In 2016, I opted for a sabbatical, embarked on a journey with my family in a compact RV, and traveled to Costa Rica.
Upon my return in 2017, I stepped down from my position as a private banker at National Bank and devoted myself entirely to my initiative: Dividend Stocks Rock. I also initiated the management of my pension account at National Bank, publicly constructing and managing this portfolio since 2017 as a practical case study.
In August 2017, my locked retirement account was credited with $108,760.02. Being locked implies no further capital can be introduced, and growth is reliant on capital gains and dividends. The goal of sharing the outcomes of this portfolio is not to brag about my profits or to persuade you to emulate my journey, but to convey my portfolio management experiences with our members, highlighting both the advantages and disadvantages occurring each month. I hope you gain insights and continue learning from my portfolio management experiences.
Market Fluctuations at the Start of the Year
The year commenced strongly, but as earnings reports are released, investor concerns are re-emerging. Could the market’s almost doubling over the last 3 years be a factor? Or is it that many stocks seem overpriced? Perhaps there is anxiety that the AI bubble could pop, impacting not just technology stocks but also infrastructure, industrial, construction, power, and energy sectors.
A multitude of inquiries arise at the beginning of 2026. An increase in questions results in heightened market volatility.
Is this an appropriate moment to safeguard funds in a secure store of value, such as Gold, Silver, or Bitcoin?
Regrettably, volatility is widespread.
At the start of the year, various stocks and issues piqued my interest, as much appears irrational at this time. This underscores the necessity to revisit fundamentals, examine narratives, and then concentrate on numbers!
But first, let’s review the results!
Performance Overview
Let’s examine the figures as of February 3rd, 2026 (before the market opens):
Initial amount in September 2017 (no additional capital): $108,760.02.
- Current portfolio value: $321,685.53
- Dividends received: $5,306.00 (TTM)
- Average yield: 1.61%
- 2025 performance: +7.34%
- VFV.TO= +12.18%, XIU.TO = +28.88%
- Dividend growth: +1.5%
Total return since inception (Sep 2017- January 2026): +195.78%
Annualized return (99 months): 14.05%
Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF (VFV.TO) annualized return (since Sept 2017): 16.15% (total return 243.80%)
iShares S&P/TSX 60 ETF (XIU.TO) annualized return (since Sept 2017): 12.84% (total return 167.80%)
