When it comes to choosing a premium credit card in Canada, two names often rise to the top: the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite and the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®. Both offer competitive value, but they cater to very different financial habits. Whether you’re someone who prefers predictable cash back on groceries and bills or you’re building toward free nights at global hotel destinations, picking the right card can help you get more out of your regular spending.

The Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite is known for its straightforward cash back on everyday essentials. With high rates in categories like groceries, subscriptions, and transit, it’s a card built for Canadian families and professionals looking to save on purchases they already make. In contrast, the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® is designed for travellers who want to turn daily spending into hotel stays, upgrades, and elite loyalty perks across Marriott’s global portfolio.

Both cards come with strong signup offers and are available through Great Canadian Rebates, where new cardholders can receive an additional $100 cash back with the Scotia card and $75 cash back with the Marriott card, on top of the card provider’s rewards.

1. Sign-up Offers and Welcome Value

Credit card welcome bonuses can offer hundreds of dollars in value, but only if they match your spending habits. Here’s how the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite and Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® compare at signup.

Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite*

For a limited time, this card offers 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months, capped at $2,000 in spending. That’s a potential $200 return, a strong value for everyday spending categories like groceries, gas, and subscriptions. Plus, the $120 annual fee is waived for the first year, including for supplementary cards.

This offer works well for those who want an early return without the need for excessive spending. It also rewards cardholders who make a wide variety of purchases, not just in bonus categories.

Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®*

This offer is built for those who spend more over time. You can earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points in total:

• 65,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
• 30,000 additional points after spending a total of $20,000 in the first 12 months
• 15,000 points with any purchase between months 15 and 17

Based on typical redemption rates, 110,000 points can range in value from $880 to over $1,600, depending on whether they’re redeemed for hotel stays, flights, or upgrades. However, to get the full value, you need to spread your spending across a full year and be willing to wait for a portion of the reward.

Takeaways:

• The Scotia Momentum card delivers faster, guaranteed value for lower spending thresholds.
• The Marriott Bonvoy card can offer more total value but requires higher, longer-term spending.
• For someone spending $3,000–$5,000 annually on a credit card, the Scotia bonus is more attainable.
• For someone with regular travel or business expenses who can hit the $20,000 spend, Marriott’s bonus scales higher.

2. Rewards Structure: Cash Back vs Points

How you earn on everyday spending matters as much as the welcome bonus. Both cards reward your purchases, but in very different ways.

Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite

This card offers tiered cash back rates that are ideal for household expenses:

• 4% on groceries, subscriptions, and recurring bills
• 2% on gas and daily transit
• 1% on everything else

For a $1,000 monthly spender who splits expenses across food, bills, fuel, and general items, the average return sits around $25–$35 per month in cash back. And because it’s credited directly to your account, there’s no need to track redemption values or partner programs.

Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®

The rewards system here revolves around points:

• 5 points per $1 at Marriott Bonvoy hotels
• 2 points per $1 on all other purchases

While these point values are flexible, they require a bit more attention to get the most value out of them. You’ll typically earn more when you redeem points for hotel stays, especially by taking advantage of the “5th night free” benefit on award bookings.

Transferring points to airline partners can also lead to higher value, particularly for business-class flights. For everyday spending, though, the return often works out to the equivalent of 1%–1.5% cash back, depending on how strategically you use your points.

Takeaways:

• Scotia Momentum favours routine spending with higher earn rates in daily categories.
• Marriott Bonvoy favours travellers and Marriott loyalists who book hotel stays often.
• Cash back is predictable and immediate; Bonvoy points fluctuate in value depending on when and how you use them.
• For those who prefer not to calculate point-to-dollar ratios, Scotia’s fixed rates offer assurance.

If you value simplicity and steady returns from your regular bills and grocery runs, Scotia wins here. If you spend at Marriott hotels and want to build toward premium stays, the Bonvoy card may pull ahead, especially when paired with strategic redemptions.

3. Point Value vs Cash Value

When comparing rewards, it’s not just about what you earn, but also about how you use them.

Cash Back: Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite

The Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite makes things simple. All cash back earned is automatically applied as a statement credit. No extra steps, no hidden redemption fees, and no confusing valuation charts.

• Spend $1,000 in a 4% category → earn $40
• Spend $1,000 in a 2% category → earn $20
• Spend $1,000 on everything else → earn $10

This straightforward structure ensures your rewards always hold their full dollar value. You’ll never worry about fluctuating rates or blackout dates.

