Momentum Is High, and These 3 Stocks Could Benefit the Most in 2026

Let’s dive into three of the best high-momentum growth stocks Canada has to offer, and why now is a great time to consider adding to these names.

| More on:
Key Points
  • Canadian equity markets outperformed in 2025, driven by a resource-rich economy and strong returns from high-growth stocks like Shopify, Celestica, and Aritzia.
  • Shopify's international expansion, Celestica's AI investment, and Aritzia's e-commerce growth position them well for continued momentum and potential gains in 2026.

For investors who stuck with equity markets through 2025, it was very likely a positive year. Indeed, for Canadian investors, the returns we saw last year were remarkable, leading many of the developed markets around the world in terms of returns.

Now, much of this narrative has to do with the country’s resource-rich economy. That’s going to provide a tailwind into 2026, so long as this commodity bull market continues.

That said, there are other high growth stocks I think are worth considering, both in terms of their near-term momentum, as well as their long-term capital appreciation upside potential. Let’s dive in!

leader pulls ahead of the pack during bike race

Source: Getty Images

Shopify

Shopify’s (TSX:SHOP) stock price performance in recent years has been notable. After falling to a low of around $35 per share in 2022, shares of SHOP stock have since rebounded to nearly the $200 level. Last year, shares of SHOP stock moved toward a new all-time high around the $250 level.

This rally is one I think has legs and could certainly continue in 2026. Much of that has to do with how robust e-commerce spending has been in recent quarters. Despite concerns about a weakening jobs market, Shopify’s gross profit surged 24% year-over-year this past quarter, driven by solid international expansion and overall GMV growth many analysts and investors didn’t see coming.

With the company investing heavily in AI-driven merchant tools and this international expansion expected to drive continued growth in new (higher-growth) markets around the world, Shopify is one of those unique bets trading near all-time highs I think could have plenty of juice left for another rally higher.

In my view, this recent dip into February is one worth buying. That is, for those with a long-term investing time horizon.

Celestica

Another top high-momentum growth stock that’s seen impressive performance of late is Celestica (TSX:CLS).

Shares of the Canada-based tech company have rocketed roughly 400% higher over the past four years, as investment in leading AI beneficiaries continues to propel high-quality operators like Celestica higher.

The company’s investments in its own AI connectivity and cloud solutions business has led to solid growth, with revenue surging 43% on a year-over-year basis this past quarter. Impressively, the company’s hardware platform solutions business grew at a nearly 70% clip over the same timeframe.

As cloud spending continues to benefit directly from hyperscaler AI data spend, Celestica’s visible multi-year earnings growth and its rising margins position the company well to continue to grow in a highly profitable way for long-term investors looking for the best opportunities in a sector that’s becoming bifurcated by companies that make money and those that don’t.

Aritzia

This last pick on this list is a bit more speculative, but it’s one I find intriguing right now. Shares of Aritzia (TSX:ATZ) stock have been on an absolute tear over the course of the past year, more than quadrupling over this timeframe.

This move has effectively turned Aritzia into one of Canada’s quietest but most effective momentum stories over the course of the past year.

Recent results indicate that Aritzia is returning to growth, with its outlook re-accelerating higher in recent quarters despite concerns about a strapped retail consumer. Importantly, the company has seen its productivity increase dramatically thanks to a robust e-commerce offering, and a growing footprint in the U.S. has helped Aritzia provide investors with a growth story worth buying into.

With the company’s revenue expected to grow at a 16% clip (and EPS growing at around 28%) in the year to come, Aritzia stock has been upgraded by a number of analysts, for good reason. We’ll have to see if this momentum can continue, but for now, I have to include ATZ stock as an honourable mention.

Fool contributor Chris MacDonald has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Aritzia and Shopify. The Motley Fool recommends Celestica. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Investing

Investor reading the newspaper
Dividend Stocks

BCE’s Dividend Has Been Getting a Lot of Attention: Here’s Why

Long-term investors could investigate BCE as an income play with multi-year turnaround potential.

Read more »

data analyze research
Dividend Stocks

TFSA at 60: 2 Dividend Stocks to Help Any Canadian Catch Up

Build a stronger TFSA at 60 with two dependable Canadian dividend stocks offering income, stability, and long-term growth potential.

Read more »

bank of canada governor tiff macklem
Bank Stocks

The Bank of Canada Just Spoke: 2 Canadian Stocks I’d Buy Before Rates Fall Further

With Canadians carrying $1.80 of debt for every after-tax dollar earned, interest rates could shape both borrowers and TSX returns.

Read more »

senior man and woman stretch their legs on yoga mats outside
Retirement

Reaching Retirement: Here’s the Typical TFSA Balance for Canadians Approaching 60

You can build a substantial TFSA as a part of your retirement planning strategy. Start by maximizing your TFSA contributions.

Read more »

man touches brain to show a good idea
Dividend Stocks

2 Dividend Stocks That Look Built for the Rate Pause

These high-quality dividend stocks offer attractive yields, dependable income, and protection against inflation.

Read more »

dividends grow over time
Dividend Stocks

A Value Stock With a Dividend Yield Over 6% to Buy Near 52-Week Lows

Explore the current landscape of dividend stocks and why they are influenced by rising interest rates and financial leverage.

Read more »

people relax on mountain ledge
Dividend Stocks

How to Use Your TFSA to Average $1,500 per Year in Tax-Free Passive Income

These two Canadian dividend stocks could boost your passive income.

Read more »

drinker sniffs wine in a glass
Energy Stocks

What the Average Canadian TFSA Balance Looks Like at 70

Many Canadians reach 70 with a solid TFSA balance. The next step is choosing investments that can keep delivering income…

Read more »