Cogeco Communications are price-friendly Canadian stocks offering deep value. A $2,000 investment can reward you with recurring income or capital growth, depending on your investment strategy.
