Savannah Guthrie’s family is offering up to $1 million for the return of her 84-year-old mother, Nancy, she announced in a February 24 Instagram video. “We still believe in a miracle,” the Today anchor said. “We still believe that she can come home.” Nancy was initially reported missing in Arizona on February 1. Law enforcement suspect that she was abducted from her home and have released images that appear to show a masked, armed individual tampering with Nancy’s front-door camera. Although Savannah acknowledged that Nancy may already be “dancing in heaven,” she said her family needs to know where she is so that they can either have a “glorious” homecoming or celebrate her “beautiful, brave, courageous, and noble life.”
In her post caption, Savannah urged anyone with information to contact the FBI at 1-800-225-5324 or reach out to her directly, noting that they can remain anonymous. She also clarified that her family’s reward will be paid only if it is consistent with the criteria for payment set by the FBI, which has offered up to $100,000 for information “leading to the location of Nancy Guthrie and/or the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in her disappearance.” (Now that he’s done downing beers with the U.S. men’s hockey team at the Olympics, perhaps FBI director Kash Patel will have more free time to follow any leads in this investigation?)
In the weeks since Nancy’s disappearance, some people have expressed frustration online that all missing-persons cases do not receive the same level of concern and coverage in the media. Savannah acknowledged in her video that her family is not alone in this “uncertainty,” explaining that for that reason, they are also donating $500,000 to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. “We are hoping that the attention that has been given to our mom and our family will extend to all the families like ours,” she said, “who are in need and need prayers and need support.”
Air Miles program members can continue to use their collector cards, and their miles will automatically convert to “Blue Points” at an equivalent value upon this summer’s launch, with no action required. BMO Air Miles credit and debit card holders can also continue using their cards uninterrupted and will receive more program details in the coming months.
BMO revamps Blue Rewards with simpler, personalized perks
The bank said Blue Rewards will feature a simplified booking experience for flights, hotels, and car rentals powered by Expedia Group. It will also build on recent changes, including the ability to earn points on grocery and food deliveries when in-store receipts are scanned using the Blue Rewards app, as well as bonus points at most grocery retailers and wholesale clubs across Canada.
“Blue Rewards completely reimagines the loyalty experience with the client at the centre,” said Mathew Mehrotra, group head of Canadian personal and business banking at BMO, in a news release. “With a digitally enabled platform, we’re making one of Canada’s most celebrated loyalty programs even better by delivering simpler, flexible, more personalized rewards for collectors and helping them make real financial progress every day.”
Featured travel credit cards
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Scotiabank Gold American Express Card
Earn up to 6 Scene+ points per $1 spent and save on foreign transaction fees.
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Interest Rates:
20.99% purchase, 22.99% cash advance, 22.99% balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$500 value
Earn up to $1,050 in welcome offers, first year rewards and savings value, including no annual fee in your first year, and up to 50,000 bonus Scene+ points.
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American Express Cobalt Card
Earn up to 5 MR points per $1 spent and transfer them to partner loyalty programs.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 21.99% cash advance, N/A balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$150 value
Earn 1,250 points for each month you spend $750, up to a maximum of 15,000 points.
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MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard
Get 5 MBNA Rewards points per $1 across five categories, plus an annual bonus of 10% in points.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 22.99% cash advance, 22.99% balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$200 value
Earn 20,000 bonus points (approximately $165 in cash back value) after you make $2,000 or more in eligible purchases within the first 90 days.
Shell leaves Air Miles for Scene+ loyalty program
BMO acquired the Air Miles program in 2023 for US$160 million after its U.S. parent company LoyaltyOne Co. filed for bankruptcy. It is one of the oldest and largest loyalty programs in Canada, with around 10 million active users at the time of the acquisition. Collectors earn Air Miles through participating stores, services, and payment cards, which can be redeemed for “aspirational rewards” like merchandise, travel, events, and attractions.
Meanwhile, Shell Canada announced Monday its long-standing partnership with Air Miles is set to conclude, as the fuel company is instead joining up with the Scene+ loyalty program. Scene+ has more than 15 million members and is owned by Scotiabank, Empire Co. Ltd., and Cineplex Inc.
By bringing Shell on board, members will be able to earn points when they visit one of the fuel company’s 1,400 gas station and convenience store locations across Canada. The new offering is set to roll out in Alberta on March 3 and expand across Canada on May 26. That partnership will also see Scotiabank and Tangerine clients with eligible payment cards save at participating Shell locations. Shell customers can continue to earn and redeem Air Miles through March 2 in Alberta and May 25 in the rest of Canada.
“We listened to our members when they told us they wanted a fuel loyalty partner,” said Tracey Pearce, president of Scene+. “As a leader in the fuel industry, Shell is an ideal partner for our ecosystem.”
Blue Rewards adds new partners, keeps 400+ brands
Air Miles had lost a string of other big retailers in Canada during the years leading up to its sale to BMO.
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BMO said Blue Rewards collectors will continue to earn points at more than 400 brands. It said new Blue Rewards program partners include Porter Airlines and Accor Group hotel brands such as Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. Other new partners include Instacart and MTY Group restaurants, such as Thai Express, Baton Rouge, Pizza Delight, Allo Mon Coco, Sushi Shop, Mr. Sub, Manchu Wok, Mucho Burrito, and Jugo Juice.
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Barry Choi, who runs the Money We Have personal finance and travel website, said it is not yet clear whether the new loyalty program will be similar to Air Canada’s Aeroplan program, or closer to the previously existing BonBon program that was less consumer-facing and more focused on travel agents.
“I think if they go to the consumer-facing route, that’s where things can really start to get interesting,” he said in an interview. “Because I would compare it to other airlines, when you think about WestJet, Porter, and Air Canada, they all have their own credit cards already, where consumers can earn points on everyday purchases, which then can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and car rentals.”
Featured travel credit cards
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Scotiabank Gold American Express Card
Earn up to 6 Scene+ points per $1 spent and save on foreign transaction fees.
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Interest Rates:
20.99% purchase, 22.99% cash advance, 22.99% balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$500 value
Earn up to $1,050 in welcome offers, first year rewards and savings value, including no annual fee in your first year, and up to 50,000 bonus Scene+ points.
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American Express Cobalt Card
Earn up to 5 MR points per $1 spent and transfer them to partner loyalty programs.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 21.99% cash advance, N/A balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$150 value
Earn 1,250 points for each month you spend $750, up to a maximum of 15,000 points.
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MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard
Get 5 MBNA Rewards points per $1 across five categories, plus an annual bonus of 10% in points.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 22.99% cash advance, 22.99% balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$200 value
Earn 20,000 bonus points (approximately $165 in cash back value) after you make $2,000 or more in eligible purchases within the first 90 days.
Choi said that having a loyalty program generally “makes sense” and can help the company make use of consumer data. “It’s kind of funny; you’d think that they would have something like this already. Every single brand I know has a loyalty program for this reason, yet they seem to be behind,” Choi said.
Consumers can expect more details in coming months
The program is a fundamental pillar of Transat’s business strategy, said Xavier Szwengler, the vice-president for marketing and distribution at Transat, in a news release on Monday. “It allows us to strengthen ties with our customers while accelerating sustainable value creation for Transat and its investors.”
