
Royal Bank of Canada is one of the largest banks in Canada, with a long history dating back to 1869. Founded by a group of businessmen in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the bank has grown significantly over the years.
The bank's early years were marked by a series of mergers and acquisitions, which helped it expand its reach across the country. By the early 20th century, Royal Bank of Canada had established itself as a major player in the Canadian banking industry.
Today, the bank operates under the RBC brand, with over 80,000 employees serving customers in more than 30 countries. Its global presence is a testament to its commitment to growth and expansion.
Royal Bank of Canada is also known for its commitment to community development, with a focus on supporting small businesses and promoting financial literacy.
Bank Operations
RBC has a wide range of credit cards that cater to different needs and preferences.
You can find the best RBC credit cards by visiting their website or by visiting a branch in person.
RBC offers online banking services that allow you to manage your accounts and bank from the comfort of your own home.
Their website is user-friendly and easy to navigate, making it simple to find what you're looking for.
RBC has a large network of branches and ATMs across Canada, making it convenient to access your money when you need it.
Account Types and Services
RBC offers a variety of account types to suit different needs, including savings, chequing, and credit cards. You can choose from a range of options to reduce or waive monthly fees.
RBC savings accounts are designed to help you grow your money, with options like the RBC Day to Day Savings account that offers one free debit transaction per month. The RBC High Interest eSavings account earns a higher interest rate than a typical savings account.
Some RBC savings accounts are designed for specific needs, such as the RBC Leo's Young Savers Account, which is a savings account for kids 12 and under with unlimited debit transactions and Interac e-transfers. You can also find savings accounts for international currencies, like the RBC U.S. High Interest eSavings and RBC Euro eSavings.
RBC chequing accounts offer a range of options, including unlimited debit transactions for a monthly fee, or free Interac e-transfers and 12 free debits per month for a lower fee. The RBC VIP Banking account provides unlimited worldwide debit transactions and eliminates RBC-charged worldwide ATM fees for a higher monthly fee.
Here are some key features of RBC chequing accounts:
RBC also offers credit card accounts, including travel, rewards, cash-back, low-interest, student, and business cards. You can choose from options like the RBC ION Visa, RBC Cash Back Mastercard, and RBC Avion Visa Infinite.
Account Types
RBC offers a wide selection of accounts to choose from, including chequing, credit card, and savings accounts. Each type of account has its own unique features and benefits.
If you're looking for a chequing account, RBC has several options to consider. RBC Advantage Banking offers unlimited debit transactions for an $11.95 monthly fee.
RBC also offers a variety of credit card options, including travel, rewards, cash-back, and low-interest cards. The RBC ION Visa and RBC ION+ Visa are just a couple of the many credit cards available.
When it comes to savings accounts, RBC has several options to help you grow your money. The RBC High Interest eSavings account earns a higher interest rate than a typical savings account.
Here's a summary of some of the key features of RBC's chequing and savings accounts:
Overall, RBC's account options are designed to meet the needs of different customers. Whether you're looking for a chequing account, credit card, or savings account, RBC has something to offer.
Investing Accounts
RBC offers a variety of investing accounts to help you manage your finances.
RBC Direct Investing is a great option for online stock trades. You can manage your investments with ease and flexibility.
TFSAs, or Tax-Free Savings Accounts, are a popular choice for saving money. They allow you to grow your savings without paying taxes.
You can also use RRSPs, or Registered Retirement Savings Plans, to save for retirement. These plans offer tax benefits to help you grow your retirement funds.
Other investing accounts offered by RBC include RRIFs, FHSAs, RESPs, RDSPs, and GICs. These accounts provide a range of options for different financial goals and needs.
Here are some of the investing accounts offered by RBC:
- RBC Direct Investing
- Tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs)
- Registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs)
- Registered retirement income funds (RRIFs)
- First home savings accounts (FHSAs)
- Registered education savings plans (RESPs)
- Registered disability savings plans (RDSPs)
- Guaranteed investment certificates (GICs)
Discrimination
RBC has been involved in a controversy surrounding discrimination in account opening. The bank was accused of refusing to open US dollar accounts for people of certain nationalities.
Canadian citizens with dual citizenship in countries with US sanctions, such as Cuba, Iran, Iraq, Myanmar, North Korea, or Sudan, were affected.
RBC clarified that compliance with US laws does not represent an endorsement by the bank.
