Harmonized Sales Tax (HST):

The sales tax structure in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland. Implemented on April 1, 1997, it combines each province's provincial sales tax (PST) with the federal Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Hedge:

As an example transaction by a consumer or producer of a metal designed to protect him against price fluctuations. A consumer of platinum, for instance, may "hedge" against a possible price increase by buying enough metal to cover his needs in the form of a futures contract. Futures markets were originally foe hedges, as opposed to speculators, by whom the market is now used predominantly.

High-Ratio Mortgage:

A conventional mortgage loan which exceeds 75% of the appraised value or purchase price of the property. This mortgage must be insured.

Home Banking:

A way to access bank accounts by phone or by computer (EDI). Typically customers can transfer funds, pay bills and make account inquiries.

Home Equity Loan:

A home equity loan is a line of credit secured by your home. Also called an "equity loan" or a "second mortgage," the Bank gives you the line of credit and places a second mortgage loan on your home until the debt is paid off. Once the debt is paid off, you can apply again for something else.

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