Are you scouting for dividend stocks outside the traditional staples for passive income in 2026 and beyond? AltaGas (TSX:ALA) deserves serious consideration. Its rising earnings and accelerating growth rates indicate a quality business amid heightened market volatility. This energy-utility hybrid qualifies as a buy-and-hold stock for the next 10 years.

ALA outperforms the broad market year to date, up 14.3% versus +0.54%. The current share price is $47.50, with a dividend yield of 2.79%. Its hybrid profile stems from a powerful twin-engine: Utilities and Midstream.

Financial performance 

AltaGas is coming from a record-breaking year. In the 12 months ending December 31, 2025, revenue and net income applicable to common shares increased 2% and 29% year over year to $12.7 billion and $747 million, respectively. Its president and CEO, Vern Yu, said, “2025 was a year of strong execution and disciplined delivery for AltaGas.”

Yu noted the strong performance across the Utilities and Midstream businesses, resulting in a 5% increase in normalized earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) to $1.9 billion compared with 2024. The diversified platform operates long-life energy infrastructure assets that ensure resilient, growing shareholder value.

Dividend sustainability and growth

In December 2025, the $15 billion energy infrastructure company announced a 6% dividend increase, the sixth consecutive increase in as many years. Its compound annual growth rate (CAGR) guidance on is 5% to 7% through 2030. Notably, the payout ratio of 50% to 60% of normalized earnings implies dividend sustainability. The organic cash flow supports the dividend guidance.

Moreover, management aims to deliver resilient, growing normalized EBITDA and earnings per share (EPS) while maintaining financial leverage. This strategy supports steady dividend growth and leaves ample room for capital appreciation for long-term investors.

Export advantage

AltaGas is constructing the Ridley Island Energy Export Facility (REEF), which is expected to be operational by year-end 2026. In phase one, the large-scale liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and bulk liquids export terminal will export propane and butane to global markets.

REEF and its West Coast shipping advantage will help AltaGas establish a dominant position in Asian markets. The volume of propane and butane exports to Asia is projected to grow 40% to 50% between now and 2040. Phase one of the multi-stage project will generate an estimated $278 million for the federal and provincial governments. REEF will export bulk liquids, ethane and other products after phase two development.

So far, net income is rising every year since 2023. The same is true for dividend growth. More importantly, the business never slows. Historically, when one engine slows, the other accelerates. For 2026, AltaGas plans to fund the approximately $1.6 billion capital program with internally generated cash flows and debt. It will allocate 69% and 27% of the total to Utilities and Midstream. The rest will go to other business concerns.

Next-gen dividend elite

AltaGas could join the ranks of TSX dividend elites such as Enbridge, Toronto-Dominion Bank, and Fortis. The compelling reasons to invest are: stable earnings, long-term organic growth, and growing dividends. ALA is a potential anchor stock for sure.

The post 1 Top Dividend Stock to Buy and Hold for 10 Years appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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

The TSX is experiencing greater volatility in 2026 than in 2025 amid tariff-driven headwinds. After posting an all-time high record close of 34,541.30 on March 2, Canada’s main stock index lost steam, breaking the momentum carried over from a banner year. A military conflict heightens market unpredictability more than trade disputes.

While the broad market is down 1.25% year-to-date (YTD) after a long stretch in positive territory, select stocks continue to outperform amid the war anxiety. Total Energy Services (TSX:TOT), Headwater Exploration (TSX:HWX), and Trican Well Service (TSX:TCW) are sending powerful buy signals with their market-beating returns.

Momentum leader

Energy (+37.5% year to date, or YTD) is the top-performing sector thus far in 2026, while Total Energy Services (+48% YTD) is the momentum leader. This 803.5 million energy services company, through its business units, provide equipment and various services to the domestic and international marketplace. The continued high demand for compression and process equipment in North America is a growth driver.