More details on the program will be released in the coming months, he said.
Dan Iwachiw, vice-president and head of product at Visa Canada, said that the organization will introduce a “suite of cards designed to bring more travel opportunities, meaningful rewards, and exceptional payment experiences to Canadians.”
Air Transat reported its first full-year profit since 2018 in December. For its full fiscal year, Transat earned $241.9 million, thanks to a stellar third quarter, compared with a $114-million loss in fiscal 2024.
Air Transat flies mainly to destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean and Europe, and only two destinations in the U.S. As demand for flights to Florida, Las Vegas, and other stateside spots has plummeted, the airline sought out destinations farther afield.
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The cash back you earn accumulates in your account and can be redeemed as statement credit, direct deposit, or sometimes as gift cards, merchandise, or money towards a future purchase. The key is to pay off your balance in full every month, since carrying a balance can wipe out any rewards you earn due to interest. Let’s get into it.
Featured cashback credit cards
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Best instant approval cash back card
SimplyCash Card from American Express
Earn a minimum of 1.5% cash back on all purchases, and 3% on U.S. dollar purchases. Redeem rewards when you want.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 21.99% cash advance, N/A balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$100 value
Earn a bonus 5% cash back on all purchases (up to $2,000 in purchases). That’s on top of your everyday cash back earn rates. That’s up to $100 in bonus cash back.
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Silver: Best cash back card
CIBC Dividend Visa Infinite Card
Earn 4% cash back on gas and groceries, and save at the pump with exclusive fuel discounts.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 22.99% cash advance, 22.99% balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$250 value
Join and earn over $400 in value including a first year annual fee rebate.†
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Bronze: Best cash back card
SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express
Get a minimum of 2% cash back on all your purchases—one of the highest base rates in Canada.
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Interest Rates:
21.99% purchase, 21.99% cash advance, N/A balance transfer
Welcome offer:
$250 value
Earn a bonus 10% cash back on all purchases for your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases). Plus, earn a $50 statement credit when you make a purchase in month 13. This could add up to $250 in bonus value in your first 13 months.
What is a cashback credit card?
A cashback credit card is a type of rewards card that gives you a percentage of your spending back in the form of cash. Depending on the card, this could be a flat rate on all purchases, or tiered rates based on shopping categories (like 4% for grocery, 2% for transit, and so on).
Compared to points or travel rewards cards, cashback cards are the most flexible. With cash back, the value is fixed. You’ll always know exactly what you’re earning and how you can use it. Points cards, on the other hand, tie your rewards to a specific program (like PC Optimum or Scene+), which can be great if you’re loyal to those retailers but more restrictive overall. Travel rewards cards can take it one step further in terms of overall value, especially when redeemed strategically for flights or hotel stays, but it’s more complex to get the full value out of those points.
Let’s take a look at some of the clear differences between cash back credit cards and travel rewards/points cards:
The bottom line: Cashback credit cards are best for simplicity and flexibility, and they offer a guaranteed discount on your spending. Travel rewards cards or points cards suit cardholders that want to maximize value on travel related purchases and can be trickier to get the most value out of.
How cashback credit cards work (aka how to earn cash back)
Cashback credit cards all work on the same principle. You earn a percentage of your purchases back as cash. How you earn varies depending on the card, though.
Flat rate rewards
These cards keep things simple by offering the same cashback rate on every purchase. You don’t have to track categories or spending caps, just swipe and earn. The earn rates tend to be a bit lower as a result of the flat rate, however. The Home Trust Preferred Visa is an example of this type of card.
A 1.5% flat-rate card like the Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard gives you $1.50 back for every $100 spent (and 3% on USD purchases!), no matter what you buy.
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Boosted earn rates
Many cash back cards offer higher rewards in certain categories while giving a lower base rate on everything else. This makes them especially valuable if your biggest expenses align with the boosted categories.
The Scotiabank Momentum offers a whopping 4% back on groceries and recurring payments, 2% on gas and transit, and 1% on all other purchases. It typically offers a generous welcome bonus, too.
Pro Tip: Look for cards that match your biggest expenses. A 4% grocery card is only worth it if groceries are a large share of your monthly budget.
Custom or rotating boosted rewards
Some cards let you choose your own bonus categories, while others rotate them automatically. This gives you a bit more flexibility, but also requires more attention to detail.
With a card like the Tangerine Money-Back Card, you pick 2–3 categories to earn extra cash back in—and you can change them every 90 days. Cards like the CIBC Adapta Mastercard automatically boost whichever categories you spend the most on each month.
Pro Tip: Always pay your balance in full. Carrying even a small balance at 20% interest can wipe out months of rewards quickly.
How to redeem your cash back
Earning rewards is only half the story, redeeming them is where you see the value. Most cashback credit cards give you a few options:
Statement credits: The most common method. You apply your cash back directly to your credit card balance, lowering what you owe.
Direct deposit or cheque: Some issuers allow you to transfer your rewards straight to your bank account or request a mailed cheque.
Automatic redemption: With certain cards, your cash back is automatically applied once you reach a set threshold.
Gift cards or merchandise: A few programs allow redemption for retailer gift cards or purchases through the issuer’s online rewards story, or even cash off a purchase.
Starting November 18, Fortnite Crew is part of your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
Valued at $11.99 a month, Fortnite Crew offers monthly rewards and access to Passes across Fortnite – and even Rocket League’s Rocket Pass Premium.
Fortnite also launches for Xbox on PC and becomes an Xbox Play Anywhere title on November 18.
It’s time to drop in, in style. From November 18, Fortnite Crew becomes part of your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, bringing monthly benefits across Fortnite (and even in Rocket League, too).
Not only that but, on the same day, Fortnite will become available through Xbox on PC for the first time, offering even more ways to play. Fortnite is joining Xbox Play Anywhere, meaning your progress and purchases will seamlessly follow you across Xbox consoles, PC, and supported gaming handhelds.
What’s Included in Fortnite Crew?
Fortnite Crew members get access to monthly rewards across Fortnite, and beyond. That comprises:
Fortnite Crew Pack – A Fortnite Crew-exclusive bundle that includes a new Outfit, plus at least one matching accessory like a Pickaxe, Glider, Wrap, or Emote. The November Crew Pack includes the racer Maxx Speed Outfit!
Battle Pass – Access to claim premium rewards from the Battle Pass as you level up. Including Outfits, Back Blings, and more!
OG Pass – Access to claim premium rewards from theOG Pass as you level up. Including items that are a fusion of new and classic!
LEGO Pass – Access to claim premium rewards from the LEGO Pass as you level up. Including items to use in LEGO Fortnite!
Music Pass – Access to claim premium rewards from the Music Pass as you level up. Including Instruments, Jam Tracks, and more items to use in Fortnite Festival!
1,000 V-Bucks – Each month, you’ll be rewarded 1,000 V-Bucks to put towards Outfits, Emotes, and more in the Fortnite Shop.
Rocket Pass Premium – Your Fortnite Crew membership even offers a benefit outside of Fortnite! You’ll also get access to Rocket Pass Premium in Rocket League.
Rocket Pass Premium is a Bonus Benefit. Bonus Benefits are only guaranteed for the then-current edition of Fortnite Crew. They may be changed from month to month or discontinued.