The bank specified that it opens accounts for dual citizens of sanctioned countries with some exceptions.
RBC had also closed the accounts of some Iranian-Canadian citizens.
Fees
Fees can add up quickly when banking with Royal Bank of Canada. The bank charges a non-sufficient funds fee of $45.
If you find yourself overdrafting, be aware that RBC charges $5 per overdraft, plus a handling fee and applicable overdraft interest. This can add up quickly, so it's essential to keep a close eye on your account balance.
ATM withdrawals outside of RBC's network can cost between $3 to $5. This is something to consider if you frequently withdraw cash from ATMs that aren't part of RBC's network.
Inactivity fees can also be a concern, with RBC charging $20 in years two to eight, and $40 after nine years. This is a good reminder to regularly review your account activity to avoid these fees.
If you're looking to transfer your RRSP, TFSA, or RRIF to another institution, be prepared for a fee of $150.
Investor Protection and Controversies
Royal Bank of Canada has faced controversies and regulatory issues. In 2024, the bank terminated two high-ranking employees due to an undisclosed personal relationship that led to preferential treatment.
RBC has also been fined for its practices. In 2014, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission fined the bank $35,000,000 for engaging in over 1,000 wash sales, fictitious sales, and other non-competitive practices.
This shows that RBC has faced significant consequences for its actions, highlighting the importance of regulatory oversight and investor protection.
Is My Money Secure?
RBC is one of more than 80 Canadian financial institutions that insures its customers' deposits with coverage from the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation, or CDIC.
CDIC insures several types of accounts, including registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) and tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs), to a maximum of $100,000 each.
Your money is protected in the event of the bank's sudden collapse.
RBC also provides zero liability protection for its credit card customers, so you won't be responsible for paying the charges if someone illegally uses your card in person or online.
Investor Protection
RBC has faced regulatory action for engaging in non-competitive practices, including over 1,000 wash sales and fictitious sales, resulting in a $35,000,000 fine from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission in 2014.
The severity of this fine highlights the importance of investor protection in the financial industry.
RBC has various investment accounts that cater to different needs, including RBC Direct Investing, which allows online management of stock trades.
Tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs), registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs), and other types of accounts are also available through RBC.
These accounts provide a range of options for investors to manage their finances and achieve their financial goals.
Here are some of the investment accounts offered by RBC:
- RBC Direct Investing
- Tax-free savings accounts (TFSAs)
- Registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs)
- Registered retirement income funds (RRIFs)
- First home savings accounts (FHSAs)
- Registered education savings plans (RESPs)
- Registered disability savings plans (RDSPs)
- Guaranteed investment certificates (GICs)
Controversies
RBC terminated CFO Nadine Ahn and Ken Mason, vice president and head of capital and term funding, on April 5, 2024, due to an undisclosed personal relationship that led to preferential treatment.
This preferential treatment included a promotion and compensation increases for Ken Mason.
Leadership and Governance
The Royal Bank of Canada has a clear and structured leadership approach, with the office of chairman of the Board created in October 1949 for outgoing president Sydney Dobson.
The chairmanship was initially tied to the current or former president, a tradition that continued until 2001.
After John Cleghorn's retirement in 2001, the chairmanship was made a separate, non-executive position, marking a significant shift in the bank's leadership dynamics.
Head Offices
The Royal Bank of Canada has had a few different head offices over the years. The bank's head office was initially located at the Merchants' Bank of Halifax Building in Halifax, Nova Scotia from 1864 to 1907.
RBC relocated its head office to the Four Pillars Building in Montreal in 1907, where it remained until 1928. This building was later demolished, but its facade remains.
In 1928, RBC moved its head office to the Old Royal Bank Building in Montreal, where it stayed for a short time before moving again. The bank has a long history of changing its head office location.
RBC moved its head office to Place Ville-Marie in Montreal in 1962, but it wasn't long before the majority of its critical head-office functions were shifted to Toronto.
Leadership
The office of chairman of the Board was created in October 1949 for outgoing president Sydney Dobson. This marked a significant shift in leadership at the organization.
Until 2001, the chairmanship was given to the current or former president. This tradition continued for over five decades.
Here are the chairmen of the Board, listed in chronological order:
Financial Performance
Royal Bank of Canada's financial performance is a story of consistent growth and stability. The bank reported a net income of $4.2 billion in its fourth-quarter report, a year-over-year increase of 18%. This growth is impressive, especially considering the integration of HSBC Canada's operations.
