What important stipulation does the Criminal Code of Canada include regarding interest rates on credit?

The Criminal Code of Canada establishes a clear legal guideline concerning the charging of interest on loans. Specifically, it stipulates that any effective annual interest rate that exceeds 60% is considered criminal. This provision is designed to protect borrowers from predatory lending practices that can lead to unmanageable debt. By defining this threshold, the law aims to deter lenders from imposing excessively high rates that could exploit vulnerable individuals. The focus on an effective annual interest rate highlights the importance of understanding how interest compounds over time, ensuring that borrowers fully comprehend the total cost of borrowing. This guideline plays a crucial role in maintaining fair lending practices within Canada’s financial system.