The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday, Nov. 27, edition that Ontario's securities regulator, along with Canada's investment industry watchdog, has started an investigation into sales practices at Canadian bank branches. The Globe's Stefanie Marotta writes that the Ontario Securities Commission and the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization announced on Tuesday that the first phase of the review will focus on understanding the sales culture within banks to identify and assess the extent of potential issues.
This follows a March report by CBC, which probed allegations of high-pressure sales tactics for banking products and mutual funds at certain Canadian banks. Canadian Bankers Association says keeping strong customer relationships is fundamentally important for banks. CBA spokesman Maggie Cheung says, "Canada's banks are steadfast in their commitment to providing advice that is clear, transparent and aligns with helping customers reach their financial goals." Canadian banks have faced scrutiny for aggressive sales practices before. In 2018 a review of the sector found that branches were more like stores that sell advice and investments.
As a result, Canadians could be sold unsuitable products.
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