Banking in Canada can be a murky subject – one that we hope to shed some light on with a series of highly informational articles.
Latest News
What You Need to Know About the Canadian Mortgage Stress Test Nov 5th
In late 2017, OSFI, the agency that supervises and regulates Canada’s banks, unveiled a new mortgage stress test, designed to protect Canadian borrowers from increasing debt burdens, and the prospect of rising interest rates. It also served to cool off a couple of Canada’s most expensive housing.... More »
The close: TSX falls with banks as Fed talks hikes + MORE Mar 25th
U.S. stocks break five-week winning streak
.... More »
Low rates, slow growth: Why loose policy isn’t working Oct 8th
When the global financial system had a meltdown in 2008, central banks cut interest rates to rock-bottom levels. The moves likely saved the world from a depression. But after eight years of crisis-level rates, the economy is barely staying afloat. Now, as many consumers rack up big debts while other.... More »
The best GIC rates in Canada for 2025 May 5th
GIC comparison tool
Find the best and most up-to-date GIC rates in Canada using the comparison tool below. Plus, use the filters to assess your estimated rate of return based on the size of your balance.
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MoneySense is an award-winning magazine, helping Canadians navigate m.... More »
EQ Bank Review: The Best Place to Save Your Money? Feb 18th
It’s been a few short years since EQ Bank emerged onto the landscape of Canadian online banks. But while they may seem like the new kid on the block, their roots run much deeper.
Who Owns EQ Bank?
EQ Bank is brought to you by Equitable Bank, which has been providing residential and commercial lend.... More »
The outsized gains that Canada’s economy has enjoyed on the back of the housing market can’t continue as a real estate slowdown may already be underway, one of Canada’s big banks warned Wednesday.
A 2.5% high interest savings account sounds better than it is
– moneysense.ca
The battle for your cash is on. A recent survey for the newly re-branded Tangerine found that 59% of Canadians expect a tax refund this year with 37% banking on a refund of $1,000 or more. It’s no wonder online banks including Tangerine as well as PC Financial have both announced 2.5% promotional interest rates on new deposits until June 30 to coincide with tax refund season as well as the closure of Ally bank by RBC on April 30.
While 2.5% looks at least twice as good as the typical high interest savings account, I wouldn’t recommend moving your money because of it. The extra interest on a new $5,000 deposit will only net you an extra $25 or so between now and June 30.
Having said that, if you were looking to open a high interest savings account with an online bank anyway, now is as good a time as any. Be sure to choose the TFSA version of the high interest savings account if you still have contribution room to maximize the benefit.
If you don’t need the money in the short term however, consider investing it in an RRSP for even greater tax efficiency or investing the funds within your TFSA to increase your chances of at least outpacing inflation…
While 2.5% looks at least twice as good as the typical high interest savings account, I wouldn’t recommend moving your money because of it. The extra interest on a new $5,000 deposit will only net you an extra $25 or so between now and June 30.
Having said that, if you were looking to open a high interest savings account with an online bank anyway, now is as good a time as any. Be sure to choose the TFSA version of the high interest savings account if you still have contribution room to maximize the benefit.
If you don’t need the money in the short term however, consider investing it in an RRSP for even greater tax efficiency or investing the funds within your TFSA to increase your chances of at least outpacing inflation…
