CBC Marketplace Is Calling Out the Businesses Costing Canadians Money
Canadians already stretched thin by the cost of living don't need surprise charges tacked onto their bills — but that's exactly what CBC's Marketplace is highlighting in its latest consumer roundup.
The weekly Cheat Sheet, which compiles the most pressing consumer and health stories making headlines, is shining a spotlight on two issues that have frustrated Canadians coast to coast: hidden fees from rental car companies and a ticket scalping scheme operating through StubHub.
Rental Car Companies Under the Microscope
Renting a car in Canada can feel like signing a contract written in invisible ink. You book a vehicle at one rate, then arrive at the counter to find a parade of add-ons: insurance waivers, fuel surcharges, young driver fees, airport premiums — the list goes on.
Marketplace's investigation into rental car charges is the latest in a long line of exposés targeting the industry's fine print. For consumers, the takeaway is familiar but worth repeating: always read the full rental agreement before you sign, decline duplicate coverage if your credit card or personal auto insurance already covers rentals, and document the vehicle's condition before driving off the lot.
For Ottawans heading out of town this spring or summer — whether flying out of YOW or picking up a car for a road trip — it's a timely reminder to scrutinize every line item before handing over a credit card.
StubHub and the Scalping Problem
Ticket scalping has become one of the most persistent frustrations for live event fans in Canada. With major concerts and sports events selling out in minutes, secondary market platforms like StubHub have become the only option for many fans — but at a steep cost.
Marketplace's latest reporting exposes how scalping schemes operate on these platforms, often driving up prices far beyond face value and leaving ordinary fans locked out of events they love.
The issue hits close to home for concert and sports fans across the country. Whether it's a Senators playoff run at Canadian Tire Centre or a touring artist coming through Ottawa's arena circuit, ticket markups on resale platforms can turn an affordable night out into a luxury expense.
Advocates have been pushing for stronger federal and provincial regulations around ticket resale for years, and investigations like this one help maintain public pressure on lawmakers to act.
Why Marketplace Matters
CBC's Marketplace has been holding corporations accountable on behalf of Canadian consumers since 1965. In an era of shrinking newsroom budgets, its continued investment in undercover investigations and consumer advocacy journalism is something Canadians across the country rely on.
The weekly Cheat Sheet format makes it easy to stay on top of the stories that affect your wallet — from grocery pricing to travel fees to online scams. If you're not already following along, it's worth bookmarking.
Source: CBC Marketplace via CBC Top Stories RSS. Full details available at cbc.ca/marketplace.