How Do I Access Fortnite Crew with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?
As an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriber, you’ll gain access to Fortnite Crew and begin accruing benefits by logging into Fortnite and Rocket League on Xbox console, Xbox on PC, or a supported gaming handheld.
If you are an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriber, here are the full details on the Fortnite Crew benefit being added to your subscription.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is for players who want the best of everything – alongside Fortnite Crew, subscribers get access to over 400 games playable on Xbox consoles, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud on supported devices. 75 new day one releases are added per year, including all Xbox-published games. You also get access to EA Play, Ubisoft+ Classics, enhanced Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming quality, Rewards with Xbox, and more.
Our goal with Game Pass has been clear: deliver unmatched value, benefits, and a deep library of games for our players. Since launching in 2017, we’ve steadily grown our subscriber and creator satisfaction – and today, creator participation and player engagement in Game Pass are at an all-time high. But we have the opportunity for Game Pass to help more players find the creators and games they love.
We know not everyone wants the same thing in their Xbox experience, so we’re evolving Game Pass to offer more flexibility, choice, and value to all players, whether you love day one releases, discovering hidden gems, or playing across multiple devices and screens and across Xbox consoles, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud.
Starting today, we’re introducing three upgraded Game Pass plans based on how players play: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. Each includes expanded game libraries, including PC titles, unlimited cloud gaming, in-game benefits (including Riot Games titles), and a revamped Rewards with Xbox experience. Today’s Game Pass Core subscribers will automatically move to Essential, Standard subscribers will transition to Premium, and Ultimate subscribers will remain in the Ultimate plan.
It’s all a part of our commitment to meet players where they are, so you can choose what works best for you, no matter how or where you love to play.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Just Got Its Biggest Upgrade Yet
Ultimate has been upgraded for players who want the best of everything. We’re rolling out our most expansive upgrade yet, including more day one games than ever before, Fortnite Crew & Ubisoft+ Classics for the first time ever, enhanced Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming quality up to 1440p, Rewards with Xbox, and more. Now players can have it all.
Ultimate subscribers now get access to over 75 day one releases a year. That includes some of the most anticipated upcoming games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, High on Life 2, Keeper, Ninja Gaiden 4, and The Outer Worlds 2. These join a growing library of more than 400 games playable on Xbox consoles, Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud on supported devices, with more than 45 new games added today. Think of hits like Blue Prince, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and Hollow Knight: Silksong, plus exclusive benefits like access to EA Play.
We’re also welcoming major additions to the Ultimate experience. Starting November 18, Fortnite Crew – an $11.99/month value – will be included in Ultimate, with access to the Fortnite Battle Pass, 1,000 V-Bucks each month, and more. This is just the beginning of Xbox and Epic’s work together toward an open gaming ecosystem where friends can play and create together, anywhere, across devices. And today, Ubisoft+ Classics (valued at $7.99/month per platform) joins Ultimate, offering access to a curated selection of Ubisoft games playable on console, PC, and cloud, like Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, and more.
Cloud gaming is also getting a major boost. Ultimate subscribers exclusively enjoy our best quality streaming and shortest wait times, so it’s easier than ever to jump into your favorite games. Xbox Cloud Gaming has also officially exited “Beta,” as part of our commitment to make gameplay smoother and more responsive. And we’ll keep expanding the Stream your own game collection for all subscribers. Keep an eye on Xbox.com/Play for the latest list of cloud playable games.
Ultimate subscribers can now earn up to $100 per year (100k points globally) in the Store just by playing games. With our upgraded Rewards program, players can get up to 30% value on select Game Pass games, with 4x points on purchases of games and add-ons, 10% back in points on select Game Pass library titles and add-ons, and up to 20% off select Game Pass games.
Xbox Game Pass Premium – More Games, More Flexibility
Premium has been upgraded to offer even more flexibility and value for those who want to play on their own terms at exceptional value. Premium provides access to a broader library of great games and extends the Xbox gaming experience across console, PC, and cloud.
We’re now giving Premium subscribers more games than ever before, from gaming’s biggest hits to hidden gems, now with access to 200+ games on Xbox console, PC, and supported devices, all still at $14.99. This library, with more than 40 new games available today, is also now playable on PC, including timeless hits like Minecraft, Forza Horizon 5, and Grand Theft Auto V. Plus, Premium subscribers get newly added fan-favorites like Diablo IV and Hogwarts Legacy starting today, and new Xbox-published games within a year of their launch (excludes Call of Duty titles).
Cloud gaming is also expanding in Premium. Subscribers now enjoy unlimited cloud gaming, including select games you own, and newly added in-game benefits in some of the biggest games like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege X, instantly unlocking cosmetics, characters, and more to enhance your gameplay.
Premium also brings new value through Rewards with Xbox. Premium subscribers can also get up to $50 per year (50k points globally) in the Store just by playing games, earning 2x points on purchases of games and add-ons, plus 5% back in points on select Game Pass library titles and add-ons.
Xbox Game Pass Essential: A Great Way to Get Started
Essential is for players who want the essence of everything Xbox. With access to games across console, PC, and cloud, Essential makes it easy to jump in and start playing, whether you’re diving into solo adventures or teaming up with friends.
Our revamped Essential plan now includes unlimited cloud gaming, online multiplayer, in-game benefits, and Rewards with Xbox, plus a curated catalog of 50+ games playable on both console and PC.
The Essential library is now fully playable on PC, featuring standout titles like Hades, Cities: Skylines – Remastered, Stardew Valley, and Warhammer 40,000: Darktide. You also get unlimited cloud gaming, allowing you to play games, including select games you own, on the devices you choose — giving you more freedom to play your way.
Subscribers also get access to in-game benefits in some of the biggest games like League of Legends, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Overwatch 2.
And with our Rewards with Xbox program, Essential members can earn up to $25 per year (25k points globally) in the Store just by playing. You’ll also get points on purchases of games and add-ons.
Getting Started with the New Xbox Game Pass Plans
As we continue to evolve Xbox Game Pass, we’re focused on delivering more value, more benefits, and more great games across every plan. Whether you play on console, PC, cloud – or all three – there’s a Game Pass option designed to fit your playstyle.
With the latest upgrades, Ultimate is now priced at $29.99/month, reflecting the expanded catalog, new partner benefits, and upgraded cloud gaming experience. Standard subscribers will be upgraded to Premium remaining at $14.99/month, offering exceptional value for players who want flexibility and access to new Xbox-published titles within a year of launch. Core subscribers will be upgraded to Essential remaining at $9.99/month, providing a curated library, online multiplayer, and cloud gaming for those who want to jump in and start playing.
We regularly evaluate exchange rates and market conditions, so pricing may vary by region. For the most up-to-date information on plan features and pricing in your area, visit the plan picker on Xbox.com.
We continue to add more games to Xbox Game Pass. Check out the latest games available starting today below, along with in-game benefits available across each plan. As a reminder, game titles, features, and availability vary over time, by region, Game Pass plan, and platform. Learn more about supported regions here.
