Canadian banks are generally stable and continue to hire. The World Economic Forum has rated Canada the world's soundest banking system and it remains a model for risk management and capital adequacy practices. The dust from the financial crisis appears to be settling, and firms are now awaiting government action that could positively affect their business. While institutions are taking a cautious approach to hiring, some banking and finance specialties are showing signs of growth:

• Compliance and risk-related positions: Demand for these roles, already increased in some areas, will expand further if new regulations are enacted. The anticipated call for increased financial transparency will require individuals with backgrounds in accounting and finance.
• Credit: Organizations need employees in all facets of credit, from those who are skilled in analyzing data and processing loans to those who can resolve problems with existing agreements with customers.
• Mortgage roles: Refinancing activity has increased due to low interest rates, creating demand for such professionals as loan officers, document specialists and underwriters.
• Fixed-income advisory and trading: Changes in the stock market have made fixed-income portfolios more attractive to some investors. This is creating a need for professionals specializing in managing and trading fixed-income products.

Salaries in banking and finance are relatively flat, with some exceptions, including the areas of risk and compliance. While some financial institutions have gained attention for giving lavish bonuses to employees, many organizations in the industry are refraining from offering bonuses in the current economic environment.