1.BMO Aggregate Bond Index ETF
ZAG.TO (TSX)
The BMO Aggregate Bond Index ETF serves as a core option for investors seeking reliable fixed income exposure in Canada. With a dividend yield of 3.48%, it aims to provide consistent income, though its 1-year return stands at -3.73% and a 5-year return at -14.89%. This ETF is particularly appealing for those looking to diversify their portfolios with a top-rated bond investment.
Pros:
- Fixed income exposure
- Diversification benefits
Cons:
- Negative returns recently
- Interest rate risk
2.Vanguard FTSE Canada All-Cap Index ETF
VCN (TSX)
The Vanguard FTSE Canada All-Cap Index ETF offers investors a low-fee and highly liquid option for broad exposure to Canadian equity, available on the TSX. With a solid 1-year return of 18.88% and a remarkable 5-year return of 75.36%, this ETF is an attractive choice for those seeking growth in a diverse range of Canadian stocks. Additionally, it boasts a dividend yield of 2.02%, making it appealing for income-focused investors.
Pros:
- Broad market exposure
- Low fees
Cons:
- Market volatility
- Dependence on Canadian equities
3.BMO S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF
ZCN.TO (TSX)
The BMO S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF is a low-cost option for investors seeking broad exposure to the Canadian equity market. With a solid 1-year return of 19.94% and a 5-year return of 73.88%, this ETF offers an attractive dividend yield of 2.01%. Its strategy focuses on delivering diversified access to financially healthy companies, making it a strong contender for those looking to enhance their portfolio with Canadian equities.
Pros:
- Low-cost investment option
- Tracks a major Canadian index
Cons:
- Market risk exposure
- Dependence on Canadian economy
4.Vanguard All-Equity ETF Portfolio
VEQT.TO (TSX)
The Vanguard All-Equity ETF Portfolio offers a hands-off investment strategy with a globally diversified equity focus, making it an attractive option for passive investors in Canada. With a solid 1-year return of 18.82% and a remarkable 5-year return of 74.53%, this top-rated ETF features a dividend yield of 1.41%, reflecting its commitment to providing reliable income from a range of financially healthy companies. This all-in-one portfolio is designed for those seeking a simple yet effective way to gain exposure to the equity market.
Pros:
- Globally diversified equity exposure
- Hands-off investing approach
Cons:
- Market risk exposure
- Potential for high volatility
5.Horizons S&P 500 Index ETF
HXS (TSX)
The Horizons S&P 500 Index ETF offers Canadian investors a straightforward way to gain exposure to the U.S. equity market by tracking the S&P 500. With impressive returns of 18.84% over the past year and a remarkable 104.45% over five years, this ETF is an attractive option for those seeking growth in financially healthy companies. Its recognition as a top-rated investment enhances its appeal for both seasoned and new investors looking to diversify their portfolios.
Pros:
- Strong historical performance
- Access to U.S. large-cap stocks
Cons:
- Market volatility
- Currency risk for Canadian investors
6.Horizons S&P/TSX 60 ETF
HXT (TSX)
The Horizons S&P/TSX 60 ETF is a Canada-focused investment option that aims to track the large-cap TSX 60 index. Boasting impressive returns of 21.44% over the past year and a remarkable 98.17% over five years, this ETF is ideal for investors seeking exposure to financially healthy companies in Canada's top market. Recognized for its strong performance, it's a solid choice for those looking to capitalize on the growth potential of Canadian equities.
Pros:
- High historical returns
- Focus on large-cap Canadian stocks
Cons:
- Potential for high volatility
- Limited to Canadian market
7.iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF
XIU.TO (TSX)
The iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF is a top-rated investment choice, concentrating on the largest 60 Canadian companies listed on the TSX. With a robust 1-year return of 18.8% and a remarkable 5-year return of 71.61%, this blue-chip ETF offers investors a reliable option for long-term growth, complemented by a dividend yield of 2.09%. Its liquidity and focus on financially healthy firms make it an attractive pick for those seeking to enhance their equity portfolio.
Pros:
- Strong historical returns
- Broad exposure to Canadian equities
Cons:
- Market volatility risk
- Dependence on Canadian economy
8.Vanguard FTSE Global All Cap ex Canada Index ETF
VXC.TO (TSX)
The Vanguard FTSE Global All Cap ex Canada Index ETF offers Canadian investors an attractive option for broad international equity exposure, emphasizing global diversification outside of Canada. With a solid 1-year return of 18.81% and a remarkable 5-year return of 70.92%, this ETF is positioned well for those seeking growth opportunities. Additionally, it features a dividend yield of approximately 1.14%, appealing to investors looking for reliable income alongside capital appreciation.
Pros:
- Global diversification
- Access to international markets
Cons:
- Excludes Canadian companies
- Currency risk
9.iShares Core S&P 500 Index ETF
XUS.TO (TSX)
The iShares Core S&P 500 Index ETF offers Canadian investors a solid pathway to U.S. large-cap exposure, achieving a notable 1-year return of 17.75% and an impressive 5-year return of 94.49%. With a dividend yield of 1.15%, this fund is particularly attractive for those seeking reliable income from financially healthy companies. This ETF stands out as a popular choice among Canadian investors looking to diversify their portfolios with top-rated U.S. equities.
Pros:
- Access to U.S. large-cap stocks
- Strong historical performance
Cons:
- Currency risk for Canadian investors
- Market volatility
10.iShares Core S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF
XIC.TO (TSX)
The iShares Core S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF offers broad exposure to large and mid-cap Canadian stocks, making it a widely utilized option for investors seeking a core holding in Canadian equity. With a solid 1-year return of 19.42% and a remarkable 5-year return of 75.65%, this ETF also provides a dividend yield of approximately 1.98%, appealing to those looking for both growth and income. Its strong performance and focus on the TSX ensure it remains a top choice for investors wanting to diversify into the Canadian market.
Pros:
- Low expense ratio
- Diverse exposure to Canadian market
Cons:
- Lower yield compared to some alternatives
- Market fluctuations
Final Words
As you consider the best ETFs this October in Canada, remember that diversifying your investments can significantly enhance your portfolio's resilience. Take time to compare your options and conduct thorough research to find the best fit for your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
The iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF (XIU.TO) is a blue-chip Canadian equity ETF that focuses on the largest 60 companies listed on the TSX. It is often favored for its liquidity and potential for long-term growth.
As of September 2026, the iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF has shown a year-to-date return of 12.96% and a 1-year return of 18.80%. Over the past three years, it has achieved a remarkable return of 79.93%.
The iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF has a dividend yield of 2.09%, with distributions paid quarterly. The next dividend payment is $0.2870, following the previous dividend date of August 31, 2026.
The iShares S&P/TSX 60 Index ETF is often compared to other Canadian ETFs like the iShares Core S&P/TSX Capped Composite Index ETF. Investors typically evaluate these funds based on their fee structures, index exposures, and historical performance.
Investing in ETFs carries various risks, including market risk, liquidity risk, and tracking error. It's important for investors to assess their risk tolerance and understand the specific risks associated with the ETFs they choose.
When selecting an ETF, consider factors such as the fund's expense ratio, the underlying index it tracks, historical performance, and the sectors or regions it invests in. Additionally, assessing the fund's liquidity and dividend distribution policies can help you make an informed decision.
