Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CM)

Yes, Canadian banks have historically fallen during downturns. That’s remained true for Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, which is currently down by 22% in the last year.

However, Canadian banks, including CIBC, have provisions for loan losses. These come into play right now, when Canadians take out fewer loans as interest rates continue to rise.

But even in recessions, CIBC has proven it can reach pre-fall prices within a year’s time.

What’s more, CIBC has been expanding rapidly, going through an overhaul of its business to gain and retain far more clients. The $52.25-billion company operates mainly in retail and business banking, as well as wealth management and capital markets. Yet it’s this focus that’s led to more clients, with 17 million customers choosing the bank above the other Big Five.

CIBC currently offers a dividend yield at 5.89%.

A better online investing experience

Easy to use and powerful, Qtrade's online trading platform puts you in full control with tools and resources that help you make well-informed decisions.

Invest Now

NorthWest Healthcare Properties REIT (NWH)

If you’re looking at high yield income, you’re likely going to hear about real estate investment trusts (REIT). That’s because REITs pay out a significant portion of their taxable income to investors. Yet this could suddenly lead to a dividend decrease during a downturn, with interest rates creating higher payments.

However, that’s not the case for safe sectors such as healthcare. That’s why NorthWest REIT is an option. It provides diversified income for investors, as it operates healthcare properties around the world. This includes everything from hospitals to office buildings, with the company now boasting a market capitalization close to $2 billion.

The thing is, NorthWest REIT is quite new. So it doesn’t have the history of coming back after recessions that other companies might have. Shares are down 38% in the last year, and 11% year-to-date.

However, its properties have a 97% occupancy rate and an average lease agreement of 14 years, plus the current annual dividend yield of 9.48% is pretty enticing. What’s more, their dividend comes out every month.

Those looking to take control of their investments should certainly explore online trading platforms. The best sites offer resources and tools to help investors make informed decisions as they build and manage their investment portfolios.

Fiera Capital (FSZ)

For a cheap stock with a super-high yield, you may have already come across Fiera Capital.

This investment company invests primarily in value and growth stocks. The asset management firm also offers its services to private wealth clients, operating in Canada, the United States, Europe and elsewhere. The majority of revenue of this $787.2-million company comes from the United States.

Shares are down about 26% in the last year and 12% year-to-date. Yet, even when the company slumps, as it did back in the Great Recession, it continues to maintain dividend payments. Currently, it pays out an ultra-high 11.13% dividend yield.

Sponsored

Trade Smarter, Today

With CIBC Investor's Edge, kick-start your portfolio with 100 free trades and up to $4,500 cash back.

About the Author

Amy Legate-Wolfe

Amy Legate-Wolfe

Freelance Contributor

Amy Legate-Wolfe is an investment junkie, who aims to help others get hooked by providing well-researched advice. After receiving a masters in journalism from Western University, Amy worked for Huff Post and CTVNews.ca, while freelancing for organizations such as the CBC, Motley Fool Canada and Financial Post. Amy Legate-Wolfe is an experienced personal finance writer and freelance contributor working with Money.ca.

What to Read Next

Disclaimer

The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.