The “Big Five” Canadian banks include Royal Bank of Canada, Toronto Dominion Bank (TD Canada Trust), Bank of Nova Scotia, Bank of Montreal and Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC). Are there other viable options?
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BMO credit cards: A breakdown of the bank’s best cards 2021 May 4th
Along with Canada’s other big banks, BMO (Bank of Montreal) offers the stability that stems from a long history as an established institution. BMO was founded in 1817, making it Canada’s oldest incorporated bank, and it’s been the nation’s fourth largest since 2018. Due, in part, to its clos.... More »
Best No-Fee Bank Accounts in Canada + MORE Oct 6th
Tired of paying monthly fees when you bank? If so, you may want to consider switching to a no-fee bank account. Unfortunately, Canada’s big banks offer little in the way of free chequing accounts, unless you can maintain a high balance in your account each month.
If you’re willing to con.... More »
The best GIC rates in Canada for 2025 + MORE Dec 2nd
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.
Why trust us
MoneySense is an award-winning magazine, helping Canadians navigate m.... More »
The best GIC rates in Canada for 2024 + MORE Dec 23rd
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.
Why trust us
MoneySense is an award-winning magazine, helping Canadians navigat.... More »
What to do when your mortgage renewal is declined + MORE Aug 27th
If you have a mortgage, you probably know that you need to renew it every so often—typically every two to five years depending on the term you choose—until you pay it off. What you might not realize, however, is that your lender is under no obligation to renew that mortgage contract when your te.... More »
What Is a Credit Bureau? Important Information for Canadian Consumers
– canadianfinanceblog.com
Whether we realize it or not, credit bureaus have a significant impact on our financial lives. The information they provide to lenders can determine mortgage rates, lending amounts, and credit card approvals. But what exactly is a credit bureau, and what can you do with their information?
What Is a Credit Bureau?
A credit bureau, also known as a credit reporting agency, is a company that collects information from banks or other financial institutions about your credit and lending history. Lenders use this information when making lending decisions to determine your creditworthiness.
The following is information reported to a credit bureau:
What Is a Credit Bureau?
A credit bureau, also known as a credit reporting agency, is a company that collects information from banks or other financial institutions about your credit and lending history. Lenders use this information when making lending decisions to determine your creditworthiness.
The following is information reported to a credit bureau:
Personal/demographic information
Credit account information
Credit inquiry information
Collections information and public records (e.g., bankruptcy)
The 3 Major Credit Bureaus in Canada
There are 2 major consumer credit bureaus in Canada, Equifax, and Transunion. Both are public, independent, privately-owned companies traded on the New York Stock Exchange…


