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.

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

person with spyglass looks at ocean horizon
Dividend Stocks

Canada and Europe Want New Energy and Trade Corridors: This Global TSX Stock Could Help Build Them

WSP can earn from the design and engineering behind new connections, with a backlog that predates the summit.

Read more »

A solar cell panel generates power in a country mountain landscape.
Dividend Stocks

A Deeper Canada-EU Alliance Will Need Private Capital: This Canadian Asset Manager Could Follow the Money

Brookfield Asset Management can earn from managing the capital behind investments, with its existing fundraising providing the stronger evidence.

Read more »

House models and one with REIT real estate investment trust.
Dividend Stocks

An 8.3% Monthly Dividend Stock – Earn $100 a Month on $14,520 Invested

BTB REIT's attractive 8.3% dividend yield and ongoing industrial property investments could help investors earn solid monthly passive income from…

Read more »

Group of people network together with connected devices
Dividend Stocks

Canada and Europe Are Building a Cybersecurity Alliance: This Canadian Software Stock Could Get a Second Look

OpenText sells tools for protecting information, giving it a practical link to closer digital cooperation without an assumed government award.

Read more »

worker carries stack of pizza boxes for delivery
Dividend Stocks

High Yield or Yield Trap? How to Think About Pizza Pizza Stock in Late 2026

Pizza Pizza pays a whopping 7.7% dividend yield. Is this stock a good buy for its big income or is…

Read more »

dairy cows graze on grass
Dividend Stocks

MTY Food Group Just Raised Its Dividend – Is It Too Late to Buy?

MTY is still working on a turnaround, but it pays well to wait with a 6.1% dividend. Investors might consider…

Read more »

holding coins in hand for the future
Dividend Stocks

2 Dividend Stocks to Hold for the Next 20 Years

These Canadian stocks have consistently paid regular dividends and increase their distributions year after year.

Read more »

the word REIT is an acronym for real estate investment trust
Dividend Stocks

Rate Hikes Are Back: What They Mean for REIT Investors

SmartCentres REIT (TSX:SRU.UN) and its massive yield still look like a relative bargain as rates weigh on REITs.

Read more »