Best Stock Investments this January 2026 in Canada

Descartes Systems Group is a strong contender in infrastructure software, providing reliable growth linked to global goods movement, even during economic fluctuations. Despite a challenging year with a return of -22.95%, the stock has performed well over five years with a return of 65.71%. Analysts generally favor the stock, with ratings like Overweight from Barclays and a B+ overall rating, indicating confidence in its execution and sustainability.

Sixteen analysts have rated DSG stock over the past three months, with most supporting a strong buy trend, resulting in an overall buy rating.

Metro Inc. stands out as a reliable grocery retailer, known for its steady compounding growth and gradual dividend increases, making it a defensive investment choice. With a dividend yield of 1.57% and a strong five-year return of 72.03%, it offers appealing prospects for investors. Analysts rate the stock a solid B+, reflecting a "Moderate Buy" sentiment that suggests potential for further price appreciation.

Metro Inc. (MRU) has an average analyst price target of C$111.00, indicating a potential 13.66% increase from its current price of C$97.95, with a consensus rating of 'Moderate Buy' from three analysts.

Analysts rate Metro Inc. as a 'Moderate Buy,' reflecting positive sentiment and potential for price appreciation.

Thomson Reuters, a key player in subscription-based information and workflow tools, is well-positioned for long-term growth through its investments in AI and a strong revenue model. Despite a 1-year return of -19.85%, the stock has delivered an impressive 71.17% return over the past five years, making it an attractive option for investors seeking stability and growth potential. With a dividend yield of 1.76%, it remains a solid choice for those who value reliable income amidst a challenging macro environment.

TRI shares have decreased by $0.15, or 0.12%, closing at $129.23.

TRI is considered a safer long-term investment with good upside potential, but investors may want to wait for market sentiment post-earnings if they are currently skeptical.

In the past 12 months, TRI has underperformed the S&P 500, with a return of -17% compared to the S&P 500's +17%.

As of January 2, 2026, TRI has a dividend payout of $2.38 and a yield of 1.88%.

Fortis stands out as a premier choice for Canadian dividend investing, boasting 52 years of consecutive dividend growth. With a current dividend yield of 3.50% and a robust 21.60% return over the past year, it presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking reliable income. Analysts rate Fortis with a B-, and its long-term earnings growth rate of 4.29% positions it favorably for sustained performance.

Fortis has a long-term earnings growth rate of 4.29% and has surpassed earnings estimates in three of the last four quarters, indicating a generally positive outlook.

Fortis is recognized as a Dividend King, currently trading in oversold territory, which may present a buying opportunity for long-term investors.

The average 12-month price target for Fortis is C$74.00, with estimates ranging from a low of C$68.00 to a high of C$79.00, reflecting a potential 3.86% increase from its current price of C$71.25.

Intact Financial is a resilient insurer that emphasizes disciplined underwriting and effective claims management, allowing it to collect premiums upfront for consistent earnings. With a dividend yield of approximately 1.89% and impressive long-term growth, reflecting a 93.4% increase over five years, it remains a solid choice for investors seeking reliable income. The stock holds a consensus rating of "Moderate Buy" from analysts, although it's worth noting a recent downgrade by UBS to Neutral.

Intact Financial Corporation has a consensus rating of 'Moderate Buy' from 7 Wall Street analysts.

IFC's earnings are forecast to decline by 3.3% annually over the next three years, while revenue is expected to grow at 2.2%, slower than the Canadian market average of 5.3%.

Intact Financial has a consensus rating of 'Moderate Buy' from 10 Wall Street analysts, with 6 buy ratings, 3 hold ratings, and 1 strong buy rating.

The analyst rating for Intact Financial Corporation is 'Moderate Buy' based on recent evaluations.

Canadian Natural Resources stands out as a major oil and gas producer in Canada, known for its high trading volume and robust exposure to traditional energy sectors. Despite a slight downturn of 1.41% over the past year, the company boasts an impressive five-year return of 168.32%, reflecting its strong growth potential. With a solid dividend yield of 5.17%, it remains a compelling option for investors seeking reliable income from a well-rated stock, backed by favorable ratings from leading analysts like Goldman Sachs and RBC Capital.

CNQ has shown strong historical growth, with an average Earnings Per Share (EPS) increase of 16.79% per year and a revenue growth of 8.06% in the past year.

In the past 12 months, CNQ has underperformed the S&P TSX Composite Index, with a return of -6% compared to the index's +29% growth.

CNQ's low valuation is attributed to its long-life, low-decline oil sands operations, which feature predictable production and some of the industry's lowest operating costs.