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Canada's bill c 2: new rules for large cash donations

Canada's Bill C-2 | Cash Transactions Over CAD 10,000 Flagged

By

Amina Al-Mansoori

Jun 9, 2025, 06:44 PM

Edited By

Jordan Smith

2 minutes to read

A business meeting with financial documents and a cash donation box on the table

A new law in Canada is raising alarms among businesses and charities. Bill C-2, recently introduced, bans cash transactions exceeding CAD 10,000. Critics argue that it unfairly affects ordinary Canadians and is reminiscent of similar policies in the EU.

What You Need to Know

The bill mandates that entities, including businesses and charities, must cease cash transactions above the newly established threshold. This isn’t just about reporting; it redefines the management of cash within these organizations. The legislation has been met with strong reactions on forums, where many express concerns about its implications.

Controversial Impact on Everyday Transactions

  1. Banning Cash Transactions: Commenters on forums emphasize that the bill effectively bans people from using cash for larger purchases. This move has drawn comparisons to stringent regulations in the EU, where similar cash limits exist.

  2. Concerns Over Criminal Activity: Questions arise about how this law addresses corruption and crime. One comment reflects a prevalent sentiment, stating, "How does limiting cash transactions stop crime?" Critics argue that criminals will find ways around such regulations, leaving innocent individuals impacted.

  3. Global Comparisons: Users referenced similar laws elsewhere, noting, "In France it's €1,000," suggesting a trend of limiting cash transactions worldwide.

Voices from the Community

"This is very serious because it bans cash transactions, making it hard on regular folks," said one commenter, voicing frustration about the new regulations.

Interestingly, a counter-argument emerged, with a user stating, "Honestly, this is good for monero and less corruption in government," indicating some see potential benefits in a more regulated cash economy.

Sentiment Overview

The general tone among commenters suggests stronger negative feelings towards the new law, with apprehensions about the potential for government overreach and its impact on daily life.

Key Points

  • 🚫 The law limits cash transactions to CAD 10,000 for various entities.

  • ❓ Critics question how this impacts crime, with many believing criminals will remain unaffected.

  • πŸ‡«πŸ‡· Similar legislation exists in other countries, raising concerns about a global trend.

  • βœ… Some support the move as a way to limit corruption and improve traceability in transactions.

As the debate unfolds, all eyes will be on the Parliament to see how this bill shapes the financial landscape in Canada.

Impending Shifts in Canada’s Cash Economy

Looking ahead, there’s a strong chance that businesses and charities will start adapting to Bill C-2 by shifting towards digital payment methods. Many may invest in electronic transaction systems to accommodate the change swiftly. Experts estimate that this could lead to a 30% increase in the use of credit and debit transactions across sectors. However, if public backlash intensifies, it could prompt a government reassessment of cash limits within a year, especially if reports indicating consumer hardship begin to surface. As the implementation rolls out, various stakeholders will watch closely to gauge both compliance levels and public response, which could shape future regulations.

Lessons from the Good Ol’ Prohibition

This scenario bears resemblance to the Prohibition era in the 1920s, where well-intended laws forced behavior underground rather than curbing the issues they sought to eliminate. Just as speakeasies thrived by dodging restrictions, the push for cash-free transactions might lead some individuals to seek alternative routes, such as unregulated digital currencies. The historical driver behind Prohibition, the chase for morality, did not eliminate the demand; instead, it created new challenges. Similarly, Bill C-2 may unintentionally spark a rise in the desire for privacy-oriented transactions, prompting a reevaluation of freedom in financial exchanges.