Management maintains a favourable business following record results last year and a strong financial position entering 2026. The positive working capital at year-end was $108 million of positive working capital. Also, for the first time since a major acquisition in 2017, cash exceeded bank debt ($49.6 million versus $4.6 million).

The full-year 2025 results are reflected in the stock’s performance. Revenue and net income increased 17% and 22% to $1.1 billion and $74.3 million compared with 2024. Total Energy intends to finance its Board-approved 2026 capital budget of $87.4 million with cash on hand and cash flow.  

TOT trades at $22.05 per share and pays a 2.18% dividend. The quarterly payouts have been consistent since Q1 2010.

Sustainable asset base

Like Total Energy Services, Headwater Exploration is a stable energy play in 2026. At $12.79 per share, the mid-cap stock is up 36.5% YTD. If you invest today, HWX pays an attractive 3.44% dividend. The $3 billion company is debt-free and boasts a sustainable asset base with growing free cash flow (FCF), even at flat oil prices or when West Texas Intermediate oil prices fluctuate.

In 2025, the average production reached a record 22,776 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), an 12% year-over-year increase. Net income, however, declined 19% to $153.2 million versus 2024. Still, Headwater commits to maximizing shareholder returns by balancing growth and organic expansion.

Critical services

Trican Well Service is worthy of consideration for its critical role in Western Canada’s oil and gas service industry. The $1.55 billion provider of well-servicing equipment and solutions is also the country’s largest pressure pumping service company.

In Q4 2025, Trican’s revenue rose 17% year over year to $322.7 million, notwithstanding the challenging oil pricing environment in the back half of 2025. For the full year, net income increased 2% to $112.2 million. Performance-wise, TCW feels no price pressure. At $7.35 per share, current investors enjoy a +24.7% market-beating return on top of the 2.93% dividend.

Buy-and-hold candidates

Total Energy Services, Headwater Exploration, and Trican Well Service have so far shown resilience against geopolitical shocks in 2026. All three stand out as buy-and-hold candidates for dividend stability and defensive pricing power.

The post 3 Stocks to Buy and Hold for 2026 and Beyond appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Total Energy Services. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

The TSX hit a record closing early this month, but has since blown hot and cold depending on geopolitical headlines. After posting its lowest closing level in three months on March 20, the index staged a major comeback on the 23rd. Investors hope a firm diplomatic de-escalation and a return to global oil supply normalcy comes soon to sustain the recovery.

As of this writing, Canada’s main stock market is up 0.54% year-to-date, with 4 of 11 primary sectors in positive territory. The bright spot is that this war-triggered volatility has opened buying opportunities.

If you have $1,000 to invest, WELL Health Technologies (TSX:WELL) and CES Energy Solutions (TSX:CEU) are two reasonably cheap stocks to buy right now. The former has strong growth potential, while the latter boasts strong cash flow. This pair can capture the upside while providing a buffer against volatility.

Evolving growth story

WELL Health is Canada’s largest owner and operator of outpatient medical clinics. The $957 million practitioner-focused, digital-first healthcare company has developed a comprehensive end-to-end healthcare system that benefits both healthcare providers and patients.

The healthcare stock rose to prominence during the 2020 pandemic, but remains an evolving growth story. WELL has fallen 29% over the past year and currently trades at $3.73 per share (-6.5% year-to-date). However, high-velocity growth is on the horizon, as evidenced by the record revenue in 2025. The 52-week high is $6.08.

In the 12 months ending December 31, 2025, annual revenue rose 52% year-over-year to a record $1.4 billion. Its Chairman and CEO, Hamed Shahbazi, said, “2025 was a defining year for WELL.” Adjusted net income climbed 1,481% to $126.5 million versus 2024, while operating free cash flow (FCF) increased 19% to $58.2 million from a year ago.

According to Shahbazi, WELL is building the infrastructure for a healthier Canada. “With the expansion of our credit facility and the largest acquisition pipeline in our history, we are well-positioned to accelerate growth in our highest-return market while unlocking value from our US portfolio,” he added.

