In light of the major changes in financial regulation introduced by the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999, the significant security and operational concerns connected with the events of September 11, and the failure of Enron, the scope, structure, operations and functions of the US financial system are receiving a heightened level of attention. However, the United States is not unique in facing fundamental questions about markets and regulation. A number of other nations have instituted basic changes and overhauls in their financial system. This book provides a descriptive overview of the Canadian financial system. While the Canadian and American systems are generally similar in structure and function, there are significant differences in market and regulatory practices, and comparison may yield useful insights for oversight of the US financial system.