When the stock market gets bumpy, most investors find themselves looking for safe ground. Some rush to cash, others hide in gold. But for Canadians who want income, stability, and long-term growth, our biggest banks tend to be the go-to move. Not only have these proven to weather economic storms, but they also tend to dish out reliable dividends, even when markets take a nosedive. If you’re putting together a defensive portfolio, three of the best bank stocks remain Royal Bank of Canada (TSX: RY), Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSX: TD), and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (TSX: CM).
RBC
Let’s start with Royal Bank of Canada. It’s the largest bank in the country and frankly one of the most dominant businesses on the TSX. In its most recent earnings report for the first quarter of 2025, RBC reported a net income of $5.1 billion, up 43% from the same quarter in 2024. Adjusted net income hit $5.3 billion, and diluted earnings per…