Management’s aggressive acquisition strategy and the integration of AI-driven clinical tools will help achieve growth targets in 2026. The active acquisition pipeline focuses on higher-margin primary care and diagnostics assets. For this year, the annual revenue guidance is between $1.55 billion and $1.65 billion.  

Cash generator

CES Energy Solutions is a vital player in North America’s Oil & Gas Equipment & Services industry. The $3.9 billion company provides technically advanced consumable chemical solutions across the oilfield lifecycle, from drilling and completion to production. This mid-cap stock is not mispriced, though dirt-cheap relative to its earnings growth.

At $18.39 per share, CEU is up nearly 50% year-to-date. Current investors also partake in the modest 0.98% dividend. Because of the significant FCF in Q4 2025, the Board recently approved a 29% dividend hike. In the three months ending December 31, 2025, net income and FCF increased 63% and 126% year-over-year, respectively, to $68.3 million and $78.4 million.

The capital-light, asset-light, and high-service intensity business model is a competitive advantage. Expect CES Energy Solutions to continue generating resilient revenue streams and recurring cash flows, notwithstanding short-term swings in drilling activities.

Smart approach  

A $1,000 investment split equally between WELL Health and CES Energy Solutions is a smart approach to the current environment. It combines a growth engine and a cash flow machine while waiting for the market to normalize.

The post 2 Dirt Cheap Stocks to Buy With $1,000 Right Now appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends CES Energy Solutions. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Safety is a primary consideration for the average Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) investor’s long-term strategy, especially within the stock market. Since no investment is entirely risk-free, a loss of capital results in a permanent loss of TFSA contribution room.

Diversification is the key to countering market volatility and preventing a loss from a single stock. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are ideal for risk-averse investors, including TFSA users. This asset class offers a higher floor of safety than relying on a single company’s share performance.

The prominent buy-and-hold options for the TFSA are iShares TSX High Dividend ETF (TSX:XEI), Vanguard Canadian High Dividend ETF (TSX:VDY), and BMO Equal Weight Banks ETF (TSX:ZEB). By holding a ‘basket’ of stocks or a combination of these funds, you’d have a balance of yield and stability.

Foundational holding

BlackRock designed the iShares TSX High Dividend ETF to be a foundational holding for long-term investors. Like most Canadians ETFs, XEI is a qualified investment in a TFSA. It replicates the performance of the S&P/TSX Composite High Dividend Index. The monthly income it generates has no tax implications.

As of March 20, 2026, XEI has 75 stock holdings, ranging from small- to large-cap TSX-listed stocks. All 11 primary sectors are represented, but with heavier exposure to energy (31%), financial (29%), and utility (13%) sectors. Oil bellwether Suncor Energy is the top holding.

TSX dividend kings Canadian Utilities and Fortis are among the holdings of the diversified portfolio. Performance-wise, XEI is relatively stable. At $35.70 per unit, the year-to-date gain is 11%. The distribution yield is 3.7%. Given the monthly payout frequency, tax-free compounding is faster.

Passive funds management

Vanguard Canadian High Dividend ETF tracks the performance of the FTSE Canada High Dividend Yield Index. VDY currently holds 56 stocks, with no positions in the healthcare and real estate sectors. The exposure is heaviest on dividend-paying financial and energy stocks.

The Royal Bank of Canada and Toronto Dominion Bank, Canada’s two largest companies by market cap, are the fund’s top holdings. At $65.30 per unit, you can partake in the 3.6% dividend. Again, the monthly payout is the ETF’s distinct advantage.

Bedrock of stability

BMO Equal Weight Banks ETF is sector-specific, with exposure to only Canada’s Big Six banks. While the risk rating is medium to high, this ETF represents a bedrock of stability. Dividend longevity is the compelling reason why Big Bank stocks are staples in an investment portfolio.