The acquisition of HSBC Canada has already started contributing to earnings, adding an extra $265 million to RBC's bottom line in the fourth quarter alone. Total revenue for the quarter climbed 13% year over year, and diluted earnings per share (EPS) rose to $11.25 for the trailing 12 months.
RBC's financial health is further supported by its strong capital ratios, with a common equity tier-one (CET1) ratio of 13.2% in Q4, well above regulatory requirements.
Key Statistics
The key statistics reveal a lot about the financial performance of RY:TOR. The stock opened at 169.55 and closed at 169.40, indicating a relatively stable start to the day.
The average volume of shares traded is a significant 3.21 million, suggesting a high level of liquidity in the market. The stock's price has moved over +1.01% to 170.37, a notable increase.
Here are the key statistics in a concise table:
The market capitalization of RY:TOR is a substantial 239.34 billion CAD, indicating a large and established company. The P/E ratio is 15.04, suggesting a relatively stable valuation.
The Bottom Line
RBC stock remains a top contender for investors seeking reliable dividend income and long-term growth. Its recent earnings highlight impressive financial strength, while the HSBC Canada acquisition is already proving to be a value-add.
The bank's financial health is further supported by its strong capital ratios, with a common equity tier-one (CET1) ratio of 13.2% in Q4, well above regulatory requirements.
RBC's ability to pursue strategic initiatives like share buybacks and dividend hikes without compromising its stability is a testament to its financial strength. Its CET1 ratio has allowed the bank to confidently invest in its future.
The bank's dividend story continues to shine, with a return on equity (ROE) of 13.68% and a diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $11.25 for the trailing 12 months. This combination of steady payouts and strong earnings makes RBC stock an excellent core holding for income-focused investors.
Total revenue for the quarter climbed 13% year over year, and the acquisition of HSBC Canada has already added $265 million to RBC's bottom line in the fourth quarter alone. This growth is a significant contributor to the bank's financial strength.
Pros
RBC's financial performance is impressive, with a net income of $4.2 billion in its fourth-quarter report, a 18% year-over-year increase.
This growth is supported by strength in personal and commercial banking, as well as the integration of HSBC Canada's operations. The acquisition of HSBC Canada has already started contributing to earnings, with an additional $265 million added to RBC's bottom line in the fourth quarter alone.
RBC's total revenue for the quarter climbed 13% year over year, and diluted earnings per share (EPS) rose to $11.25 for the trailing 12 months. A return on equity (ROE) of 13.68% further solidifies RBC's financial health.
The bank's capital ratios are also strong, with a common equity tier-one (CET1) ratio of 13.2% in Q4, well above regulatory requirements. This capital strength has allowed RBC to pursue strategic initiatives like share buybacks and dividend hikes without compromising its stability.
Here are some key financial metrics that highlight RBC's financial performance:
Comparison and Evaluation
RBC has a significant presence in Canada, with over 4,000 ATMs and 1,100+ branches across the country.
In comparison to other big banks, RBC stands out for its extensive network of ATMs and branches. RBC's 4,000+ ATMs and 1,100+ branches far surpass the numbers of some of its competitors, such as National Bank of Canada with 2,000+ ATMs and 360+ branches.
RBC's deposits are also insured by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation, providing customers with an added layer of security for their accounts.
Here's a comparison of RBC's network with some of its competitors:
Better Stock: Compared to TD?
When comparing Royal Bank and TD Bank, it's clear that they've delivered very different results for investors in the past few years. Royal Bank has been a standout performer.
Royal Bank has outpaced TD Bank in terms of stock growth. In contrast, TD Bank's results have been more lackluster.
Their differing results are a key consideration for investors deciding which bank stock to choose.
Pros and Cons
RBC Bank has its advantages, but it's essential to weigh them against its drawbacks.
RBC offers a wide range of financial products and services, including personal banking, credit cards, and investments.
However, no bank is perfect, and RBC has its share of cons.
RBC's customer service has received praise from many users, with some even calling it a highlight of their banking experience.
But, like any bank, RBC has its limitations, including limited branch locations in certain areas.
RBC's online banking platform is user-friendly and accessible, making it easy to manage your accounts on the go.

On the other hand, RBC's fees for certain services can be steep, so it's essential to read the fine print before signing up.
RBC's rewards program for credit card holders has been a game-changer for many users, offering cashback and other perks.