Ultimate – Available Today
Hogwarts Legacy (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed II (PC)
Assassin’s Creed III Remastered (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag: Freedom Cry (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: India (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: Russia (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Liberation HD (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Revelations (PC)
Assassin’s Creed Rogue Remastered (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Assassin’s Creed The Ezio Collection (Cloud and Console)
Assassin’s Creed Unity (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Child of Light (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Far Cry 3 (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Far Cry Primal (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Hungry Shark World (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Monopoly Madness (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Monopoly 2024 (Cloud, PC, and Console)
OddBallers (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Prince of Persia The Lost Crown (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Rabbids Invasion: The Interactive TV Show (Cloud and Console)
Rabbids: Party of Legends (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Rayman Legends (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Risk Urban Assault (Cloud and Console)
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: The Game (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Skull and Bones (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
South Park: The Stick of Truth (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Starlink: Battle for Atlas (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Steep (Cloud, PC, and Console)
The Crew 2 (Cloud, PC, and Console)
The Settlers: New Allies (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Extraction (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Tom Clancy’s The Division (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Trackmania Turbo (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Transference (Cloud and Console)
Trials Fusion (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Trials of the Blood Dragon (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Trials Rising (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Uno (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Valiant Hearts: The Great War (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Watch_Dogs (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Wheel of Fortune (Cloud and Console)
Zombi (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Premium – Available Today (also in Ultimate)
9 Kings (Game Preview) (PC)
Abiotic Factor (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Against the Storm (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Age of Empires: Definitive Edition (PC)
Age of Empires III: Definitive Edition (PC)
Age of Mythology: Retold (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Ara: History Untold (PC)
Arx Fatalis (PC)
Back to the Dawn (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Battletech (PC)
Blacksmith Master (Game Preview) (PC)
Cataclismo (PC)
Cities: Skylines II (PC)
Crime Scene Cleaner (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Diablo (PC)
Diablo IV (PC and Console)
An Elder Scrolls Legends: Battlespire (PC)
The Elder Scrolls Adventures: Redguard (PC)
Fallout (PC)
Fallout 2 (PC)
Fallout: Tactics (PC)
Football Manager 2024 (PC)
Frostpunk 2 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Halo: Spartan Strike (PC)
Hogwarts Legacy (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Manor Lords (Game Preview) (PC)
Minami Lane (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Minecraft: Java Edition (PC)
Mullet Madjack (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
My Friendly Neighborhood (Cloud, PC, and Console)
One Lonely Outpost (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Quake 4 (PC)
Quake III Arena (PC)
Return to Castle Wolfenstein (PC)
Rise of Nations: Extended Edition (PC)
Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Sworn (Cloud, PC, and Xbox Series X|S)
Terra Invicta (Game Preview) (PC)
Volcano Princess (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Warcraft I: Remastered (PC)
Warcraft II: Remastered (PC)
Warcraft III: Reforged (PC)
Wolfenstein 3D (PC)
Essential – Available Today (also in Ultimate and Premium)
Cities: Skylines Remastered (Cloud and Xbox Series X|S)
Disney Dreamlight Valley (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Hades (Cloud, PC, and Console)
Warhammer 40,000 Darktide (Cloud, PC, and Console)
More Rewards with Game Pass
Editor’s Note (October 1): We’ve clarified the pricing information for Ubisoft titles.
When you hold money in a savings account, interest is money you receive for lending those funds to the financial institution. The interest is calculated daily and paid out monthly. The interest rate, usually shown as a percentage, is how much interest you get per year. A higher interest rate means your money grows faster.
Here’s an example. If you have $10,000 in a savings account with a 3.1% annual interest rate, over the course of one year, you’ll earn $314 in interest. That’s a pretty sweet return, and with no effort on your end. The longer the money is in your account, the more interest it earns. That’s why it’s so powerful to start saving early.
How banks set interest rates
Financial institutions such as banks and fintechs set account interest rates using the Bank of Canada’s policy interest rate as a guide. That’s why their rates can change over time: when the central bank raises or lowers its policy rate, financial institutions adjust their rates shortly after.
You’ll notice, though, that account providers offer different interest rates, some more competitive than others. Also, many banks have rules and restrictions on who can qualify for their best interest rate. Some advertise an attractive “up to X%” interest rate on savings accounts, but the fine print often includes conditions, such as a minimum required balance to get the best rate. Plus, some accounts charge monthly fees, which could eat into the interest you earn.
That’s why it’s important to shop around and compare different accounts, including their fees and features.
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PC Money Account
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Monthly fee: $0
Transactions: Free, unlimited transactions
Regular interest rate on balance: 3.10%
Welcome offer: None at this time.
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Finding the best rate
Have you ever seen a high interest rate advertised “for a limited time”? These teaser rates are exciting, but they only last for a few months, and then the interest drops sharply. Plus, you may have to jump through a few hoops—such as moving bill payments and direct deposits—just to unlock a higher rate.
Customers are getting wise to these blink-and-you-miss-’em rates, though. According to the PC Financial survey, 70% of Canadians feel frustrated when promo rates disappear, and over half say they don’t trust banks to offer fair, transparent savings products.
That’s why it’s smart to read the fine print and look beyond the flashy rates and focus on the account’s everyday interest rate, along with reviewing the fees and conditions.
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Growing your money with compound interest
Opening an account with a great interest rate and no monthly fees is the first step. Smart savers know it’s possible to grow their money even more. That’s where compound interest comes in. Compound interest is when you start earning interest not just on your original deposit, but also on the interest you’ve earned. It’s like a snowball getting bigger and faster as it rolls. The longer you save, the more powerful compound growth becomes—especially if you regularly add to your savings. Here’s how a $10,000 account balance could grow if the account holder deposits an additional $100 per month and the interest is compounded monthly.
As you can see, combining compound interest with regular deposits accelerates savings growth—helping you reach your financial goals faster.
A better way to earn: The PC Money Account
So where can you find an account with no catches? The PC Money Account from PC Financial is an all-in-one account with features designed for saving.
The PC Money Account is where you can get that competitive 3.1% everyday interest rate on your savings balance. That’s the current regular rate, not a short-term promo rate.
The account is just straightforward savings without surprises: no monthly fee to eat away at your balance; no minimum balance required to get the highest rate; and no time commitment, so you get the best rate while still having access to your money whenever you need.
It’s also the only bank account in Canada that rewards your spending with PC Optimum points. On top of the 100,000 bonus PC Optimum points you’ll receive for signing up, you’ll rack up points when you make everyday purchases with your PC Money Account, no matter where you shop. That means your oat-milk latte, new pickleball paddle, or grocery run can all turn into rewards. You can redeem your PC Optimum points towards groceries and essentials at Loblaw banner stores like Real Canadian Superstore, No Frills, and Shoppers Drug Mart.
Start saving money and earning points today
Whether you’re saving for a beach vacation, a home renovation or a special event like a wedding, the PC Money Account can help you reach your goal faster. Just transfer funds from your spending balance to your savings feature, and your money starts growing—earning interest with no strings attached from day one. It’s a flexible way to earn $700-plus per year in value, once you add up the interest and rewards. Thanks to these and other benefits, the PC Money Account is currently MoneySense’s pick for best rewards bank account.
Get more details about the PC Money Account. (Conditions apply; value shown is for illustrative purposes. Conditions apply to all benefits.)
