Canada’s other banks continue to adapt

Article Excerpt

The big banks in Canada face several challenges. These include low interest rates, which cut the amount they earn on new loans, and competition from smaller firms that use new online technologies (called “fintech”) to attract customers. However, they (including CIBC—see page 91) are cutting their costs and making acquisitions. That will continue to push up their profits, and give them more room for dividend increases. ROYAL BANK OF CANADA $80 (Toronto symbol RY; Conservative Growth and Income Portfolios, Finance sector; Shares outstanding: 1.5 billion; Market cap: $120.0 billion; Price-to-sales ratio: 3.3; Dividend yield: 4.2%; TSINetwork Rating: Above Average; www.rbc.com) continues to expand in the U.S. In November 2015, it paid $5.5 billion U.S. in cash and shares for Los Angeles-based City National Bank. That firm lends to both wealthy individuals and businesses in the entertainment, technology and health care industries. The bank also sold its home and auto insurance business to Aviva Canada for a $235 million gain. Regulations…