According to BMO Global Asset Management, the fund’s manager, each security in this Index is allocated an equal weight rather than market capitalization. Equal weighting promotes balanced, stable growth. It also minimizes the impact of an underperforming Big Bank stock. ZEB trades at $57.51 per unit, with a yield of 3.1%. The distribution frequency is monthly.

Keep the “forever” mindset

TFSA investors can adopt a “forever” mindset with XEI, VDY, or ZEB as core holdings. These Canadian ETFs have been trading on the TSX for 14 years or more, delivering resilient returns since inception and across various market cycles. Their consistent track record of monthly dividend payments lends confidence to hold them for the long term.

The post 3 Canadian ETFs to Buy and Hold Forever in Your TFSA appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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

Many top Canadian stocks are not necessarily expensive. A seed capital of $2,000 is just right to build a high-performance, diversified stock portfolio. There are budget-friendly opportunities in the TSX that you can put your measly fund to work. Strong buys right now are Aritzia (TSX:ATZ), Bird Construction (TSX:BDT), and Chemtrade Logistics Fund (TSX:CHE.UN).

A: High-growth candidate

Aritzia was among the winningest stocks in 2025.  Canada’s fashion powerhouse rewarded investors with a mouth-watering return of +120% last year. The $13 billion retail stock, known for its “Everyday Luxury” and stylish women’s clothing, continues to deliver strong financial performance.

ATZ trades at $112.53 per share and carries a “buy” to “strong buy” rating. Analysts’ 12-month average price target is $151.54 (a potential 35% upside). The bullish sentiment stems from its record net revenue in Q3 fiscal 2026. Its CEO, Jennifer Wong, said, “Our performance was fueled by unparalleled demand for our Everyday Luxury offering.”

In the three months ending November 30, 2025, net revenue and net income increased 43% and 88% to $1.04 billion and $138.9 million. Wong added that geographic expansion, digital growth, and increased brand awareness are Aritzia’s three strategic growth levers.

The lady CEO also expressed confidence in meeting the company’s long-term goals and delivering profitable growth. Aritzia pays zero dividend, but is a pure capital accelerator.

B: Industrial momentum

Bird Construction has built a strong industrial momentum following its solid full-year 2025 financial results. Its president and CEO, Teri McKibbon, said, “Bird remains strongly positioned for Canada’s long‑duration nation‑building investment cycle.”

While net income declined 53% year over year to $47.4 billion, the combined backlog and pending backlog totalled $11 billion at year-end. Performance-wise, BDT is up 27.6% year to date, beating the broad market (+3.84%). At $36.23 per share, the dividend yield is 2.32%.

According to McKibbon, the tailwinds include energy projects such as liquefied natural gas (LNG) and nuclear, as well as infrastructure renewal in the defence, healthcare, trade, and transportation sectors. He added that with the record liquidity and a strong balance sheet, Bird is prepared for large-scale capital investment projects. The company will achieve growth and realize profitability enhancement in 2026 and 2027.

C: Income compounder

Chemtrade Logistics provides industrial chemical products and services to customers in North America and international markets. The $1.75 billion company derive revenues from strategic business segments: Sulphur & Water Chemicals (SWC) and Electrochemicals (EC).

CHE.UN is an income compounder owing to its monthly dividends. Moreover, it hasn’t missed a payout since August 2001. If you invest today, the share price is $15.58, while the yield is a hefty 4.62%. You can reinvest the dividends 12 times a year instead of the usual four (quarterly).

The diversified portfolio operating in recession-resistant markets is a competitive advantage. In 2025, total revenue and net earnings rose 11.8% and 10% year-over-year to $1.9 billion and $139.4 million. Notably, the $507.4 million Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) were Chemtrade’s highest in a year since its inception.

Its CEO, Scott Rook, said Chemtrade will monitor costs and price increases in 2026. Nonetheless, the $485 million to $525 million Adjusted EBITDA guidance for the year is a record level.

Resilient machine  

Your $2,000 is small in absolute amount, but it can create a resilient machine for income generation and capital growth. The ABC portfolio can weather market shifts in 2026.

