With over 1,550 public companies under coverage globally – including more than 1,000 across North America – RBC CM’s research franchise is distinguished by its depth. Its 2024 performance reflected a commitment to sector excellence, with its teams ranked number one or two in 17 of 18 industry sectors across Canada – number one in 11 sectors – according to Extel data. This success was not achieved in isolation but through close collaboration between analysts and markets professionals across North America and globally.
A defining factor in RBC’s research edge is its embrace of digital transformation. Central to that effort is Aiden QuickTakes, an AI-driven tool that accelerates the research publication process and has reduced turnaround time by over 60%. “It accesses years of historical research, press releases and filings – and generates a draft note in the analyst’s own style within minutes of a company’s earnings release, enabling our analysts to focus on higher-value analysis and client dialogue,” explains Derek Neldner, CEO and group head of RBC Capital Markets. “It has transformed productivity and allowed our clients to receive actionable insights faster than ever before.”
This shift isn’t just about speed – it’s about smarter insight. RBC has invested heavily in artificial intelligence and data analytics, integrating tools like RBC Elements, which uses alternative data – from port traffic to flight patterns – to generate unique economic and sector insights. These enhancements allow analysts to offer more predictive, forward-looking views that align with the increasingly complex needs of institutional clients across North America.
RBC CM’s ability to bring research to life is also evident in its expansive corporate access and events platform
The firm’s scale and digital integration have made it a standout in the US as well as in Canada. With one of the largest research footprints among North American banks, RBC CM combines local knowledge with global sector expertise – particularly valuable in high-growth verticals like technology, energy transition, and financial services. Canadian analysts frequently collaborate with US sector counterparts to provide differentiated coverage of cross-border companies and themes.
“Clients expect more than just written reports,” says Neldner. “They want insight, context, access and timely execution – and our platform delivers that across North America and globally. We leverage the depth and breadth of our global research coverage and augment our thought leadership reports with alternative data and AI. We further build on this through a very active conference programme, roadshows and other differentiated events for investors that makes it easy for them to evaluate businesses.”
RBC CM’s ability to bring research to life is also evident in its expansive corporate access and events platform. In 2024, the bank hosted more than 30 major research conferences and facilitated over 30,000 investor interactions. In-person roadshows for North American corporates were a particular strength, providing vital engagement opportunities for companies and institutional investors at a time when relationship-building remains critical to capital markets success.
In a year marked by volatile markets and shifting macroeconomic signals, RBC Capital Markets has redefined what world-class research looks like – fast, intelligent, deeply integrated, and always evolving.
