Schedule I chartered bank
I opened an account with Canadian Western Bank expecting better based on their marketing. The account opening process took forever, they kept asking for the same documents, and once the account was open the service didn't improve. Fees higher than advertised and interest rates lower than competitors.
Pros: None that I can think of
Cons: Slow processes, misleading advertising, high fees
I've had both good and bad experiences with Canadian Western Bank. Day-to-day banking is fine and the app works. However, I had a terrible experience trying to dispute a charge - it took weeks and multiple calls to resolve. The resolution was fair in the end but the process was frustrating.
Pros: App works well for daily banking
Cons: Dispute resolution process is slow and painful
The banking products at Canadian Western Bank are okay, but their customer service is genuinely poor. I waited 45 minutes on hold to ask a simple question about my statement. When I finally got through, the agent couldn't help and transferred me to another department where I waited again. Very frustrating experience.
Pros: Online banking works adequately
Cons: Terrible hold times, unhelpful customer service
Canadian Western Bank does the basics well enough. My current account works fine, cards work abroad, and I haven't experienced any security issues. But they don't offer anything that really stands out from competitors. Interest rates are middling and the rewards program is underwhelming.
Pros: Reliable basics, international card works well
Cons: Nothing that stands out, low interest rates