A 35 year track record
As of the end of 2022, the 30-year average rate of return using the “Beating the TSX” method was 12.27%. To put this in context, the benchmark index rate of return was 9.53% over the same time period.
There is not a single mutual fund in Canada with a track record of such out-performance. In fact, BTSX has outperformed the benchmark over the last 3, 5, 10, 20 and 30 years.
Furthermore, BTSX has a long history of outsized returns, even after temporarily lagging the markets as it did in 2020.
The following graph shows the performance of BTSX vs the benchmark index for the past 35 years; 2022 is at the top and 1987 is at the bottom. As you can see, BTSX has a strong history of beating the index, with a few notable exceptions.
Not just beating the benchmark – doubling it
What this means in real terms is that $10 000 invested using the BTSX strategy 35 years ago would be worth $364,280 today. That same $10 000 invested in the benchmark index would be worth only $162,367 – a 124% difference.
Performance data since 1987
Here is all the performance data going all the way back to 1987. Rates of return indicate total returns (price change + dividends). All dividends are considered reinvested. The index returns are approximated by the investable TSX 60 ETF by iShares: XIU. Data from 1987 – 2002 is based on May to May intervals because this is how the originator of BTSX, David Stanley, calculated the returns. Since 2002, calculations are based on Dec 31st closing prices.
If you are interested in trying Beating the TSX for part of your portfolio, why not keep your investments organized by opening a new account with Canada’s top online brokerage, QTrade? I’ve been using them for over ten years and wouldn’t think of switching. Right now they have a pretty juicy offer for readers of this blog: up to $2000 cash back! Just sign up using THIS LINK and enter promo code CASHBONUS2023. (Using these links may result in a benefit to DividendStrategy, but the recommendation is 100% authentic)
