Where I’d Put $10,000 in Canadian Stocks Right Now

A $10,000 market position spread across three reliable dividend payers is a strategic shield against ongoing volatility.

| More on:
Key Points
  • TSX up 4.44% YTD despite March volatility, with seven of 11 sectors positive and energy leading the gains.
  • Put $10,000 into resilient Canadian names—BMO for dividend longevity, Rogers for yield stability and growth potential, and Cenovus as an energy hedge benefiting from higher oil.
  • That mix offers dividend stability, sustainable yield growth, and commodity exposure to help navigate ongoing geopolitical-driven market uncertainty.

The TSX started at a record high in March 2026, but it has been a wild ride since due to significant geopolitical instability Nonetheless, Canada’s primary stock market is still up 4.4% year-to-date, with seven of 11 primary sectors, led by energy, in positive territory.

If I had $10,000 to invest right now, I’d put it in Canadian stocks that have displayed resilience and consistent strength amid a directionless market.

man in suit looks at a computer with an anxious expression

Source: Getty Images

Built to last

The Bank of Montreal (TSX:BMO) tops my list for dividend stability. Canada’s oldest financial institution and third-largest bank is also the TSX’s dividend pioneer. BMO’s dividend track record is 196 years. At $192.99 per share (+9.22% year-to-date), the reliable dividend yield is 3.4%.

In Q1 fiscal 2026 (three months ending January 31, 2026), net income increased 16% to $2.5 billion versus Q1 fiscal 2026. Revenue reached $9.8 billion during the quarter.

According to its CEO, Darryl White, BMO achieved record revenue across all operating segments in the first quarter. “Credit is well-managed and in line with our expectations,” White added. The provision for credit losses (PCL) declined 26.2% year-over-year to $746 million.

BMO is built to last, as evidenced by its dividend longevity. The acquisition of the Bank of the West significantly expanded its U.S. footprint and should drive strategic growth. The Big Bank acquired Burgundy Asset Management in November 2025 to bolster the Wealth Management operating segment.

Yield stability

Rogers Communications (TSX:RCI.B) offers yield stability and growth potential. At $53.66 per share, the trailing one-year price return is plus-38.3%, far better than BCE’s (+5.45%) and better than TELUS’ (-11.53%). Given the low payout ratio of 15.7%, the 3.7% dividend yield is safe and sustainable.

The $29.4 billion communications, sports, and entertainment company enjoys a competitive edge with its coast-to-coast fibre and 5G network. Its industry-leading 67% wireless margin is a core strength. While its media and sports assets, notably Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment (MLSE), are growth engines and brand builders. These trophy assets reported a 47% revenue growth last year.

Rogers’ net income in 2025 was $6.9 billion compared to $1.7 billion in 2024. The nearly 300% jump was due to revaluation of its existing ownership at current market prices following the acquisition of the remaining stake in MLSE. More importantly, total debt for the year decreased by $1 billion to $46.6 billion.

Energy hedge

The war in Iran benefits major energy producers like Canada, though it is a headwind for net energy importers in Asia and Europe. Cenovus Energy (TSX:CVE) is among the beneficiaries of the current oil volatility. The large-cap stock has advanced 7.2% in the last 10 trading days, raising its year-to-date gain to 38.6%. CVE trades at $32.18 per share and pays a 2.6% dividend (36.3% payout ratio).

This $57.8 billion integrated oil and natural gas company boosted its cash flow and production capacity with the strategic acquisition of MEG Energy in November 2025. Furthermore, Cenovus can fully fund its sustaining capital at US$45 per barrel (break-even oil price). The current WTI crude price is US$87.53 per barrel.

Navigate the uncertainty

Extreme market volatility will persist if the war doesn’t end soon. BMO, Rogers Communications, and Cenovus Energy are the Canadian stocks to buy with $10,000 today. You’d have a balanced approach to navigating this uncertainty.

Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Rogers Communications and TELUS. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Dividend Stocks

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

My 3 Favourite Canadian Stocks for Passive Income

These three stocks offer a simple way to build reliable passive income over time.

Read more »

woman gazes forward out window to future
Dividend Stocks

How to Create Your Own Pension With Dividend Stocks

Find out important information about pensions, focusing on the Canada Pension Plan and how it impacts your retirement.

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 »

woman considering the future
Dividend Stocks

5 Canadian Stocks Built for Buy-and-Hold Investors

These TSX dividend stars have the balance sheet strength to ride out market turbulence.

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 »

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 »

Canadian dollars in a magnifying glass
Dividend Stocks

BCE’s Dividend Is Under the Microscope – Here’s What I See

BCE (TSX:BCE) stock may have reduced its dividend, but it's in better shape today and could be on the path…

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 »