Major Banks Lower Prime Rate to 4.70%: What It Means for Canadians Following Central Bank’s Cut
Canadian Banks Lower Prime Rate to 4.70%, Following Bank of Canada Rate Cut
September 17, 2025 – The Bank of Canada cuts its main rate. In response, Canadian banks lower their prime rate. They set it at 4.70% starting September 18. This rate drops 25 basis points from 4.95%. The change follows a quarter-point cut by the central bank to 2.5%.
• Banks act after the Bank of Canada signals a softer monetary plan.
• Royal Bank of Canada, Toronto-Dominion Bank, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Bank of Montreal, Desjardins Group, National Bank of Canada, Laurentian Bank of Canada, Equitable Bank, and Bank of Nova Scotia agree with the move.
Impact of the Rate Cut
The prime rate guides many loans across Canada. It affects mortgage rates, personal loans, credit cards, and other variable-interest deals. Lowering the rate to 4.70% should ease borrowing costs. Consumers and businesses with variable loans may find relief in tighter conditions.
Analysts view this change as a quick fix for slowing inflation and steady economic growth. Banks and the central bank work together to boost spending and investments.
What Borrowers Should Know
Variable-rate borrowers will see lower charges soon. Homeowners with variable mortgages might pay less each month if their lender passes on the cut.
New borrowers may soon get better loan terms. Experts advise that borrowers watch future monetary moves. Banks may change rates again if economic data shifts.
Conclusion
Canada’s major banks now lower the prime rate. Their decision follows the Bank of Canada’s rate cut. This step shows a clear link between central bank actions and commercial lending. The goal is to ease credit and support the economy amid current challenges.
For more in-depth coverage and analysis, readers are encouraged to subscribe to the Financial Post, which provides ongoing updates on economic policy, market trends, and financial news across Canada.
Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons – Bank buildings in Toronto’s Financial District
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