In Focus

Through all the stress tests--from mid-2006 until now--strong businesses have continued to report steady revenue and cash flows, relying on their own resources to survive. And so far many Canadian trusts have reported decent third quarter earnings, proving their resilience once again. Read More

Sustainability is the key to success for Canadian income trusts--as well as other dividend payers--as we ride through this current market crisis. Unfortunately, the turbulent waters are unlikely to calm down in the fourth quarter. But many trusts still have strong underlying characteristics, which is crucial in this challenging environment. Read More

In order to keep the profits rolling in before and after 2011, it's crucial to focus on well-run businesses that continue to gain value. The key to success in trusts is to stick with those that succeed regardless of how they're taxed. And this market offers plenty. Read More

Recent selling has proven to be a major stress test for the energy services sector. But lower valuations coupled with a refocus on stronger areas of the energy patch will strengthen the sector, allowing energy trusts to weather the storm through 2008. Read More

Steadily rising demand for electricity has translated into rising sales for Canadian power companies. Coupled with abundant natural resources, that adds up to increasing cash flow for providers and higher yields for the income trusts that produce power. Read More

Although the outlook for US real estate remains gloomy as economic challenges creep north of the border, Canadian plays are healthier than ever. And, as Canadian banks combat pressure from the south, signs show activity in the sector is picking up. Read More

The biggest challenge for Canada in the coming years will be updating infrastructure, particularly in the populous eastern region of the country. But unlike many other growing nations, it has the balance sheet to easily cover the tab. Read More

Despite the recent spike in oil prices, the majority of Canadian oil and gas producers remain under pressure. But focusing on healthy businesses has kept investors afloat during the flood of sector turmoil. Read More

Trusts are being valued at far lower levels than equivalent corporations. But once they convert in 2011, those discounts should disappear, creating a windfall for investors. Read More

Canada is better positioned against a recession than many economies, as noted by its banks. But it still faces three big challenges: US trade dependency, the value of the Canadian dollar and the credit crunch. Read More