Oaken Financial offers some of Canada's best GIC and savings rates through Home Bank. Here's the full picture for 2025.
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Try KOHO Free — Code 45ET55JSYAOaken Financial is the direct-to-consumer savings brand of Home Bank (formerly Home Trust Company), a federally regulated Schedule I bank that has operated in Canada since 1964. Oaken Financial launched in 2013 to offer Canadians competitive GIC and savings rates without the overhead of a traditional branch network.
Home Bank is a direct CDIC member, meaning Oaken Financial deposits are insured up to $100,000 per depositor category — the same protection as any of Canada's Big Five banks.
| Product | Minimum Deposit | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Savings Account | $1,000 | Competitive high-interest rate |
| Non-Redeemable GIC | $1,000 | Highest rates, locked until maturity |
| Redeemable GIC | $1,000 | Lower rate, can redeem early |
| RRSP GICs | $1,000 | Registered account eligible |
| TFSA GICs | $1,000 | Tax-free growth |
| RRIF GICs | $1,000 | Retirement income eligible |
Oaken Financial's non-redeemable GIC rates are among the best in Canada. One-year rates often exceed 4–5% depending on market conditions, and Oaken frequently appears at or near the top of GIC comparison tables. For Canadians with lump sums to invest safely for a fixed period, Oaken's GICs are genuinely competitive with any alternative on the market.
The $1,000 minimum deposit is accessible to most Canadians. GIC terms range from 30 days to 5 years.
The Oaken savings account also offers competitive rates compared to traditional banks, though rates fluctuate with the Bank of Canada policy rate. It requires a $1,000 minimum deposit to open, which is higher than competitors like EQ Bank ($0 minimum). However, Oaken's rates are frequently among the top three in Canada for instant-access savings.
| Feature | Oaken Financial | EQ Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Deposit | $1,000 | $0 |
| Monthly Fee | $0 | $0 |
| CDIC Insurance | Direct (Home Bank) | Direct (Equitable Bank) |
| GIC Products | Extensive | Yes |
| Debit Card | No | No (savings-focused) |
| Everyday Banking | No | Yes (e-Transfers, bill pay) |
Oaken Financial is best suited for Canadians looking to park a lump sum — particularly in GICs — and earn maximum returns safely. It's ideal for retirees, conservative investors, or anyone who has received an inheritance or a large sum they want to protect and grow at the best available rate.
Oaken Financial is not designed for everyday banking. You won't get a debit card, e-Transfer capabilities, or bill payment tools. Use it alongside a primary spending account. KOHO is an excellent complement — use KOHO for daily spending and cash back while your savings earn in an Oaken GIC. Use code 45ET55JSYA to get $20 when you sign up for KOHO.
Yes. Oaken Financial is operated by Home Bank, a Schedule I chartered bank and direct CDIC member since 1977. Your deposits are insured up to $100,000 per depositor category. Home Bank has over 60 years of operating history in Canada.
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