Meet Canada, the Fiscal Rock
Canada has been the only G7 country running surplus budgets in recent years. The 2006 Canadian budget plan projected the country's 9th straight surplus — the longest stretch of surpluses since Canada became a country in 1867.
- Internationally recognized with a AAA credit rating : According to Moody’s Financial Strength ratings, Canadian banks rank first among the G7 in terms of their intrinsic credit worthiness.
- Canada 's debt-to-GDP ratio is at 33.8 per cent in 2004-2005 and Canada’s objective is to reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio to 25 per cent by 2013–14.
- Over the past five years, Canada’s inflation rate averaged 2.3% lower than the inflation rate recorded in the U.S. over the same period.
Canada’s Financial Institutions: Banks You Can Bank On
Canada's well-regulated financial institutions — banks, trust companies, cooperatives, insurance companies and stock exchanges — have demonstrated a stability and competitiveness that has made their services popular around the world. The sector has become one of Canada's major export earners since worldwide liberalization of financial regulations.
- Canada 's other financial institutions are equally impressive, offering investment opportunities that are both lucrative and safe.
- Canada 's Export Development Corporation (EDC) provides trade finance and risk management services to Canadian exporters and foreign investors.