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Canada's Federal Election 2025: A Nation Prepares to Vote

On Monday, April 28, Canadians will head to the polls to elect members of the House of Commons for the 45th Canadian Parliament. This election marks a pivotal moment in the nation's political landscape, with key issues such as climate change, economic recovery, and healthcare reform dominating party platforms. Advance polls have already seen record-breaking participation, with over 7.3 million Canadians casting their votes early. The election will also introduce a new 343-seat electoral map, reflecting changes from the 2021 census. As the nation gears up for election day, voters are encouraged to check their registration status and polling locations through the Elections Canada website. With the stakes high and the future uncertain, this election promises to shape Canada's trajectory for years to come.

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Canadian Bank Fees: A Costly Affair

 

In a recent eye-opening report by North Economics, it was revealed that Canadians are paying over $7.7 billion annually in ‘excess’ bank fees. This staggering figure has sparked concern as the federal government is already taking steps to mitigate bank fees.

The Alberta-based consultancy firm’s analysis showed that the fees charged by Canada’s Big Five banks—RBC, TD, BMO, CIBC, and Scotiabank—are significantly higher than those in the U.K. and Australia. The report highlights the disparity in charges for everyday banking services, including monthly account fees, non-sufficient funds, overdrafts, and ATM usage at other banks.

Alain de Bossart, the managing director of North Economics, compared the retail banking profits to deposits ratio of 2022 between Canadian and British banks. The findings suggest that the Big Five banks in Canada had an ‘excess’ income of $7.73 billion, which translates to roughly $250 per Canadian.

The Canadian Bankers Association responded by emphasizing the value and accessibility provided by the competitive banking system in Canada. They also mentioned that a significant percentage of Canadians do not pay any account fees.

This report has intensified the dialogue on bank fees in Canada, with many calling for a more consumer-friendly approach that aligns with global standards.

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