Canada’s 2025 federal budget is setting up a breakthrough year for the country’s fintech and payment industry. Below are the key takeaways that will have an impact on fintech, payments, and startups.

Open Banking Moving Forward

Firstly, with open banking finally moving forward, Canadians can expect secure access to their banking data and easier switching between service providers by 2027. The Bank of Canada will oversee this new framework, opening the door for more competition and smarter, customer-centric digital banking products.​

Learn more about how open banking will benefit Canadians.

Stablecoin Regulation 

Stablecoin regulation has also gotten attention in this year’s federal budget. New rules are being designed to make digital currency payments safer and spur innovation. For digital payment and embedded finance providers, this means new growth opportunities and clearer compliance pathways.​

The Real-Time Rail Is On Its Way

A major highlight is the renewed commitment to Real-Time Rail (RTR), Canada’s instant payments network, which remains on track for a 2026 launch. RTR will allow instant, 24/7 bank-to-bank payments for businesses and consumers, supporting payment processors, pay-by-bank solutions, and new digital commerce models. This positions Canada alongside global leaders in payment innovation, speeding up financial transactions for everyone.​

Learn more about how the Real-Time Rail will change Canada’s payment landscape.

Venture Capital and Startup Support

The budget also brings a $1 billion boost for venture capital fund managers, fresh support for early-stage startups, big tax advantages, and an increase in the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption. These moves promise to attract more fintech founders and scale-ups, while advancing innovation, job creation, and economic growth.​

Canada’s 2025 budget lays the groundwork for smarter financial services through open banking, RTR, and clarity on stablecoins. It’s a green light for the next wave of fintech startups to thrive.

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