Recession proof Canadian stocks, listed

Here are some examples of Canadian stocks that have historically been considered more recession-resistant due to their industry and business characteristics. Please keep in mind that these examples are not recommendations, and you should conduct thorough research and consider your own financial goals before making any investment decisions.

Fortis Inc. (FTS.TO) Fortis is a Canadian utility company that provides electricity and natural gas distribution services. Utility companies like Fortis tend to be more stable during economic downturns due to the essential nature of their services.Fortis Inc. is a Canadian utility holding company headquartered in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. It is one of the largest publicly traded utility companies in Canada and has a significant presence in North America, the Caribbean, and other international markets.Founded in 1987, Fortis operates as a diversified electric and gas utility company. It owns and operates various subsidiaries and regulated utilities, providing electricity generation, transmission, and distribution services, as well as natural gas distribution services. Fortis serves millions of customers across its utility subsidiaries in multiple provinces in Canada, including Newfoundland and Labrador, British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Prince Edward Island.
Fortis has a reputation for being a stable and defensive investment, thanks to the essential nature of its services. As a utility company, it operates in a regulated industry, which often provides a level of predictable revenue and cash flows. People and businesses require electricity and natural gas services regardless of economic conditions, which can contribute to the company’s resilience during economic downturns.
Over the years, Fortis has pursued a strategy of growth through acquisitions and investments in the energy sector. It has expanded its operations through acquisitions of other utility companies, allowing it to diversify its geographic footprint and customer base.
Fortis is also committed to sustainable practices and has invested in renewable energy projects, such as wind and hydroelectric power, as part of its efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources.
As a publicly traded company, Fortis is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the ticker symbol “FTS” and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “FTS.” Investors often consider Fortis as a reliable and dividend-paying stock, given its steady growth and stable business model.
Metro Inc. (MRU.TO): Metro is a Canadian food retailer, and consumer staples companies like this one tend to be more resilient during economic downturns as people continue to buy essential groceries.Metro Inc. is a major Canadian food retailer, operating a network of grocery stores and pharmacies. The company is headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, and has a significant presence in the Canadian retail industry.Founded in 1947, Metro has grown into one of the largest grocery retailers in Canada, operating under various banners, including Metro, Super C, and Food Basics. It also owns the Jean Coutu Group, a chain of pharmacies operating in Quebec and Ontario.
Metro’s stores offer a wide range of food products, including fresh produce, meat, dairy, baked goods, and general grocery items. The company caters to diverse customer needs, from budget-conscious shoppers to those seeking premium and organic products.
In addition to its core grocery business, Metro has ventured into the e-commerce space to meet evolving consumer preferences. It offers online shopping and home delivery services to customers in certain areas, providing added convenience and flexibility.
As a food retailer, Metro operates in the consumer staples sector, making it relatively resilient during economic downturns. Even during challenging economic times, people still need to purchase essential groceries, which can support the company’s revenue stability.
Metro focuses on maintaining a strong commitment to quality and customer service, aiming to provide a positive shopping experience for its customers. The company regularly introduces new products, promotions, and loyalty programs to attract and retain shoppers.
Metro’s stock is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the ticker symbol “MRU.” It is considered a blue-chip stock, known for its stability and dividend-paying history, which can be appealing to income-oriented investors.
Telus Corporation (T.TO): Telus is a major Canadian telecommunications company that provides mobile, internet, and TV services. Telecommunication companies are often seen as defensive investments.Telus Corp is a Canadian telecommunications company headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. As one of the major players in the telecommunications industry in Canada, Telus provides a wide range of services including wireless and wireline voice and data services, internet, television, and healthcare solutions.Telus operates primarily in Canada, serving millions of customers across the country. They have a strong focus on customer satisfaction and have been recognized for their efforts in this area, consistently ranking high in customer service surveys.
In addition to their telecommunications services, Telus has also invested in healthcare technology and services. They offer digital health solutions and services, including telehealth, to improve access to healthcare and enhance patient care.
The company has been actively expanding its network infrastructure and investing in the deployment of 5G technology to offer faster and more reliable data services to their customers.
Telus has a commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing their environmental impact and contributing to the communities they serve.
Emera Inc. (EMA.TO): Emera is another utility company that operates in the energy sector, providing electricity and gas services. Like other utility stocks, it is considered relatively stable.Telus Corp is a Canadian telecommunications company headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia. As one of the major players in the telecommunications industry in Canada, Telus provides a wide range of services including wireless and wireline voice and data services, internet, television, and healthcare solutions.Telus operates primarily in Canada, serving millions of customers across the country. They have a strong focus on customer satisfaction and have been recognized for their efforts in this area, consistently ranking high in customer service surveys.
In addition to their telecommunications services, Telus has also invested in healthcare technology and services. They offer digital health solutions and services, including telehealth, to improve access to healthcare and enhance patient care.
The company has been actively expanding its network infrastructure and investing in the deployment of 5G technology to offer faster and more reliable data services to their customers.
Telus has a commitment to corporate social responsibility and sustainability, with initiatives aimed at reducing their environmental impact and contributing to the communities they serve.