The post Top Canadian Stocks to Buy Right Now With $2,000 appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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

Many investors are in the market to build lasting wealth. If you’re investing in the current environment, a prudent strategy is to pick companies with stable earnings along with a visible growth runway.

In the wake of geopolitical volatility in 2026, taking positions in TELUS (TSX:T) and MDA Space (TSX:MDA) offers a path to long-term growth. The former is a defensive income play, while the latter boasts unstoppable upward momentum, driven by the fast-growing space economy. By holding both, you have an anchor and a rocket in your portfolio.  

The anchor

TELUS is one of Canada’s ‘Big Three’ telecom players, second to BCE in market capitalization. This $28.6 billion company is repositioning to become a global technology powerhouse. By cutting its capital expenditure by 10% to $2.3 billion, free cash flow (FCF) growth is the focus in 2026. The consolidated FCF target is approximately $2.5 billion.

At $18.38 per share, the 5G stock is up nearly 4% year-to-date. The dividend yield is a juicy 9.2%. Doug French, Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer of TELUS, said, “As part of our capital allocation strategy and focus on deleveraging, we are maintaining our dividend at the current level.”

The financial highlight in 2025 was the nearly 10% year-over-year increase in net income to $797 million. Alongside this bottom-line growth, there was a record $2.2 billion in FCF. TELUS generates consistent, recurring revenue from essential internet and wireless services even during economic downturns.

Its outgoing President and CEO, Darren Entwistle, notes the record 287,000 connected device net additions in Q4 2025. TELUS also surpassed one million combined mobility and fixed customer additions for the fourth consecutive year.

TELUS Technology Solutions, one of two main business divisions, is the connectivity provider (wireless, wireline, and security services). The second, TELUS Health operates a comprehensive digital health platform. Collectively, they generate billions.

The acquisition of TELUS International (100%), now TELUS Digital, in late October 2025, aims to enhance its enterprise-wide artificial intelligence (AI) and data capabilities. It would also accelerate the integration of world-leading digital customer experience solutions. Today, each business segment has solid growth potential.

The rocket

MDA Space could see explosive growth in 2026 and beyond. On March 12, 2026, the $5.4 billion Brampton-based satellite company officially cross-listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Its CEO, Mike Greenley, said, “We have strong growth, strong persistent profitability, strong cash generation.”

Meanwhile, the aerospace stock is flying high on the TSX. At $43.63 per share, current investors enjoy a nearly 64% year-to-date return. MDA ranked 15th in the 2025 TSX30, an annual ranking of the 30 top Canadian stocks. Its dividend-adjusted share price performance over a three-year period is 340%.

In 2025, revenue and net income rose 51.2% and 36.6% year-over-year to $1.6 billion and $108.5 million. In addition to the $4 billion contracted backlog at the end of Q4 2025, Greenley said MDA has a $40 billion pipeline of opportunity to pursue over the next five years.

Scaling production and expanding operations in attractive markets and geographies are ongoing. He added, “We want the full capability of the space investment community to be able to easily invest in us,” Greenley added. Market analysts recommend a “strong buy” rating for MDA.

Perfect combination

TELUS and MDA Space are suitable for income-focused and growth-oriented investors, respectively. But if combined in a portfolio, you have an income powerhouse and a cash flow engine.

The post 2 Top TSX Stocks to Buy Today for Long-Term Growth appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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

Due to successive annual limit increases, the cumulative Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) contribution room has grown to $109,000 as of 2026. However, for many Canadians aged 50, the actual average balance remains significantly lower than this maximum allowed ceiling.

Staggering gap

Published data show substantial unused room in the approach to the final pre-retirement decade. If the reported average TFSA balance for the age group 50–54 is $26,479, the gap is $82,521. The reasons for the shortfall could be inflation, high cost of living, and financial priorities.