21.99% on purchases, 22.97% on cash advances (21.97% for residents of Quebec), 22.97% on balance transfers
Income required
Personal income of $80,000 or household income of $150,000
Credit score
560 or higher
Point value
10 PC points = $0.01 at Loblaws grocery network and Shoppers Drug Mart.
Benefits of the PC Financial World Elite Mastercard
Earn more PC Optimum points than with a basic membership
All PC Optimum members earn points on select purchases. And those points can be redeemed for groceries, drugstore items, home essentials, clothing and gas. But with the PC FInancial World Elite Mastercard, you’ll rack points up much faster: You get 30 points per $1 spent at affiliated Loblaw banner grocery stores. Plus, you earn 45 points per $1 at Shoppers Drug Mart and 30 points per litre at Esso and Mobil stations. Beyond that, it’s 10 points per $1 spent on everything else.
Comes with good insurance benefits
The PC Financial World Elite Mastercard is a unicorn in the credit card world. Although it has no annual fee, cardholders get the added benefit of insurance coverage. As part of the package, you’ll get car rental collision/loss damage waiver insurance and up to $1 million in travel emergency medical insurance (for up to 10 days from departure). Those are two valuable features that could save serious coin on your next trip if you’re involved in an accident. It’s hard to find a $0 annual fee credit card with these kinds of extras.
How to earn PC Optimum points
Earning is easy: simply charge purchases to your PC Financial World Elite Mastercard. You’ll earn the most when you shop at PC-affiliated stores, and fuel up with its gas station partners.
With the PC Financial World Elite Mastercard, you’ll earn 30 Points per $1 spent at affiliated Loblaw banner grocery stores (such as Loblaws, Fortinos, No Frills and Real Canadian Superstore), making this one of the best no-fee credit cards. The earn rate is a whopping 45 points per $1 spent at Shoppers Drug Mart (as well as Pharmaprix in Quebec) and at least 30 points per litre of gasoline or diesel fuel purchased at Esso and select Mobil stations in Canada. You’ll get 10 points per $1 spent on everything else.
How to redeem PC Optimum points
One of the best features of PC Optimum is that redemption is a cinch. As soon as you accumulate 10,000 PC Optimum points, you can redeem them for $10 worth of free groceries or merchandise at any participating stores; or you can save them for fatter savings down the line. Points are calculated based on the purchase price of eligible products, less any applicable discounts and taxes shown on the receipt.
You can redeem PC Optimum points at about 2,500 participating retail locations, including:
grocery stores such as Loblaws, Fortinos, No Frills and Real Canadian Superstore
retail stores such as Zehrs and Joe Fresh
drugstores such as Shoppers Drug Mart and Pharmaprix
Just tell the cashier that you would like to “spend” your points when you scan your PC Optimum card at the checkout counter. Or you can redeem points off your bill while shopping online at the Beauty Boutique, Joe Fresh and PC Express websites.
You can see the list of participating retailers here. While the PC Optimum rewards program is very flexible, there are a few limitations you should be aware of. PC Optimum points cannot be earned or redeemed for certain items, including tobacco, alcohol and gift cards.
So, is the new CIBC Costco Mastercard the best one to use in store and online? Read on to learn the details of the CIBC Costco Mastercard and of seven attractive alternatives.
CIBC Costco Mastercard review
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CIBC Costco Mastercard
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Annual fee: $0
Welcome offer:This card does not have a welcome bonus at this time.
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Card details
Interest rates
20.75% on purchases and 22.49% on cash advances
Income required
$15,000 per year
Credit score
560 or higher
The pros
The CIBC Costco Mastercard is a no-fee cash back card (just like its predecessor, the Capital One Costco Mastercard). It offers 3% cash back at restaurants and Costco gas stations, 2% cash back at other gas stations—which is handy when you’re on the go—and 2% back when you shop at Costco.ca. For all your other purchase categories, you’ll earn 1% cash back (including at Costco).
This card also comes with mobile device insurance, with up to $1,000 of repair or replacement coverage when you charge or finance the price of a mobile device on your card. With certain eligible purchases, you can also get security insurance and extended warranty insurance. If you meet certain requirements, like having a person income of over $50,000 per year, you may qualify for the CIBC Costco World Mastercard, which is essentially the same card, but includes World Mastercard benefits like car rental insurance, travel perks and more.
The cons
There are a few drawbacks to the CIBC Costco Mastercard. While there is technically no annual fee, to truly reap the benefits of this card, it’s worth noting that you (obviously) have to have a Costco membership, which is $60 or more per year. Another point: there’s no limit on how much you can earn throughout the year. But, the cash back earn rate you receive does come with a cap. When you reach your annual spend in a certain category, you’ll still earn cash back—it will just be at the 1% rate for the remainder of the calendar year in that category. For gas, you will receive the 3% cash back rate (and 2% cash back rate at other gas stations) only on the first $5,000. After that, you’ll earn the 1% cash back rate. For Costco.ca purchases, the cap is $8,000 before you return to the 1% base rate.
The cash back redemption process might be considered a downside, too. While some cards pay out cash back earnings monthly, straight onto your statement or into your savings account, the CIBC Costco Mastercard gives them to you the form of gift certificates, issued in January, that you can redeem for anything in the Costco warehouse.
While Costco’s official credit card benefits Costco members, there might be other Mastercard products, all of which can be used at Costco, that will better meet your needs. This no-annual-fee card doesn’t match the perks of some of the cards we’ll discuss below.
The best Costco compatible credit cards in Canada
Best no-fee credit card for cash back
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Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard
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Annual fee: $0
Welcome offer: This card does not have a welcome bonus at this time.
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Card details
Interest rates
20.99% on purchases, 22.99% on cash advances, 22.99% on balance transfers
With the right loyalty points, you can stay in Orlando for free (resort and parking charges still apply). I always look at Marriott properties first, since I have a Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card. The card has an annual fee of $120, but it gives me an annual free night’s stay at Marriott properties, worth up to 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. (One Marriott Bonvoy point is worth $0.0117 on average when redeemed hotel stays.) Additionally, I can transfer any of my American Express MR Points, which I collect with the American Express Cobalt Card, to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio. This ability to transfer makes it incredibly easy to earn and redeem Marriott Bonvoy points.
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Marriott Bonvoy American Express
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Annual fee: $120
Welcome offer:earn 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points
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Card details
Interest rates
21.99% on purchases, 21.99% on cash advances
Income required
None specified
Credit score
725 or higher
Point value
1 Marriott Bonvoy point = $0.0117 on average when redeemed for eligible flights or hotel stays..
One of my favourite places to stay in Orlando is the Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. It’s part of the Disney Swan and Dolphin complex, so regardless of which property you stay at (the Dolphin Resort, Swan Resort or Swan Reserve), you get access to all the amenities, including multiple pools, kids’ activities, swan paddle boats and more. Best of all, these hotels are considered on-site Disney properties, so you get early access to all the Disney World Parks. That extra half-hour to an hour makes a considerable difference since you get to beat the crowds.
Admittedly, the Dolphin, Swan and Reserve hotels are some of the more expensive Marriott properties, but I’ve also stayed at Residence Inn and Courtyard hotels (both part of the Marriott family) for as little as 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. As a bonus, when you book five consecutive nights at the same hotel using Marriott Bonvoy points, you get one night free.
