5 Top Canadian Stocks to Buy in July 2021

The second half of the year is bullish for the stock market in the run-up to the holiday season. This year is important because of the recovery rally. 

This July, don’t just sit and regret missing the recovery and seasonal rally. Instead, take this opportunity and ride the rally. Here are five stocks that will benefit from the reopening of the economy and the holiday season shopping. 

Air Canada stock

Air Canada (TSX:AC) is a growth stock in disguise. This debt-burdened, cash-burning airline’s stock surged 63% from its October 2020 low. And fundamentals have nothing to do with it. When the $5.9 billion government bailout injected cash into the balance sheet, the stock dipped. The shareholders were in disagreement over the 6% stake government took in return for the bailout. But they did not react well to the $10 million bonus Air Canada bosses tried giving themselves. 

Such is the momentum of AC stock. The stock is riding on sentiments, and sentiments are irrational. I expect these sentiments to remain on the bull side, as travel restrictions ease and Air Canada flights take to international skies. The next six to eight months will be filled with AC handling pent-up demand for air travel if there is no fourth COVID-19 wave. AC stock could surge to $40. Once the demand normalizes, fundamentals will kick in, and the stock could see a correction. Don’t miss this rally from $25 to $40. 

Suncor stock

Suncor Energy (TSX:SU)(NYSE:SU) stock is riding the recovery rally alongside Air Canada. The oil giant has a better chance, as it provides jet fuel and gasoline to all forms of transportation. The pent-up travel demand could drive oil prices to a new high, as many oil companies had slowed their production during the pandemic. Brent crude price has almost doubled from November 2020 and is currently selling at US$74.68/barrel. Suncor stock moves in tandem with the oil price. The stock has surged 89% from its November low. 

This shows why Warren Buffett bought the stock in July 2020, even though the company announced dividend cuts. He was eyeing the recovery rally that more than compensated for its 55% dividend cut. There is still room for growth, as the stock tries to reach its pre-pandemic price of $42 — a 43% upside. But this rise will only last till the demand normalizes. 

Cargojet stock 

It is not just the people who will be flying; so will the cargo. Cargojet (TSX:CJT) stock was a star performer during the pandemic, as the e-commerce catalyst boosted its revenue. The third quarter of 2020 was its peak, as Cargojet reported its highest revenue growth (65%) in five years. Then came the correction, as the catalyst effect started fading with the announcement of the vaccine. 

A 29% correction has made the shares attractive. With the reopening of the economy, volumes from business and e-commerce customers are returning thanks to back-to-school and holiday season fever. The seasonal revenue growth will reflect in the stock price. 

Descartes 

The growing demand for Cargojet and Air Canada will benefit Descartes Systems (TSX:DSG)(NASDAQ:DSGX), which helps companies optimize logistics and supply chain management. Descartes’s revenue surges as information, cargo, and people transit from one place to another. In the pandemic, the surge in e-commerce volumes offset the decline in air travel and business volumes. The reopening of the economy will revive travel and business volumes, while e-commerce volumes will remain strong.

Descartes stock has already surged 22% in June and has the potential to surge on the recovery and Santa Claus rally. 

Magna 

While the above four stocks saw a surge in June, Magna International (TSX:MG)(NYSE:MGA) saw a correction of 8.5%. Magna stock surged 80% between November 2020 and May 2021 on the electric vehicle (EV) momentum. The current dip is temporary, as the economy is moving away from fiscal stimulus to natural growth. The stimulus package might end by September or latest by November. Automakers have adopted a wait-and-watch approach. This period of stagnation brings a buying opportunity. 

Once EV sales pick up, Magna’s revenue will surge. Its factories will get busy, and auto components will be in demand. While the above four stocks could rally in the second half of the year, Magna’s rally could resume later. 

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 Puja Tayal has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends CARGOJET INC. The Motley Fool recommends Magna Int’l.

More on Dividend Stocks

Canadian dollars in a magnifying glass
Dividend Stocks

Here Are My Top 3 Dividend Stocks to Buy Now

These top dividends stocks have consistently paid and increased their dividends. Further, this trend will continue.

Read more »

dividends can compound over time
Dividend Stocks

Want a 7% Yield? The 3 TSX Stocks to Buy Today

These TSX stocks are offering high yields of over 7%, making them attractive for investors seeking steady passive income.

Read more »

how to save money
Dividend Stocks

The Smartest Dividend Stocks to Buy With $200 Right Now

These smartest dividend stocks can consistently pay and increase their dividends in the coming years, irrespective of the macro uncertainty.

Read more »

Electricity transmission towers with orange glowing wires against night sky
Dividend Stocks

3 Utility Stocks That Are Smart Buys for Canadians in November

These utility stocks benefit from regulated businesses and generate predictable cash flows that support higher dividend payouts.

Read more »

Start line on the highway
Dividend Stocks

Invest $10,000 in This Dividend Stock for $600 in Passive Income

Do you want to generate passive income? Forget the rental unit! This option will save you the mortgage yet still…

Read more »

Senior uses a laptop computer
Dividend Stocks

1 Reliable Dividend Stock for the Ultimate Retirement Income Stream

TD Bank (TSX:TD) shares are way too cheap with way too swollen a yield for retirees to pass up right…

Read more »

A worker drinks out of a mug in an office.
Dividend Stocks

Is Brookfield Infrastructure Partners a Buy for its 4.75% Yield?

Brookfield Infrastructure Partners (BIP) has a 4.75% dividend yield. Is it worth it?

Read more »

TFSA (Tax-Free Savings Account) on wooden blocks and Canadian one hundred dollar bills.
Dividend Stocks

Where to Invest Your $7,000 TFSA Contribution

The TFSA is attractive for investors who want to generate tax-free passive income.

Read more »