1001 ET - BCE has outperformed peers year-to-date, and TD Cowen's Vince Valentini thinks there may be more upside to go. The analyst says in a report that the stock may be more attractive when the broader markets are more uncertain. "As market volatility increases, investors are likely to favor defensive plays, and BCE's predictable growth, attractive dividend yield of 5.0%, and secure payout ratio of 61% on 2027 estimates make it a compelling choice," Valentini says. (adriano.marchese@wsj.com)

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

February 20, 2026 10:01 ET (15:01 GMT)

Copyright (c) 2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.