Points: Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®

Points can go far if used well. Here’s what your Bonvoy points might help you:

• Hotels: Between 0.8 to 1.5 cents per point, depending on the hotel, location, and time of year
• Flights: Around 1 cent per point when transferred to airline partners
• Merchandise: Around 0.5 cents per point or less
• Gift Cards: Roughly 0.7–1 cent per point

So, spending $1,000 (earning 2,000 points) can get you:

• $16–$30 in hotel value (with optimal redemptions)
• $10–$20 in flight value
• $5–$10 in merchandise value

Takeaways:

• Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite’s cash back is consistent and easy to redeem
• Bonvoy points can be powerful, but require planning and travel-focused redemptions
• For hotel redemptions, Bonvoy points can deliver higher percentage returns than cash back
• For general redemptions or lower spenders, cash back usually wins on simplicity and dollar equivalence

In short, if you want a guaranteed return on your spending without extra steps, Scotia offers a cleaner experience. But if you enjoy finding travel deals and squeezing maximum value from your rewards, Bonvoy points open more doors.

4. Annual Benefits and Long-Term Value

Beyond the initial welcome bonus, both cards offer ongoing value that rewards loyalty and regular use. But they do so in very different ways.

With the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite, the long-term appeal lies in its high cash back rates in everyday categories. The 4% return on groceries and recurring bills doesn’t disappear after the promo period; it continues year-round. This makes it easy to generate ongoing value from common expenses, without the need for travel or advanced redemption strategies.

The card also includes a comprehensive insurance package, such as travel emergency medical, trip interruption, and new mobile device coverage, offering protection that can reduce out-of-pocket costs during emergencies or travel disruptions. The Visa Infinite program adds premium perks like hotel upgrades, wine and dining events, and a 24/7 concierge service.

Meanwhile, the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® is built for travellers looking to accumulate long-term rewards within a hotel loyalty program. Its biggest ongoing benefit is the Annual Free Night Award, which can be redeemed for a stay worth up to 35,000 Bonvoy points. Depending on the property and time of booking, this could easily match or exceed the $120 annual fee.

Cardholders also receive 15 Elite Night Credits each year, giving a head start toward higher elite tiers in the Marriott Bonvoy program. Those who spend $30,000 annually on the card or combine paid nights with their elite credits can unlock Gold Elite status, which comes with room upgrades and late checkout privileges.

For everyday users who want reliable returns from domestic spending, Scotia Momentum’s structure may be more appealing. For travellers or those planning future trips, the long-term value of free nights and status perks through Marriott Bonvoy adds up quickly. The decision comes down to whether you prefer tangible savings on your bills or enhanced travel experiences and rewards.

5. Fees, Rates & Eligibility

When evaluating premium credit cards, it’s important to weigh the cost of ownership. Both the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite and the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® come with an annual fee of $120, but how that fee plays out in value differs slightly.

Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite offers a full first-year fee waiver, which applies to both the primary card and any supplementary cards. This makes it especially useful for households or couples who want to share one account. After the first year, there’s a $50 fee per additional card, so the benefits need to outweigh those costs moving forward.

With the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®, there’s no waiver on the primary card’s annual fee, but supplementary cards are free. That means family members can earn Bonvoy points on their spending without adding to the card’s cost. If used actively, the Annual Free Night Award can offset the yearly fee on its own.

On interest rates, both cards carry high standard rates for purchases and cash advances, as is typical for rewards cards. Scotia charges 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances, while the Marriott Amex is slightly higher at 21.99% for both categories. Neither card is ideal for carrying a balance, so they’re best suited for cardholders who pay off their statements in full each month.

In terms of approval, the Scotia Momentum card has clear income requirements: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household income, and a recommended credit score of 725 or higher. The Marriott Bonvoy card is more flexible, with no listed income minimums, making it more accessible to users with solid credit but moderate incomes. However, as with all Amex cards, approval also depends on current credit obligations and past cardholder history.

6. Ideal User Profile

Each card serves a very specific type of user, and choosing the right one depends on how you spend and what you want in return.

The Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite is built for Canadians who value consistent cash back across essential expenses. If most of your monthly budget goes toward groceries, utility bills, fuel, and subscriptions, you’ll benefit from its generous earn rates. The simplicity of automatic statement credits also makes it attractive to anyone who wants hassle-free savings without tracking points or browsing redemption portals. It’s especially useful for families and professionals looking to squeeze more out of regular spending categories. If you’re a budget-conscious shopper who prefers direct value back into your pocket, this card delivers on that front.

The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®, on the other hand, fits users who travel often, or at least plan to. Even if you don’t spend a large amount on hotels now, this card makes it easier to build toward free nights and elite status perks over time. If you enjoy planning trips around hotel stays, want room upgrades, or are already part of the Marriott ecosystem, the benefits can multiply quickly.