Some users could have fallen into the savings trap. Instead of investing, they stored cash and lost the tax-free advantage. Even if you contribute the maximum amount every year, but in cash, the tax-free money growth is negligible, if not close to zero.

TFSAs could be underfunded because others prioritize their Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) for immediate tax breaks. You can own a TFSA and an RRSP, but maintaining both can be difficult. Note, however, that RRSP withdrawals are taxable and TFSA withdrawals are tax-free. Since the TFSA has no age limit, you have a tax-free savings vehicle for life.

Use your available contribution room and future annual limits to invest in income-producing assets. Dividend stocks can fuel reinvestment, while growth stocks accelerate capital buildup. You won’t worry about taxes, as there are none provided you don’t over-contribute.

Income stock

Canadian Utilities (TSX:CU) is the ultimate income stock and compounding engine. This utility stock is the TSX’s first dividend king. In early January, management announced a Board-approved 1% dividend hike, marking 54 consecutive years of dividend increases.  

The $13.3 billion company has built a ‘moat’ around dividend consistency. Most of the earnings come from highly regulated utilities (electricity and natural gas). Also, the regulated utilities finance infrastructure investments. Canadian Utilities expects its five-year (2026–2030) capital expenditure plan of $12 billion to grow the mid-year rate base from $16.6 billion in 2025 to $23.2 billion in 2023 (a 6.9% compound annual growth rate).

At $48.76 per share, you can partake in the 3.8% dividend. Performance-wise, current investors enjoy a market-beating 15.3% year-to-date gain. A $20,000 investment will compound to $29,171.46, including dividend reinvestment, in 10 years.

Growth stock

Shopify (TSX:SHOP) is a powerful capital accelerator and a compelling opportunity in 2026. At $175.14 per share (-20.8% year-to-date), you can buy Canada’s tech darling at a discount. The $228 billion global commerce champion had a standout year.

In the 12 months ended December 31, 2025, revenue and free cash flow (FCF) rose 30% and 26% year-over-year to US$11.5 billion and US$1.6 billion, respectively. TFSA investors get ready. Its President, Harley Finkelstein, said Shopify laid the rails for the new era of AI commerce last year. “2026 will be the year of the builders, and we’ll be powering them, from first sale to full scale,” he added.

Significant information

Interestingly, data also show that TFSA balances jump significantly for those in the 55–59 ($33,242) and 60–64 ($39,756) age brackets. This trend suggests that Canadians get serious about preparing for retirement as they age. With this information, there’s enough time to play catch-up and bridge the gap before taking the retirement exit.

The post Here’s the Average TFSA Balance for Canadians Age 50 appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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

Every dollar earned in a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) is tax-free. However, in a volatile market like today’s, high yield and monthly dividends matter to income-focused TFSA investors. More than the frequency of reinvestment, the monthly payout functions like a regular paycheque that you can incorporate into your household budget.

Despite a looming energy crisis caused by the Iran war, the TSX’s energy sector continues to surge (+32.4% year-to-date) in 2026. Peyto Exploration & Development Corporation (TSX:PEY), one of the sector’s standout performers, is the perfect TFSA stock for March.

At $28.72 per share, the mid-cap stock pays an attractive 4.6% dividend, along with a monthly payout advantage. TFSA contribution room of $21,000 converts to $80.50 per month. Moreover, the principal remains intact. PEY also becomes a defensive income play.

Natural gas-weighted

The $5.8 billion natural gas-weighted energy company operates in the Alberta Deep Basin. Today, Peyto is an expert in the efficient and profitable extraction of liquids-rich, natural gas resources. It benefits from the high demand for natural gas. In North America alone, liquified natural gas (LNG) export capacity grew by 25% in 2025. This export capacity is expected to expand over the next several years and double by year-end 2029.

Since Peyto is a low-cost operator, the company remains profitable even when AECO prices are weak. AECO is the primary price benchmark for natural gas in Western Canada. Every cent increase in the AECO price translates into excess cash for Peyto.

