Understanding the Rural Tilt among Financial Cooperatives in Canada

Abstract

This mixed methods study examines whether the rural/urban distribution of credit union/caisse populaire branches differs significantly from the general urban/rural demographic pattern in Canada. It also explores whether their distribution is different from that of banks, looking at the cases of Québec and Atlantic Canada. The study finds a rural tilt among financial cooperatives in Canada, and seven key informants present their views on the results. Their responses are categorized in two main themes: why financial cooperatives are over-represented in rural and small town areas, and why they are under-represented in urban ones. A discussion follows, and directions for further study are provided.