Besides Marriott Bonvoy, I’ve also used HotelSavers via Aeroplan. With HotelSavers, you save up to 30% in points on bookings with select partner hotels. Plus, Aeroplan credit card holders get their fourth night free when booking three nights on points.
More ways to save in Orlando
If you can subsidize your flights and hotels with points, theme park tickets will be your biggest expense. Fortunately, there are occasional deals.
Universal Orlando Resort has an offers page that lists all the current promotions. For example, at the time of writing, you can get two days free when you purchase a ticket valid for two parks over three days. Alternatively, you can save 20% on four-night stays at a Universal Orlando Hotel. The hotel offer can be lucrative, as Premier Universal Hotels give your entire party a free Universal Express Unlimited pass, allowing you to skip the regular lines at some of the most popular attractions. The passes are worth as much as USD$124.99 per person, per day. You also get early access to the parks.
Disney World has similar offers throughout the year for both park tickets and accommodations. It also typically has Canadian-exclusive deals about once or twice a year, and these can be a great way to save.
For non-theme-park savings, check out the offers page on Visit Orlando. Here you’ll find discounts on dining, shopping, attractions and accommodations.
As you might recall, BMO Financial Group bought Air Miles in March 2023, after the program’s owner, Loyalty Ventures Inc., filed for bankruptcy. At that time, BMO said the acquisition “would be a made-in-Canada opportunity to enable a reinvigoration for one of Canada’s largest loyalty programs.”
Air Miles collectors, that day has come. Let’s look at how the program has changed.
What’s new about Air Miles?
In addition to its emphasis on moments (collecting them, winning them, getting to them faster), the new Air Miles brand platform reflects several program enhancements rolled out since April:
More ways to earn
Collectors can take advantage of two ways to rack up more Miles:
Air Miles Receipts, introduced in 2023, gives members Miles for buying certain products and scanning the receipts with the Air Miles app within 14 days. Air Miles Receipts initially included grocery stores. It recently expanded to liquor stores, and more categories are coming in September.
Card-linked offers give collectors bonus Miles at partner retailers. To access offers, link a Canadian-issued Mastercard to your Air Miles Account. (BMO Air Miles Mastercards are automatically linked.) Two recent examples: 250 bonus Miles for spending $500 at LG Electronics, and 125 bonus Miles for spending $300 at Porter Airlines.
More ways to redeem
Collectors can redeem Air Miles for eVouchers at several more well-known retailers, including Amazon, Sporting Life, TJX brands (Winners, HomeSense, Marshalls) and more. Redeeming 95 Cash Miles gets you $10 in value (the same as before the relaunch).
Gas discounts at Shell
If you have a BMO Air Miles–linked credit card or debit card, you’ll save $0.07 per litre on Shell V-Power premium fuel and $0.02 per litre on other Shell fuel—a nice perk given the high cost of gas.
Other credit card benefits
BMO Air Miles credit cardholders can now earn double the Miles on purchases at wholesale clubs and liquor retailers in Canada, the same boosted earn rate they get at eligible grocery stores.
Conversions between Cash Miles and Dream Miles
Air Miles requires cardholders to allocate their reward Miles into two buckets: Cash Miles (redeemable for retailer eVouchers and in-store discounts) and Dream Miles (redeemable for merchandise and travel rewards). The ratio is up to you, but you couldn’t convert one to the other—until now. Onyx and Gold collectors (the upper two of Air Miles’ three tiers) now have more flexibility: Onyx collectors get unlimited transfers, and Gold collectors can transfer up to 1,000 Miles each year. (Sorry, Blue collectors, no transfers for you.)
1. Unlock the earning potential of your everyday spending
Everyone has expenses. The trick is to figure out how to earn rewards on the purchases you’re already making. Your best bet is to pick a card that offers boosted earn rates in the categories you spend the most in. For many Canadians, the top spending categories are groceries and gas, so paying with a card like the National Bank World Elite Mastercard can reap a lot of points.
Let’s say your family spends around $1,000 per month on groceries and about $250 on gas. If you paid for these purchases with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard, you could earn up to 5,500 points per month—that’s 66,000 points per year just in those two categories. With 66,000 points, you could redeem for tech merchandise (like a smartwatch or tablet) or pay down your National Bank of Canada mortgage, for example.
Here’s how it works: The amount of points earned on grocery and restaurant purchases depends on the total gross monthly amount charged to the credit card account, regardless of the purchase category. You will earn five points for every dollar in eligible grocery and restaurant purchases until a total of $2,500 in gross monthly purchases is charged to the account. After that, you’ll earn two points per dollar in eligible grocery and restaurant purchases. (The total gross monthly amount is calculated based on your monthly billing period.)
Apply for the National Bank World Elite Mastercard between May 13 and August 15, 2024, and you could earn up to 40,000 bonus rewards points in the first year. Minimum purchase and insurance product required. See applicable terms and conditions.
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National Bank World Elite Mastercard
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Annual fee: $150
Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases, 22.49% balance transfers and cash advances
Earn rate: Up to 5 points per $1 on grocery and restaurant purchases; 2 points per $1 on gas, EV charges, recurring bill payments and travel booked through À La Carte Rewards; and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Welcome offer: In the first year, you can earn up to 40,000 rewards points. Must apply by August 15, 2024. Minimum purchase and insurance product required. Learn more about applicable terms and conditions.
Annual income requirement: Personal income of $80,000 or household income of $150,000
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2. Make the most of your optional spending
There’s more to bills than groceries and gas, of course, so choose a card that rewards more of your other purchases. When you use your National Bank World Elite Mastercard to pay your restaurant bill, you could earn up to five points per dollar. Plus, with a base rate of one point per dollar spent on your card in other categories, your rewards will rack up quickly.
3. Subscribe to rewards points
If you’re like most Canadians, you’ve got a bunch of bills that show up each and every month, including services like your phone plan and subscriptions to streaming services. Get something back for your monthly bills by setting up automatic payments with your National Bank World Elite Mastercard. You’ll get two points per dollar for recurring payments, and you’ll never have to worry about missing a payment.
4. Get the family involved
When you add a cardholder to your account, all their rewards points add up along with yours in the same account, so you reach your rewards goals faster. This can be a terrific option for spouses, for example. Each person will have their own card with their own PIN, but all transactions are charged to the same account. With the National Bank World Elite Mastercard, the annual fee for each additional card is only $50 per year.
5. Earn more on travel
Using a credit card is a convenient and secure way to pay for travel—and it can also let you earn rewards points. With the National Bank World Elite Mastercard, you’ll get two points per dollar spent on any travel you book through the À la carte Travel portal. Plus, every year you’ll get a travel credit of up to $150 to reimburse eligible expenses charged to your card, including flight upgrades, seat selection, airport parking, extra checked bags and access to airport lounges. And, with the included travel insurance on this card, you’ll be all set for your next journey. (Insurance coverage is limited to specific amounts. Please read the full insurance details.)
A credit score is a three-digit number, usually between 300 and 900, that banks and other lenders use to determine how likely you are to pay back your loans. The higher the number, the more credit-worthy you are to the banks.
