Canada’s Muslim population is growing fast and so is the need for Islamic-friendly mortgages.  As a result, several Canadian institutions are developing “sharia-compliant” mortgages as we speak.  The Royal Bank reportedly tested such a product as well, but without much success.  Nonetheless, the Globe & Mail reports that a major Canadian bank will unveil a Muslim mortgage alternative in the next 18 months.  Currently primarily smaller lenders–mostly credit unions–offer these products.  Islamic mortgages are similar to rent-to-own arrangements.  The idea is to avoid interest since charging interest is not allowed in the Muslim faith.  Canada has an estimated 750,000-1,000,000 Muslims.

Last modified: May 9, 2007