Johnson & Johnson (JNJ.TO): Johnson & Johnson is a global healthcare company with a significant presence in Canada. Healthcare stocks, in general, tend to be more recession-resistant.Johnson & Johnson (J&J) is a multinational healthcare company and a publicly traded stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol “JNJ.” Founded in 1886, the company is one of the largest and most well-known healthcare corporations in the world.As a diversified company, Johnson & Johnson operates in three main segments: pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer health products. They have a broad portfolio of products, ranging from prescription medications and medical devices to over-the-counter (OTC) consumer healthcare products like baby care, skincare, and household items.
In the pharmaceutical segment, J&J develops and markets a wide range of prescription drugs across various therapeutic areas, including immunology, oncology, cardiovascular, neuroscience, and infectious diseases. They have several blockbuster drugs in their portfolio, contributing significantly to their revenue.
In the medical devices segment, Johnson & Johnson manufactures and sells a variety of medical devices and equipment used in surgical procedures, orthopedics, cardiovascular care, and other medical specialties.
The consumer health segment focuses on producing and marketing well-known brands such as Band-Aid, Tylenol, Neutrogena, and Listerine, among others.
Johnson & Johnson has a long history of innovation and has been involved in significant advancements in healthcare. They invest heavily in research and development, striving to bring new and improved products to market.
As a company, J&J has faced various challenges, including product recalls and legal issues related to some of its products, which have affected its reputation and financial performance.
Investors often view Johnson & Johnson stock as a stable long-term investment due to its diversified business model and consistent dividend payments. The company’s performance can be influenced by factors such as regulatory approvals, competition in the healthcare sector, research and development success, and global economic conditions.
As with any investment, potential investors in Johnson & Johnson stock should conduct thorough research, analyze the company’s financials and performance, and consider factors that might affect the healthcare industry as a whole. Consulting with a financial advisor can also help investors make well-informed decisions based on their individual financial goals and risk tolerance.
Loblaw Companies Limited (L.TO): Loblaw is one of Canada’s largest grocery and pharmacy retailers, making it a consumer staples company with potential resilience during economic downturns.Loblaw Companies Limited is a Canadian retail and pharmacy company, and its stock is publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSE) under the ticker symbol “L.” Founded in 1919, Loblaw is one of the largest and most recognized retail chains in Canada.As a diversified company, Loblaw operates a wide range of retail banners, including Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, No Frills, Shoppers Drug Mart, and many others. The company’s retail operations cover various segments, including grocery, pharmacy, apparel, beauty, and general merchandise.
Loblaw’s grocery stores are known for offering a broad selection of products, from fresh produce and everyday essentials to specialty and premium items. They have a strong presence in the Canadian grocery market and serve millions of customers across the country.
Shoppers Drug Mart, a significant part of Loblaw’s operations, is one of the largest pharmacy chains in Canada, providing prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, health and beauty products, and other health services.
The company has been actively investing in its e-commerce capabilities to adapt to changing consumer trends and preferences. They offer online grocery shopping and delivery services, making it more convenient for customers to shop for their essentials.
Loblaw also owns and operates a financial services segment through its subsidiary, President’s Choice Financial, which offers banking and insurance products to customers.
As a publicly traded company, Loblaw’s stock value can be influenced by various factors, including its financial performance, competitive landscape, consumer spending habits, and overall economic conditions.
Investors often consider Loblaw stock as a stable investment option due to its position as a leading retailer in Canada and its steady cash flows. However, like any investment, potential investors should conduct thorough research, analyze the company’s financials, and consider market conditions before making any investment decisions. Consulting with a financial advisor can provide additional insights and guidance tailored to individual investment goals and risk tolerance.
Waste Connections Inc. (WCN.TO): Waste Connections is a Canadian company providing waste management services, which can be more stable in uncertain economic times.Waste Connections Inc. is a North American waste management company that provides collection, disposal, and recycling services. Headquartered in Vaughan, Ontario, Canada, the company operates in the United States and Canada, serving millions of residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal customers.As a waste management company, Waste Connections is responsible for collecting and transporting solid waste, recycling materials, and organic waste from various sources. They offer a wide range of waste disposal solutions, including curbside pick-up, commercial waste collection, roll-off container services, and landfill operations.
One of the key aspects of Waste Connections’ operations is their commitment to environmental sustainability. They prioritize recycling and strive to minimize the impact of waste on the environment by diverting recyclable materials from landfills and encouraging responsible waste disposal practices.
The company’s services extend beyond waste collection and disposal. Waste Connections also operates recycling facilities where they process and sort recyclable materials to be reused in manufacturing processes or converted into new products.
Waste Connections aims to be a responsible corporate citizen, working closely with communities to address waste management challenges and implementing environmental initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint.
As a publicly traded company, Waste Connections’ stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol “WCN.” The company’s financial performance, growth prospects, and management decisions can all influence the value of its stock.
Investors may find Waste Connections stock appealing for several reasons, including the company’s stable revenue streams, steady demand for waste management services, and potential for expansion through acquisitions in the waste industry.
Before investing in Waste Connections stock or any other investment, it is essential for potential investors to conduct thorough research, analyze the company’s financials, consider industry trends, and consult with a financial advisor to make informed decisions aligned with their investment goals and risk tolerance.

Keep in mind that past performance is not indicative of future results, and all investments carry risks. It is essential to thoroughly research any company before investing, consider your investment goals and risk tolerance, and consult with a qualified financial advisor if needed. Additionally, I recommend checking more recent sources or financial news outlets for up-to-date information on specific stocks and market conditions.