Intense geopolitical tensions continue to weigh on global stock markets. The resource-heavy Toronto Stock Exchange, however, has remained resilient due to the commodity price boom. While many energy constituents have market-beating gains, two growth stocks outside the sector are well-positioned to soar higher in 2026 and beyond.
5N Plus (TSX:VNP) and Bird Construction (TSX:BDT), both TSX30 winners in 2025, have sustained their strong momentum. This pair is currently crushing the market with year-to-date gains of 112% and 89%, respectively, outpacing the TSX’s plus-7.5% return. The respective businesses benefit from exposure to high-growth secular trends.
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Surging demand
5N Plus is a key supplier of specialty semiconductors and performance materials. The $3.4 billion company serves clients in the solar and space sectors, where demand for its products is surging. At $37.60 per share, VNP’s total three-year return is plus-1,071%. Had you invested $5,000 in May 2023, it would be worth approximately $58.567 today.
In Q1 2026, revenue increased 33% year-over-year to $117.9 million, while net earnings climbed 85% to $17.8 million versus Q1 2025. 5N Plus CEO Gervais cites higher volumes in terrestrial renewable energy as the driver of earnings growth. He also notes better prices over inflation for space solar power and bismuth-based products.
Its President, Richard Perron, said, “As we continue to operate in a dynamic and elevated cost environment, we remain squarely focused on productivity initiatives to improve efficiency and on advancing our capacity expansion plans to support long-term growth.”
Also, the $434.4 million backlog at the quarter’s end is 336 days of annualized revenue, or 68 days higher than at March 31, 2025. The company hopes to successfully complete and realize its backlog in a timely manner, barring supply chain challenges or material disruption in the supply of raw materials.
Management expects demand for specialty semiconductors to remain strong as 5N Plus pursues its capacity expansion plan across its core end markets. Specialty semiconductors account for 73% of total revenues. Global sourcing and manufacturing capabilities (North America, Europe, and Asia) are among its competitive advantages. The focus on high-growth, high-value markets is an ongoing strategy, although the prevailing economic environment could increase operating costs.
In December 2025, VNP was officially added to the S&P/TSX Composite Index. Jacques said the inclusion broadens the stock’s visibility with global investors.
Top builder
Bird Construction ranked 17th among the 30 top Canadian stocks last year. It ended 2025 with a $5.1 billion backlog and a $6 billion pending backlog, driven by strong demand across its key strategic sectors. The combined backlog provides multi-year visibility. Moreover, the recurring revenue programs extend beyond 2026.
BDT trades at $53.50 per share, up 122.4% from a year ago. The potential return to prospective investors could be higher, including price appreciation and a 1.6% dividend. Its President and CEO, Teri McKibbon, expects to recognize 54% of the backlog over the next 12 months.
The $2.9 billion builder provides construction services to clients in the industrial, building, and infrastructure markets. For the period 2025–2027, management aims to prioritize stable, consistent monthly payouts to shareholders. Also, expect Bird Construction to play a major role in Canada’s nation-building strategy.
Stellar performance
5N Plus and Bird Construction could repeat their stellar performances in 2025. Both growth stocks are “strong buy” candidates for long-term investors, too.