Your score is based on information in your Canadian credit history, such as whether you pay for your phone bill and utilities on time and in full each month. The problem is, for newcomers and others without a Canadian credit history, lenders don’t have any information. This makes it hard for people to get credit.
Your first credit card in Canada
If you’re young, or a newcomer, or you haven’t used credit in Canada before, you’ll need to start simply. Credit cards themselves are forms of credit, so the first step is to get an entry-level credit card and prove your credit-worthiness by paying your bills on time. Then you can work your way up.
Entry-level credit cards usually have fewer perks than more premium cards, but they also typically have lower income requirements and a lower annual fee—in some cases, $0.
National Bank’s mycredit Mastercard is a great example. There’s no annual minimum income requirement to apply for this card and no annual fee, making it very accessible. And, while the mycredit Mastercard doesn’t come with a full suite of included benefits, it does allow you to earn 1% cash back on recurring bill payments and restaurant spends, and 0.5% back on everything else.
You already know you should use your credit card responsibly, but what, exactly, does that mean?
Stick to your budget Most entry-level credit cards come with modest credit limits. Still, it’s important you don’t spend more than you can pay off, no matter your limit. This is sometimes tricky for new credit cardholders, but budgeting is an essential part of your financial health.
Pay your card balance in full Best practice is to pay off your credit card, in full and on time, every month. Interest rates on credit cards are very high, so debt can balloon quickly if you carry a balance. Stick to your budget and don’t overspend.
Pay the minimum amount If, for any reason, you can’t pay a bill in full, make sure you pay at least the minimum amount, which appears on your bill. Credit card companies report your payment history to the credit bureaus, and even one missed payment will lower your score. You can avoid that by making the minimum payment (or more) by the due date.
Pay your bill on time Timeliness is as important as making minimum payments. It shows the credit bureaus that you can meet your financial obligations. If you need help remembering your due date, consider setting up an automatic payment through your online banking.
When it comes to credit cards, you should work towards paying in full, on time, every month. Every payment helps you build your credit score buy showing you are responsible with credit, and over time, you can become eligible for upgraded financial products, with more features and perks.
This hard-working credit card offers generous earn rates of up to five points per dollar spent on restaurants and groceries, which is a significant spending category for most Canadians. The amount of points earned on these purchases depends on the total gross monthly amount charged to the credit card, regardless of the purchase category. You will earn five points for every dollar in eligible grocery and restaurant purchases until a total of $2,500 in gross monthly purchases is charged to the account. After that, you will earn two points per dollar in eligible grocery and restaurant purchases. (The total gross monthly amount is calculated based on your monthly billing period.)
Another big expense—gas or EV charging—earns two points per dollar spent, as do recurring bill payments, along with any travel booked through National Bank’s À la carte Travel service. All other purchases earn a base rate of one point per dollar, so nothing goes unrewarded.
Apply for the National Bank World Elite Mastercard between May 13 and August 15, 2024, and you could earn up to 40,000 bonus rewards points in the first year. Minimum purchase and insurance product required. Learn more about applicable terms and conditions.
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National Bank World Elite Mastercard
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Annual fee: $150
Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases, 22.49% balance transfers and cash advances
Earn rate: Up to 5 points per $1 on grocery and restaurant purchases; 2 points per $1 on gas, EV charges, recurring bill payments and travel booked through À La Carte Rewards; and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
Welcome offer: In the first year, you can earn up to 40,000 rewards points. Must apply by August 15, 2024. Minimum purchase and insurance product required. Learn more about applicable terms and conditions.
Annual income requirement: Personal income of $80,000 or household income of $150,000
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Redeeming your rewards points
Redemptions with the National Bank World Elite Mastercard are easy. You can use your points to shop for whichever rewards best suit you. Visit the online boutique and choose from merchandise, gift cards or travel, or invest your points in your National Bank of Canada TFSA and/or RRSP. You can also apply points to your credit card balance or National Bank of Canada mortgage. It’s quick, easy and all in one place.
When it comes to perks, the National Bank World Elite Mastercard has the bases covered. Travellers will love the included travel and car rental insurance, and unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montréal-Trudeau Airport for international flights. Plus, there’s an annual travel credit of up to $150 that you can apply to eligible expenses including seat selection, seat upgrades, airport parking, extra checked bags and airport lounge access.
Other benefits include mobile device insurance and extended manufacturer’s warranty, so you’ll be covered for longer on virtually anything you buy with the card. (See all terms and conditions.)
The right credit card offers convenience, security and benefits you can use. Consider the National Bank World Elite Mastercard as your everyday card.
This article is sponsored.
This is a paid post that is informative but also may feature a client’s product or service. These posts are written, edited and produced by MoneySense with assigned freelancers and approved by the client.
® Mastercard and World Elite are registered trademarks, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Authorized user: National Bank. ® National Bank and À la carte rewards are registered trademarks of National Bank of Canada.
What do I need to know about managing my finances as a contractor?
No matter what type of construction business you launch or buy, it’s important to have a bookkeeping system in place—between material expenses, insurance fees, client payments and more, you’ll have a lot of money going in and out each month. You’ll need a separate bank account and line of credit for your business, and it’s smart to have a credit card that’s solely for professional use.
Pro tip: Choose a credit card for contractors
Scotiabank has a small-business credit card that’s great for contractors: the Scotia® Home Hardware PRO Visa† Business Card, which can be used wherever Visa is accepted. Its variable interest rate is tied to Scotiabank’s prime rate, and credit limits of up to $500,000 are available (a limit high enough for larger, or multiple, renovations). The card’s interest rate and credit limit depend on whether the account is secured or unsecured, subject to approval and the security provided. The Scotiabank Prime Rate is the prime lending rate published from time to time by The Bank of Nova Scotia. (See the current Scotiabank Prime Rate.) The card has no annual fee, and it has an interest-free grace period of 21 days on new purchases.
And then there are the rewards. You’ll earn one Scene+TM point for every dollar spent on eligible business purchases made at Home Hardware, which has more than 1,000 locations across Canada, or online at homehardware.ca.
For every 10,000 Scene+ points you collect, you can redeem $100 at Home Hardware. If you’re regularly buying construction and renovation materials, you can accumulate points quickly—and get a lot of free stuff. Points can be redeemed for groceries, travel, gift cards and more. Plus, as your contractor business grows, you can add supplementary credit cards at no cost. These are great perks for entrepreneurs who want to minimize spending while getting their home renovation business off the ground.
The business credit card also includes insurance protection on most newly purchased items charged to the account. Most newly purchased items are covered for 90 days by Purchase Security, and these items may be eligible for replacement, repair or reimbursement if they are stolen, damaged or destroyed by fire.
Cardholders also have access to optional business loan protection insurance, Scotia Business Loan Protect, which can help cover business loan payments, or provide a lump sum of money, if you or another eligible key person can’t work for health reasons or passes away. Scotia Business Loan Protect is underwritten by The Canada Life Assurance Company (1-800-387-2671, www.canadalife.com) under a group policy issued to the Bank of Nova Scotia. All coverage is subject to the terms and conditions outlined in the Certificate of Insurance, which you will receive upon enrollment.
