A Year After the Rate Pivot – Here Are 2 Canadian Stocks I’d Still Buy Now

Even with lower rates, these two Canadian energy stocks look like strong buys.

| More on:
Key Points
  • Baytex Energy (TSX:BTE) is delivering strong cash flow and production growth while returning capital through buybacks and dividends.
  • Enbridge (TSX:ENB) offers a reliable 5%+ yield backed by strong earnings and a massive growth project pipeline.
  • Both energy stocks could benefit from strong demand and remain solid long-term picks despite changing rate conditions.

By keeping interest rates at lower levels, the Bank of Canada is signalling a clear pivot in monetary policy. This move was mainly focused on stimulating economic growth and providing relief to borrowers amidst rising inflationary pressures. As we reflect on this policy shift, it’s clear that certain market sectors on the TSX could benefit more than others.

One such sector is energy, which has seen renewed interest due to surging global demand for energy products and deteriorating supply, as well as the ongoing geopolitical crisis. In the energy sector, companies have also capitalized on strategic acquisitions and higher commodity prices. Currently among the top Canadian stocks from this sector are Baytex Energy (TSX:BTE) and Enbridge (TSX:ENB). Let me explain why.

A worker gives a business presentation.

Source: Getty Images

Baytex Energy stock

Baytex Energy, a Calgary-based energy firm, has seen its stock jump sharply of late. With a current stock price of $5.92 per share and a market cap of $4.4 billion, Baytex Energy has seen an 85% increase in its stock price over the last year. The company pays a quarterly dividend with a yield of 1.5%, providing investors with both growth potential and income.

Baytex stock’s recent performance has been fueled by its strategic divestiture of U.S. Eagle Ford assets, which netted $3 billion in proceeds. This move allowed the company to strengthen its financial position and focus on its Canadian operations. In 2025, Baytex Energy delivered a net loss due to one-time items related to the sale, but its operating performance remained strong. For example, the company’s cash flows from operations totaled $1.5 billion for the year, including $228 million in the fourth quarter alone.

Meanwhile, Baytex continues to focus on its Canadian operations, where it has a strong portfolio of assets. The company expects to achieve organic production growth of 3% to 5% in 2026, with exploration and development expenditures capped at $550 million to $625 million. Baytex Energy also plans to maintain its current dividend while prioritizing share buybacks, giving investors a balanced approach to capital returns.

Enbridge stock

Enbridge, a Calgary-based energy infrastructure giant, has also been a strong performer in the last year. With a current stock price of $75.40 per share and a market cap of $164.5 billion, ENB has seen a 17% increase in its stock price over the last year. The company pays a quarterly dividend with a yield of 5.2%, making it an attractive option for long-term income investors.

Enbridge has a diversified portfolio of energy infrastructure assets, which include liquids pipelines, gas transmission, gas distribution and storage, and renewable power generation.

In 2025, the company reported record financial results, with full-year earnings attributable to common shareholders reaching $7.1 billion, up sharply from $5.1 billion in 2024. Also, its adjusted earnings for the year rose 9% YoY (year-over-year) to $6.6 billion, while its adjusted EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) hit $20 billion, up 7% YoY.

Enbridge has been disciplined in its capital allocation, as it invested $5 billion in organic growth projects in 2025. These investments include its Mainline Optimization Phase 1 (MLO1) project, which is expected to add 150 kbpd (thousand barrels per day) to the Mainline system and 100 kbpd to the Flanagan South Pipeline by 2027.

Also, its long-term growth initiatives are focused on Enbridge’s diversified portfolio of energy infrastructure assets. The company expects to place $8 billion of projects into service in 2026, including the MLO1 project and several renewable power projects. In addition, Enbridge has a secured growth backlog of $39 billion, giving investors visibility into its future earnings growth.

Fool contributor Jitendra Parashar has positions in Enbridge. The Motley Fool recommends Enbridge. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

More on Energy Stocks

The RRSP (Canadian Registered Retirement Savings Plan) is a smart way to save and invest for the future
Energy Stocks

Here’s the Average TFSA and RRSP for a 40-Year-Old in Canada

Building wealth during your 40s starts with owning high-quality dividend stocks like this top blue-chip Canadian stock.

Read more »

Canada national flag waving in wind on clear day
Energy Stocks

Canadians: Here’s How Much You’ll Likely Need in Your TFSA to Retire

Enbridge (TSX:ENB) stock could be a huge winner for long-term retirees.

Read more »

oil pumps at sunset
Energy Stocks

Here’s Where Enbridge Stock Could Be Headed in the Next 3 Years

Enbridge is a blue-chip TSX dividend stock that offers you a yield of more than 5% in June 2026.

Read more »

oil pump jack under night sky
Energy Stocks

1 Canadian Dividend Stock Off 10% to Buy and Hold Forever

While this top Canadian dividend stock pulls back from its highs and offers a yield above 6.5% again, it's easily…

Read more »

chart reflected in eyeglass lenses
Energy Stocks

2 Canadian Dividends Stocks Worth Snapping Up on Any Dips

These stocks should be solid picks on the next market correction.

Read more »

woman considering the future
Energy Stocks

Have $21,000 in TFSA Room? Here’s a Dividend Stock Worth Considering

Suncor Energy (TSX:SU) looks like a great bet for TFSA investors looking for value and dividends.

Read more »

Piggy bank with word TFSA for tax-free savings accounts.
Energy Stocks

The Ideal TFSA Stock: A 5% Yield Paying Constant Cash

This Canadian stock offers a 5% yield and has a solid history of consistent cash payments for decades, making it…

Read more »

Trans Alaska Pipeline with Autumn Colors
Energy Stocks

The One Canadian Stock I’d Keep in My TFSA Indefinitely

Here's why this reliable and consistent Canadian stock is the perfect long-term investment to own in your TFSA forever.

Read more »