According to management, even with modest production growth (5% to 10% per year), Peyto’s assets will increase in value and generate enough free cash flow (FCF) to fund its capital program, reduce debt, and pay dividends. In 15 of the last 20 years, Peyto has beaten the AECO monthly price with its diversification strategy and through methodical hedging.

Financial performance

In 2025, Peyto’s total revenue increased 25% to $1.1 billion versus 2024, while earnings jumped 49% year-over-year to $418.6 million. Annual operating and profit margins for the year were 72% and 31%, respectively. The FCF of $325 million enabled Peyto to pay $264.9 million in dividends and reduce debt by $171 million. Also, the total payout ratio declined from 102% to 87%.  

Under its commodity hedging policy, Peyto enters into risk management contracts with well-established counterparties to protect a portion of future revenues from the price volatility (oil and natural gas). Rising commodity prices lead to hedging losses, while falling commodity prices mean hedging gains. Total cumulative realized gains since the program’s inception in 2003 are $759 million.  

Peyto’s long-standing strategy is to maximize shareholders’ returns by focusing its investments and deploying capital in developing long-life, low-cost, and low-risk natural gas resource plays. Investors’ confidence is reflected in the stock’s performance. PEY’s total return in five years is plus-622.4%, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 48.5%.

Reliability and suitability

Peyto hasn’t missed a monthly dividend payment since August 15, 2003. This dividend consistency confirms the stock’s reliability and suitability for a TFSA. Consider using your available room to invest in PEY and receive recurring tax-free income every month.

The post A Perfect March TFSA Stock With a 4.6% Monthly Payout appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

High-quality companies are well-positioned to weather volatility, including the geopolitical conflict in March 2026. Extensive experience navigating major global conflicts in previous years is also an acid test of reliability. Manulife Financial (TSX:MFC) receives a high mark in this aspect, having maintained its solvency through every major war and economic crisis of the last 140 years.

MFC trades at $46.66 per share, down 5.5% year to date. For income investors, the dip is an opportunity to buy a blue-chip stock at a discount. If you invest today, the dividend yield is 4.23%. The insurance icon boasts eight consecutive years of dividend increases, made possible by a resilient business model that has endured from the 19th century to the modern day.

Middle East war

Manulife has a long-standing presence in Canada and the U.S. (through the John Hancock brand) and currently serves 12 markets in Asia. The Asia business is the growth engine and is projected to contribute up to 50% of core earnings by 2027. In May 2025, it opened a strategic office in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in the UAE to serve high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) clients.

The $77 billion financial services company is largely insulated from direct damage in the Iran war as its primary customer base is outside the immediate conflict zone. However, if the current conflict extends much longer, market and economic impacts could become more significant. The recent price drop is due to the risk-off market sentiment, not a business flaw. Historically, MFC has rebounded sharply after a geopolitical crisis.

More importantly, the 136% Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test (LICAT) ratio indicates sufficient capital and economic buffer to navigate market fluctuations due to war anxiety. The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) in Canada requires a total LICAT ratio of at least 100%. MFC’s high LICAT ratio also assures dividend protection.

Defining year

Manulife’s diversified business model delivered strong financial results in 2025. The full-year core earnings of $7.5 billion were a new record, driven by the shift to higher-growth, less capital-intensive businesses. In the 12 months ending December 31, 2025, net income (in constant currency) increased 3.5% year over year to $5.6 billion. Its President and CEO, Phil Witherington, said 2025 was a defining year for Manulife.

In Q4 and full year 2025, core earnings of the Asia segment climbed 24% and 18%, respectively, to US$564 million and US$2.1 billion. For the Wealth & Asset Management (WAM) segment, 2025 core earnings rose 14% to a record $1.9 billion compared with 2024.

According to Colin Simpson, Chief Financial Officer of Manulife, the $6.4 billion remittances last year enabled capital deployment flexibility. In addition to 10% dividend hike recently, he added that MFC plans to repurchase up to 2.5% of outstanding common shares.