However, some users have reported difficulties with RBC's mobile banking app, citing issues with login and navigation.
How to Compare Large Numbers
Comparing large numbers can be overwhelming, but it's essential to make informed decisions. For instance, if you're considering banking options, you'll want to compare the number of ATMs and branches offered by different institutions.
RBC, for example, has over 4,000 ATMs and 1,100 branches. This is a significant advantage over some of its competitors, like National Bank of Canada, which has around 2,000 ATMs and 360 branches.
To make comparisons easier, let's break down the numbers:
By looking at these numbers, you can see that RBC has the most ATMs, while TD Bank has the most branches. However, it's essential to consider other factors, like insurance, when making your decision.
International Presence
Royal Bank of Canada has a significant international presence, with operations in 36 countries.
The bank has a strong presence in the United States, with over 1,100 ATMs and 70 branches.
It also has a significant presence in the Caribbean, with operations in 14 countries.
The bank offers a range of products and services to its international clients, including personal banking, commercial banking, and investment services.
In addition, Royal Bank of Canada has a large network of correspondent banking relationships, allowing it to provide services to clients in over 150 countries.
Sponsorship and Partnerships
RBC is a major supporter of cultural events, sponsoring the Toronto International Film Festival and the RBC Taylor Prize, a literary award for non-fiction writing in Canada.
The bank also partners with organizations to promote women's entrepreneurship and recognizes achievement in Canadian theatre through the Siminovitch Prize.
RBC is one of Canada's largest sponsors of amateur sports, employing dozens of top-tier athletes as part-time spokespeople through the RBC Olympians program.
Memberships

RBC is a member of the Canadian Bankers Association, which is a group that includes Canada's Big Five banks. This is a significant membership that shows RBC's commitment to the banking industry in Canada.
The Canadian Bankers Association is a respected organization that works to promote the interests of Canadian banks. This membership gives RBC access to a network of other major banks and helps to establish its reputation as a trusted financial institution.
RBC is also a registered member with the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation, a federal agency that insures deposits at all of Canada's chartered banks. This means that RBC's customers have their deposits insured up to a certain amount.
Here are some of the other notable memberships that RBC holds:
- CarIFS ATM Network
- Interac
- Mastercard (in Canadian and Caribbean markets)
- NYCEpoint of sale Network
- Plus Network
- Global Banking Alliance for Women
Sponsorship
RBC is a major player in cultural events, sponsoring the Toronto International Film Festival and the RBC Taylor Prize, a literary award for non-fiction writing in Canada.
It also partners with the University of Toronto to revive the Siminovitch Prize in Theatre, recognizing achievement in Canadian theatre.
RBC is one of Canada's largest sponsors of amateur sports, and it's the longest-running Canadian sponsor of the Olympic Games.
The bank employs dozens of top-tier amateur athletes as part-time spokespeople through its RBC Olympians program.
RBC owns naming rights to several prominent venues, including the RBC Centre, RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg, RBC Canadian Open, and RBC Heritage.
It previously held the naming rights to the PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, from 2002 to 2012.
RBC also owns the naming rights to the Top 25 Canadian Immigrants Award, presented annually by Canadian Immigrant since 2013.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any Royal Bank of Canada in the US?
Yes, Royal Bank of Canada has a presence in the US through its New York state bank and a representative office in Dallas, Texas.
Is Royal Bank of Canada a good company?
Royal Bank of Canada has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 from over 17,530 employee reviews, indicating a highly positive work environment. With 71% of employees recommending RBC to a friend, it's definitely worth exploring further.
Who owns Royal Canadian bank?
Royal Canadian Bank's ownership is primarily held by individual investors and public companies, with institutional investors owning a smaller portion. Approximately 73.45% of the company's stock is owned by these groups.
Can a US citizen open a bank account at the Royal Bank of Canada?
Yes, a US citizen can open a bank account at the Royal Bank of Canada, as long as they meet the age requirement of 18 years or older. US citizens can apply for an account online or in-branch.
Sources
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Bank_of_Canada
- https://markets.ft.com/data/equities/tearsheet/summary
- https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/royal-bank-of-canada
- https://www.fool.ca/2024/12/30/is-royal-bank-of-canada-stock-a-buy-for-its-3-3-dividend-yield-3/
- https://www.nerdwallet.com/ca/banking/royal-bank-canada-rbc-review
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