This Financial Insights report examines the results of the 2006 Canadian Consumer Channel Preference Survey analyzing the financial services channel preferences of 2,000 Canadian consumers. This report explores the banking behaviour of Canadians, with a specific focus on their online payments behaviour and attitudes toward identity theft.

"It has long been the goal of Canadian banks to provide consumers with a convenient, cost-effective choice of channel through which to conduct their day-to-day banking," notes Patricia Howell, senior analyst, Canadian Financial Advisory Service. "All institutions would likely agree that the branch will continue to play a vital role in establishing and nurturing long-term relationships; however, the increasing importance of remote channels in driving sales will fundamentally change the client relationship model."