Hi Kevin,
Let's start with XTC.TO as I know it well. I have been long the company for a number of years now, but am sitting on losses. Why am I keeping it? I still believe in the company. The entire re-negotiation of NAFTA set the company back. It was growing at an impressive pace and had big plans to expand into Mexico.
However, when Trump took office he turned his focus on NAFTA and XTC pulled back its investment plans in the country and decided to hang tight as the situation unfolded. It took two years before the situation was finally resolved. Unfortunately, in the meantime the auto sector (which is cyclical) began a downtrend, then COVID19 hit.
Once we get out the other side of the pandemic, I think XTC is still well positioned. It is cheap, and the dividend appears to be well covered. It may take some time, but I believe it will be a winner over the long term. Just don't expect any big short term moves.
As for Cogeco, it rebounded quite nicely in 2019 from a dismal 2018. In 2020, it has outperformed and has been relatively flat but COVID 19 stunted its momentum.
It is the parent company to Cogeco Communications (CCA), and as such has a little bit more complicated structure. Personally, I would rather the company acquire CCA and reduce this bloated structure. It is a trend that began in late 2018 when ENB consolidated its subsidiaries, and POW followed suit in early 2020 when it acquired PWF. Its fortunes are very much tied to the telecom and media industries. Since these are currently viewed as defensive in nature, the company has held up well during the pandemic.
Analysts expect negative earnings growth over the next few years, which is probably why it trades at a discount to its peers. That being said, it does generate decent cash flow and the dividend appears well covered and is likely to be maintained.
Bottom line, it provides decent value and income. However, future growth prospects are currently limited. At least right now.
Mat