If you’re thinking about putting $10,000 to work in the stock market, it’s smart to focus on companies with strong business models, solid track records, and long-term growth potential. Two standout Canadian stocks—each operating in vastly different but highly resilient industries—fit that bill. They may not be flashy, but their consistency and strategic advantages make them excellent candidates for a buy-and-hold portfolio.
Brookfield Asset Management (TSX:BAM): A Global Leader in Alternative Investing
Brookfield Asset Management is a powerhouse in the world of alternative investments. The company manages a wide array of real assets, ranging from renewable power and transportation to data infrastructure and private equity. With a presence in numerous sectors and across global markets, Brookfield benefits from significant diversification—something that helps cushion against localized economic shocks or sector-specific downturns.
As of the end of 2024, Brookfield had more than US$1 trillion in assets under management, a testament to its strong reputation among institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals. Its ability to attract new capital has translated into strong financial performance. In Q4 2024, the firm posted a 17% year-over-year increase in fee-related earnings, bringing in US$677 million for the quarter. For the full year, fee-related earnings reached US$2.5 billion, highlighting both the scale and momentum of its operations.
As interest in sustainable and infrastructure-based investing grows, Brookfield is well-positioned to continue benefiting from long-term secular trends in global capital allocation.
Waste Connections (TSX:WCN): Reliable Growth in an Essential Industry
Waste Connections operates in an industry that never goes out of style: garbage collection and waste disposal. Economic ups and downs might impact many businesses, but people will always produce waste—and it always needs to be managed. That built-in stability makes this sector uniquely recession-resistant.
Operating across North America, Waste Connections runs a broad network of waste collection services, landfills, recycling centres, and transfer stations. This vertically integrated model enables the company to control costs and extract value across the entire chain of operations.
In 2024, Waste Connections posted full-year revenue of US$8.92 billion, up over 11% year over year, reflecting both organic growth and successful acquisitions. Adjusted net income came in at US$1.239 billion, and its fourth-quarter revenue of US$2.26 billion showed steady momentum. Thanks to its efficient operations and focus on strategic expansion, the company continues to generate consistent profits and reliable cash flow.
Bottom Line: Two Different Paths to Long-Term Success
Brookfield Asset Management and Waste Connections may serve entirely different markets, but both are built on rock-solid foundations. Brookfield is poised to keep riding the wave of demand for real assets, especially as the world invests more in infrastructure and sustainability. Waste Connections, on the other hand, benefits from the essential nature of its services, growing urban populations, and stricter environmental regulations.
If you’re looking for stable, long-term performers with the potential to grow your $10,000 investment, these two Canadian stocks are worth serious consideration.
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