American Express Platinum Card vs Scotiabank Gold American Express
The short answer: for most people the American Express Platinum Card is the better overall card — we rate it 4.7/5 and it shines if you want frequent travellers who want top-tier lounge access and transferable points. Choose the Scotiabank Gold American Express instead if your priority is grocery shoppers and travellers who want no foreign transaction fees.
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| Our rating | 4.7 | 4.7 |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $799/yr | $120/yr |
| Welcome bonus | ~$1,200 | ~$650 |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.5% | None |
| Rewards type | points | points |
| Top earn rates |
|
|
| Purchase interest | 21.99% | 20.99% |
| Income required | None stated | None stated |
| Best for | Frequent travellers who want top-tier lounge access and transferable points | Grocery shoppers and travellers who want no foreign transaction fees |
| Apply now | Apply now |
American Express Platinum Card
Our winnerCanada's flagship premium travel card. The lounge access, travel credits and hotel status can outweigh the steep fee for those who travel often — and the points are the most flexible going.
Scotiabank Gold American Express
A do-it-all rewards card: category-leading grocery earning, strong dining and entertainment multipliers, and no FX fee for when you travel or shop in USD.
Frequently asked questions
Is the American Express Platinum Card or the Scotiabank Gold American Express better?
For most Canadians, the American Express Platinum Card is the better overall pick (we rate it 4.7/5 vs 4.7/5). It's especially strong if you want frequent travellers who want top-tier lounge access and transferable points. The Scotiabank Gold American Express can still win if you specifically want grocery shoppers and travellers who want no foreign transaction fees.
Which card has the lower annual fee?
The Scotiabank Gold American Express has the lower annual fee (a $120 annual fee vs a $799 annual fee).
Do either of these cards charge foreign transaction fees?
American Express Platinum Card: 2.5% foreign transaction fee. Scotiabank Gold American Express: no foreign transaction fee.