You can apply for the Scotia® Home Hardware PRO Visa† Business Card online. Plus, until May 31, 2024, you can earn up to 15,000 bonus Scene+ points in your first year (that’s worth up to $150 in points value) by making at least $1,500 in eligible purchases at participating Home Hardware, Home Building Centre, Home Hardware Building Centre, Home Furniture locations in Canada and online at homehardware.ca in the first three months after opening your account. Cardholders also have access to online tools and services designed just for business owners. See Scotiabank’s website for full card details.
Building a successful career as a home renovation contractor
If you have the skills and motivation needed to become a contractor in Canada, you have the potential to build a lasting, rewarding career in home improvement. Over time, you might find that the Scotia® Home Hardware PRO Visa† Business Card is just as important to your contractor business as any other tool in your belt. After all, every dollar matters to your small business—so make them count.
In the mid-2000s, Air Miles devalued its points, making it harder for customers to reach their rewards goals. Then, in 2016, the company announced it would add an expiration date to Miles. Though the decision was reversed after an outcry, the move damaged customer relations. Next, the company split Air Miles into Cash Miles (for in-store redemption and e-vouchers) and Dream Miles (for merchandise, travel, events and attractions), further confusing collectors.
By 2022, some of Air Miles’ biggest draws had left the program, including Staples, Rexall, the LCBO, Lowe’s and others. Metro stores are the latest mega-partners to sever ties with Air Miles.
Earning rewards for groceries
All of this might be bad news for Air Miles, but consumers can still find ways to earn rewards on their grocery shopping bills.
One way is to join the loyalty programs of your grocery chain. Like Metro with its new Moi Rewards program, Loblaws stores give out PC Optimum points, Save-on-Foods and others use More Rewards, and Thrifty Foods uses Scene+ points.
Unfortunately, Moi Rewards alone won’t get you the value you’re used to with Air Miles. If it takes 500 Moi Rewards points to redeem for $4, the value per point is $0.008. How does that stack up against Air Miles? While the value of an Air Mile will fluctuate depending on what you redeem it for, the average value is $0.121. Luckily, you can use a different strategy to make your food shopping pay dividends.
The best grocery credit cards in Canada
You can earn rewards on your groceries by purchasing them with a rewards credit card. For example, you could use a PC Mastercard to pay for food at Metro, and you’d still earn PC Optimum points—not as many as you’d get shopping at Loblaw banner stores, but you’d still get the base rate. Many other rewards cards are good for groceries, too. The best one for you will depend on where you shop and your shopping habits.
Here’s a quick look at some of our top picks.
What’s replacing Air Miles at Metro?
So, Air Miles is out and Moi Rewards is in. While it’s true that the advertised Moi Rewards earn rate is underwhelming, the details of the program remain to be seen. In the meantime, Metro shoppers can get their rewards by using a solid rewards credit card at the till.
“They will do all the comparisons for you, across all the different providers, and you can organize a list based on: I prioritize Air Miles, I prioritize cash back, I prioritize low interest rates,” Marques said.
“They’ll compare all the providers with best in class in those categories, and show you their current rates, their current signup offers, et cetera.”
As for younger consumers, Marques said low interest rates aren’t typically a priority, assuming you aren’t already managing a lot of credit card debt and you’re not transferring a balance.
Instead, travel rewards and cash back from your favourite retailers are likely the biggest returns on your spending, she said. Options with no annual fees are also valuable for someone just starting out, although there will be fewer rewards.
Can you negotiate with credit card issuers?
When getting a new card, there isn’t much room for negotiation, Terrell said—what you see is what you get. If you want different or better perks, the provider will just point you to another card that offers them.
Negotiations come into play if you already have debt, Marques said, or are transferring debt between cards to take advantage of the lowest rate.
Using signup offers—such as zero interest for the first 12 months—with a balance transfer means you can get a break from interest and pay down your balance faster, she said. Or if you want to keep your current card, you can simply call your provider and move your balance to a lower-interest option.
“There is an opportunity to negotiate their interest rates or even negotiate on your annual fees,” Marques said. “I think a lot of consumers don’t realize that if you just call and ask … in a lot of cases, they will.”
Fresh off an appearance at Coachella, the Diljit Dosanjh Canada tour starts in Vancouver on April 27, 2024 at BC Place—a night that’s expected to be the largest Punjabi show ever produced outside of India. The singer will also be the first ever Punjabi artist to perform at the venue.
With 8.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify alone, and 24 million followers across all his social media platforms, Simplii felt Dosanjh would be the perfect candidate to be its first-ever brand ambassador.
“We both share the same passion for inspiring and supporting new Canadians and helping people live life to the fullest,” said Kam Dhadwar, managing director at CIBC Capital Markets, in a statement. “Nearly a third of Canadian newcomers originate from India and with Diljit’s help, we hope to help them see themselves in the Simplii brand.”
What the Simplii Dosanjh partnership means for Simplii clients
As of yet, this partnership doesn’t seem to offer any special perks for Simplii Financial customers looking to grab tickets to the Dosanjh show in Vancouver. “At the moment, our partnership includes social content, ads, contesting, and advice for our clients,” Dhadwar says in his statement, “but we’ll share more on how the partnership evolves over time.”
What to know about Simplii and its entertainment perks
Simplii Financial is one of Canada’s biggest alt-banks, with over 2 million Canadian account holders. It operates as an online-only institution, although clients can go to ATMs at any CIBC location, thanks to an ongoing partnership. Pitching itself as a bank for newcomer Canadians and international students, Simplii allows account enrollment from over 90 countries, same-day no-transfer-fee transactions to more than 130 countries, and foreign currency savings accounts, including for Indian rupees. It also offers high-interest savings accounts, chequing accounts and other products.
While Simplii is a fairly no-frills banking option, its Simplii Cash Back Visa Card offers a decent 4% reward rate for select restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, although it has an annual cap of $5,000. It also grants 1.5% back on $15,000 worth of eligible gas and pre-authorized payments, and a no-cap, 0.5% back on everything else. This might not do much for a Dosanjh fan looking for exclusive access before the show, but it could help concertgoers save a bit of money on their big night out. MoneySense lists it as one of the best credit cards for newcomers to Canada.
Are entertainment rewards worth it?
Plenty of credit cards and financial institutions and banks in Canada offer entertainment rewards. These range from early access to select shows to cash back rewards on ticket purchases, flights, or other entertainment options like restaurants and bars. For someone spending as much as $2,361 on front-row tickets at Dosanjh’s Vancouver show, according to Ticketmaster, entertainment rewards can go a long way. But not all cards are created equal.
The Simplii Cash Back Visa Card doesn’t offer entertainment rewards for show tickets, although Simplii’s cardholder agreement says it may give special offers from time to time. These could, presumably, include access to tickets to special events. For example, RBC helped Avion Rewards members snag tickets for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.
A new Pokémon GoSpecial Research set has launched now that we’re in a new season. Named after the season, “Timeless Travels” will be available to anyone who opens the game and starts the research during the season, which ends March 1, 2024.
The research is meant to be completed over the span of the season, so you don’t need to rush. (You won’t need to rush in general, since it’ll be permanently available after unlocking.) That being said, there’s some pretty good rewards in here and the tasks just involve you pretty much playing the game as you would normally anyway.
You can check out the list of steps and rewards for the “Timeless Travels” Special Research below.
