Ottawa has a diversified economy, growing business ties with Asia, and increasingly favourable tax policies ideal for financial services firms to thrive.

All five of Canada’s largest banks have significant operations in Ottawa. Several international banks also have offices in the city. As well, Ottawa is also home to the Bank of Canada, Export Development Canada and the Business Development Bank of Canada.

Canada’s banks are ranked first globally by the World Economic Forum. For the past two years, Moody’s Investors Service has also ranked Canada’s banking system first in the world for its financial strength.

As the nation’s capital, Ottawa is also the centre for financial regulatory institutions in Canada. The city is also a major centre for the development of financial services software, information technology support and business process outsourcing.