When compared to other North American urban centres, Montreal’s economic growth has been sustained over the last years. Featuring great economic diversity, Montreal remains a commercial, financial, industrial and cultural centre. In recent years, increased developments in the fields of technology and creativity have powered Montreal’s economy and injected new life into the city. Montreal’s vitality is well represented by its real estate sector at a time of steadily rising demand. Largely spared from the worldwide economic downturn, Montreal is undergoing both economic and population growth. Low interest rates and a world-class banking system have greatly contributed to establishing a robust market in Montreal.