Other business highlights include the 50:50 life insurance joint venture with Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. to enter the insurance market in India. Manulife acquired a 75% stake in U.S.-based Comvest Credit Partners to boost its Global WAM. It also entered an agreement to acquire PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia.

Buy-and-hold candidate

Manulife has built a business model designed to thrive in the decades to come. The geopolitical headlines will unsettle markets and trigger temporary pullbacks. Still, MFC remains a buy-and-hold candidate for people seeking to stay invested for the long haul.

The post 1 TSX Dividend Stock Down 5.5% to Buy Now appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Long-term investing is a reliable way to build wealth in the stock market, where sharp rallies and sudden pullbacks are common. While many investors tend to react to short-term volatility, maintaining a long-term view allows you to ride out market swings and focus on the bigger picture – achieving healthy, sustainable returns over time.  

Historically, a longer holding period often beats timing the market. Also, by choosing high-quality investments, you avoid making hasty decisions during downturns.

A wealth-building pair with a long-term edge is Toronto Dominion Bank (TSX:TD) and BCE (TSX:BCE). Beyond their sustainable dividend payments, there’s significant potential for capital appreciation.   

Restored investors’ confidence

Canada’s financial system is robust, regulated, and amply covered by comprehensive consumer protection laws. The Toronto Dominion Bank stands out in 2026 for its high-performance potential, notwithstanding asset caps and constraints in its U.S. operations.

The $214 billion bank’s remarkable recovery from anti-money laundering (AML) compliance failures, along with a historic US$3 billion fine, has reinforced its strong market position. TD currently trades at $130.29 per share (+87.2%) from a low of $69.60 on December 6, 2024. Canada’s second-largest bank is back on investors’ radars.

In Q1 fiscal 2026 (three months ending January 31, 2026), net income rose 45% to $4 billion compared to Q1 fiscal 2025. Also, during the quarter, Canadian Personal and Commercial Banking delivered record revenue, earnings, deposits, and loan volumes. Notably, net income of the U.S. banking segment climbed 627% year-over-year to $1 billion.

The top priorities include fixing deficiencies and meeting regulatory demands. Management’s intense focus on remediation and AML compliance helped restore profitability and investors’ confidence. The remediation timeline is 2027, though it could extend to 2028.

The adjusted return on equity target in fiscal 2026 is 13%, rising to around 16% by fiscal 2029. TD’s strong capital position enabled it to absorb the hefty fine imposed by U.S. regulators without suspending or slashing dividends. It also repurchased 19 million shares and announced a new $7 billion share buyback program.  

TD has kept its 168-year dividend track record intact. If you invest today, TD’s dividend offer is 3.4%.   

Safer, stable investment

BCE did the unthinkable following a major restructuring announcement. In May 2025, Canada’s telco giant cut its annual payout by 56%. The impact was shocking, but the decision made sense. Its payout ratio is down to 34% after remaining above 100% for the last four years. The 5% dividend is safer and more stable in 2026.

As of this writing, BCE trades at $35.42 per share, up 9.6% year-to-date versus the broad market’s plus-3.7%. Also, the communication services sector has gained 6.1% thus far this year. The $32.7 billion communications company achieved all its financial guidance targets for 2025.

In 2025, BCE’s free cash flow (FCF) increased 10% year-over-year to $3.2 billion, with net earnings reaching $6.5 billion. Mirko Bibic, President and CEO of BCE and Bell Canada, said, “We are well-positioned to drive sustainable free cash flow growth and deliver long-term returns for shareholders.” He added that BCE is building a digital media and content powerhouse.

Buy and hold   

TD and BCE took parallel journeys to regain investors’ trust and confidence. After their reset periods and with renewed growth stories, both are the top stocks to buy and hold for the long term.  

The post 2 Top Stocks to Buy and Hold for the Long Term appeared first on The Motley Fool Canada.

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Fool contributor Christopher Liew has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.