Ultimately, if your goal is to reduce your monthly bills with guaranteed cash back, Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite makes more sense. But if you’re willing to manage a points-based system and trade up daily spending for luxury travel experiences, the Marriott Bonvoy credit card could prove more rewarding. Understanding your spending habits and how often you redeem is the key to choosing a better fit.

7. Cash Back Rebate Through Great Canadian Rebates

One advantage that sets both of these cards apart is the exclusive cash back rebate offered through Great Canadian Rebates (GCR). When you apply through GCR’s platform and are approved, you receive extra cash back directly from GCR, independent of the card issuer’s own rewards.

• The Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite offers a $100 rebate.
• The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® offers a $75 rebate.

These rebates are on top of the cards’ welcome bonuses and ongoing rewards, meaning you’re effectively lowering your cost of ownership from day one. For Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite cardholders, that $100 nearly cancels out the second-year annual fee. For Marriott Bonvoy applicants, the $75 rebate helps cover part of the fee while you earn toward your first free night.

To qualify, make sure you:

• Start and complete the application in one browser session.
• Do not navigate away from the GCR link or let the session expire.
• Save any reference numbers in case of issues.
• Report any missing rebate within three months.

Both rebates add meaningful upfront value. Whether you’re choosing based on travel rewards or day-to-day savings, applying through GCR gives you an immediate edge.

8. Which One Wins?

At a glance, both cards appear similar—they carry the same annual fee, offer travel perks, and reward your everyday spending. But how they reward you, and how quickly those rewards turn into real value, is what separates them.

The Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite is all about predictable returns. You get a generous 4% on household essentials, 2% on gas and transit, and 1% on everything else. Cash back is credited automatically, without needing to track categories or redemption options. The welcome bonus pays out quickly, with no annual fee in year one, and the $100 GCR rebate makes the deal even sweeter. For the average Canadian who wants to earn something every time they pay a bill, buy groceries, or take public transit, this card works quietly in the background while delivering real returns.

The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® leans into travel value. Its signup bonus can be worth well over $1,000 in hotel stays if you’re a regular traveller. The annual free night, elite night credits, and potential upgrades make it highly appealing for anyone who stays at Marriott properties at least once a year. If you’re planning trips, managing business expenses, or want to work your way toward elite status, the Marriott Bonvoy card unlocks options that go beyond just a credit statement.

So which one wins?

• Choose Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite if:
  • You want automatic cash back with no learning curve
  • Your monthly spending includes a lot of groceries, bills, and fuel
  • You want to see value quickly with low effort
• Choose Marriott Bonvoy Amex if:
  • You travel regularly or plan to stay at Marriott hotels
  • You’re comfortable managing points for greater value
  • You’re aiming for elite hotel benefits or premium travel redemptions

Each card delivers in its own lane. It isn’t about who offers more rewards. It’s about how well those rewards match your spending style. Cash back lovers and household spenders will likely prefer Scotia Momentum. Travel enthusiasts and hotel loyalists may find more lasting value with the Bonvoy Amex.

9. Side-by-Side Comparison

Whether you prefer a cash back credit card that gives you a fixed return on every purchase, the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite delivers consistent value for everyday spending. If you’re the kind of cardholder who enjoys earning and redeeming points for premium travel perks, the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® offers strong rewards for frequent travellers.

The Scotia Momentum® card keeps things simple and rewarding for anyone managing day-to-day costs. With cash back rates that reflect the average household budget and a straightforward redemption structure, it’s ideal for those who prefer clarity over complexity. Add in the $100 rebate from Great Canadian Rebates and the waived first-year fee, and it becomes one of the most practical choices on the market.

The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® card, on the other hand, appeals to travellers who want their purchases to go further. The welcome bonus, free annual night, and loyalty perks all build toward a richer travel experience. For those who stay at Marriott properties or want to grow their points stash for future getaways, the card offers long-term value that can far exceed its cost.

Before you apply, ask yourself where you spend the most and how you want to be rewarded for it.

Maximize Your Credit Card Rewards with Great Canadian Rebates

When choosing between top options like the Marriott Bonvoy credit cards in Canada or the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite, applying through Great Canadian Rebates gives you more. You’ll get cash back on approved applications, stacked on top of the card issuer’s rewards.

We also offer exclusive rebates on the Amex Business Platinum Card, Amex Gold Credit Card, American Express Cobalt, TD Infinite Visa Cash Back, and Tangerine Cash Back Credit Card. If you’re after the top-rated cash back credit cards, GCR helps you earn more from the start.

Plus, members save extra at retailers like SportChek, Canadian Tire, SHEIN, Staples, AliExpress Canada, and more with promo codes and rebates.