My 3 Top Canadian Stock Picks for 2022

Looking for some stocking stuffers this holiday season? Here are three of my top Canadian stock picks for 2022 and even beyond.

analyze data

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s premium investing services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn moresdf

The New Year is right around the corner and it’s time to consider what Canadian stocks picks I want to hold for 2022. Looking back, 2021 was an amazing year for stocks. However, returns might be tempered in 2022.

However, I still think it is possible to outperform the TSX. If you are looking for some nice little stocking stuffers this Christmas, here are two top technology stocks and one cyclical stock that should outperform in 2022.

Descartes Systems: A top Canadian tech stock

Global supply challenges appear to be improving as the year comes to an end. Yet, with continued waves of COVID-19, it appears supply chain issues will persist to some extent. That bodes very favourably for Descartes Systems (TSX:DSG)(NASDAQ:DSGX). It provides a cloud-based logistics network that is complemented with a wide array of logistics-orientated software solutions.

Descartes had a great year in 2021. So far revenues, net income, and adjusted EBITDA have grown by 22%, 91%, and 32% respectively for its fiscal nine months. This Canadian stock has no debt and $171 million of cash. Technology business valuations could decline with interest rates rising, so 2022 could be a good year to continue expanding its capabilities through acquisition.

This is not a cheap stock, so I like to buy it on dips. However, for a fairly low-risk, stable mid-teens growth stock, this is one to buy and hold for the long-run.

Constellation Software: A top performing TSX stock

Another Canadian tech stock that should enjoy solid market beating gains is Constellation Software (TSX:CSU). Despite the recent volatility in tech stocks, Constellation barely moved. I think that just speaks to the quality of the company and the long-term focus of its management and shareholders.

For the past five years, this stock has a delivered consistent 30% annual returns. While it generally grows by acquiring vertical market software businesses, it is also exploring new avenues to deliver returns.

One was to spin out a European-focused software acquirer, Topicus.com (TSXV:TOI). Another has been to increase the size of its acquisition targets and look at new software verticals. Lastly, the company commenced a new venture capital strategy focused on organic growth. All of these factors should help this business to continue delivering market-beating returns going forward.

Suncor Energy: A top Canadian energy stock pick

For a more cyclical stock in 2022, Suncor Energy (TSX:SU)(NYSE:SU) could deliver another strong year. This Canadian stock is volatile, so you need an iron stomach. Yet, the company is in the early innings of a nice turnaround. If oil stays over US$70 per barrel, it is in a great position to deliver solid total shareholder returns.

It just raised its dividend by 100%. This Canadian stock now yields over 5.5%. Likewise, the company is returning to a posture of operational excellence. That should help fuel really strong cash flow growth for the next few years.

Right now, it is quickly reducing debt and buying back tonnes of stock. The stock has not recovered to the same extent as other super major oil peers. So, I expect it should benefit from a valuation re-rating at some point as well.

Wishing you and yours a safe and happy holiday season!

This article represents the opinion of the writer, who may disagree with the “official” recommendation position of a Motley Fool premium service or advisor. We’re Motley! Questioning an investing thesis — even one of our own — helps us all think critically about investing and make decisions that help us become smarter, happier, and richer, so we sometimes publish articles that may not be in line with recommendations, rankings or other content.

Fool contributor Robin Brown owns Constellation Software, DESCARTES SYS, and Topicus.Com Inc. The Motley Fool owns and recommends Topicus.Com Inc. The Motley Fool recommends Constellation Software.

More on Stocks for Beginners

A red umbrella stands higher than a crowd of black umbrellas.
Stocks for Beginners

Top Recession-Resilient TSX Stocks to Buy With $3,000

It's time to increase your exposure to defensives!

Read more »

An airplane on a runway
Stocks for Beginners

Will Bombardier’s Stock Price Keep Soaring in 2023?

Here are the top reasons why recent gains in Bombardier’s share prices could just be the start of a spectacular…

Read more »

Automated vehicles
Stocks for Beginners

Magna Stock: How High Could It Go in 2023?

Magna International could grow in 2023 as the electric vehicle market recovers. Could MG stock hit new highs?

Read more »

Man data analyze
Stocks for Beginners

3 Top Stocks to Buy Now in a Once-in-a-Decade Opportunity

The next decade could be absolutely insane for these three top stocks that offer growth in both the near and…

Read more »

Profit dial turned up to maximum
Stocks for Beginners

How TFSA and RRSP Investors Can Turn $20,000 Into $320,000 in 30 Years

Investing in the stock market and holding patiently over the long term is the key to success.

Read more »

tsx today
Stocks for Beginners

TSX Today: What to Watch for in Stocks on Tuesday, February 21

A minor recovery in oil and base metals prices could lift commodity-linked TSX stocks at the open today.

Read more »

Young adult woman walking up the stairs with sun sport background
Stocks for Beginners

New to Stocks? 5 Easy Tricks to Give You a Leg Up

New stock investors from all walks of life can improve their returns from applying some, if not all, of these…

Read more »

IMAGE OF A NOTEBOOK WITH TFSA WRITTEN ON IT
Stocks for Beginners

2 Top TSX Stocks for TFSA Investors to Buy Now

If you have a long investment horizon, don't waste your TFSA on high-interest savings plans. Generate long-term wealth with these…

Read more »