Canada's Top Dividend Stocks for a Safe Return

Canadian investors looking for reliable dividend stocks have several options to consider. Three top picks from The Motley Fool Canada are Fortis, Royal Bank of Canada, and Canadian Natural Resources.

Fortis is a leading energy company with an impressive 52-year streak of consecutive dividend growth. Its assets are primarily distribution and transmission infrastructure, which are regulated by the government, providing a stable income stream. With a market capitalization of over $20 billion, Fortis has consistently delivered single-digit returns to shareholders.

Another top pick is Royal Bank of Canada, the largest bank in Canada with a market cap of $390 billion. The bank has a strong track record of dividend growth, increasing its payout by 8.8% compounded annually over the past two decades. However, investors should note that the stock's dividend yield has compressed to 2.45%, making it a bit pricey at current levels.

Canadian Natural Resources is also an attractive option for dividend investors. The company has increased its dividend for 26 consecutive years, with a compounded annual growth rate of 20% over this period. Its strong balance sheet and low debt level provide flexibility to reward shareholders in the future.