What happens during a postal strike?
When Canada Post workers strike, the deliveries of mail and packages slow down or stop altogether. That means:
- Delayed shipping for online orders
- Higher delivery costs for small businesses
- A rush to find alternative shipping options
These hinderances can also spark investing opportunities for savvy investors. The disruption in package and mail delivery means that other companies can benefit — and this cn be an opportunity for investors willing to action, while being mindful of risks.
For investors, they is to keep an eye out for signals regarding which companies are prepared, and which ones might struggle. To help, here are trends to watch:
1. Invest in logistics: Delivery companies could see a boost
When Canada Post isn’t running, there's a spike in demand for private courier and delivery companies. Companies like Purolator, FedEx (NYSE:FDX), UPS (NYSE:UPS) and TFI International (TSX:TFII) often fill the gap. Even Cargojet (TSX:CJT), which specializes in overnight air cargo, could benefit.
If you're investing in logistics, now is a good time to watch stock prices for delivery companies, they might rise on increased demand; look at quarterly earnings to see if volume spikes during a strike; consider ETFs or mutual funds that include logistics or transportation holdings.
2. Digital payments and fintech could grow faster
Postal delays can also push more people — especially seniors or small businesses — to move away from paper cheques and bills. That could help digital-first companies grow faster.
Investors can look at:
- Payment platforms like Nuvei (TSX: NVEI)
- Companies that power online banking and pay systems
- ETFs with exposure to fintech and digital finance
These shifts take time, but a strike often gives people the push to go digital, and that’s good for companies in the space.
3. Retailers under pressure — or ready to shine
If you’re invested in retail or e-commerce companies, a postal strike can test how well they handle disruption.
Examine publicly traded companies using the following lens:
- Can they offer local pickup or use other couriers?
- Will they raise prices or eat the extra cost?
- Do they have loyal customers who’ll wait, or will shoppers switch brands?
Retailers with good logistics plans — like Walmart, Canadian Tire or Loblaws — may do better than smaller sellers that rely on Canada Post for deliveries.
4. Inflation trends and consumer stress
A postal strike can also tell us something about the bigger economic picture, especially inflation. If shipping costs go up and delays stretch on, it can raise prices and frustrate shoppers. That affects:
- Consumer confidence
- Retail sales
- Stock performance in sectors like consumer discretionary or e-commerce
If you're watching inflation-sensitive areas (like REITs, utilities or banks), keep an eye on what the federal government and central bank does, in particular, what sectors will they boost or support through ongoing funding.
5. It’s a chance to spot resilient companies
One of the best ways to grow as an investor is to watch how companies handle challenges. A postal strike is a real-time stress test. Use this time to:
- Track how businesses communicate with customers
- Watch for innovative solutions or tech upgrades
- Look for stocks that hold steady — or bounce back quickly — while others drop
These signs can help you build a stronger, more confident portfolio over time.
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Get started todayFinal thoughts: It’s not just about the mail
Even if your portfolio has nothing to do with Canada Post, a strike is still worth paying attention to. It highlights important themes that can impact all companies, and highlight businesses well positioned to grow in the short or long-term. For beginner to intermediate investors, it’s a chance to learn how real-world events affect the markets, and how you can use those events to your advantage.
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