Which card has the best welcome bonus?

The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard currently offers up to 115,000 BMO Rewards points (about $770 in travel value), plus the first-year annual fee waiver (a $150 saving). The National Bank World Elite Mastercard offers a first-year annual fee rebate (a $150 value). The BMO Ascend clearly wins on the welcome offer, especially with the first-year annual fee waiver that adds even more net value.

What are the earn rates for both cards?

The BMO Ascend World Elite earns 5 points/$ on travel, 3 points/$ on dining, entertainment, and recurring bills, and 1 point/$ elsewhere. The National Bank World Elite offers up to 5 points/$ on groceries and restaurants (capped at $2,500/month), 2 points/$ on gas, bills, and travel, and 1 point/$ elsewhere. The National Bank World Elite excels for everyday spending thanks to its 5x grocery/restaurant category, while the BMO Ascend dominates for regular travel.

Which card offers the best travel benefits?

The BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard includes 4 complimentary airport lounge passes via Mastercard Travel Pass, a NEXUS credit of up to $200 in the first year, and medical insurance up to $5 million. The National Bank World Elite offsets its fees with a $150 annual travel credit and offers exceptional travel insurance. For frequent travelers, both cards are competitive, with a slight advantage to National Bank due to the recurring annual credit.

Which card should I choose between the BMO Ascend and National Bank World Elite?

The choice depends on your habits: the BMO Ascend World Elite is suitable for travelers (5x on travel, lounges, NEXUS, more generous welcome bonus). The National Bank World Elite is better for households with high grocery/restaurant spending (up to 5x on $2,500/month) and for those who want an automatic $150 travel credit. Both have a $150 annual fee and a minimum income requirement of $80,000/$150,000.

Jean-Maximilien Voisine

Jean-Maximilien Voisine is the President and Founder of Milesopedia and a leading expert in rewards programs, credit cards, and travel across Canada, France, and the U.S.A. Now 40 years old and a father of two, he has explored more than 100 countries—many of them alongside his wife Audrey and their children. Specializing in loyalty programs such as Aeroplan, Flying Blue, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, Jean-Maximilien helps travellers unlock the full potential of their points and benefits. His mission: empower others to travel better and smarter across North America and Europe.

All posts by Jean-Maximilien Voisine