American Express
Runs its own network and issues its own cards.
American Express is unusual in being both a network and an issuer. That vertical integration funds richer benefits and a strong transferable points programme, but acceptance is narrower than Visa or Mastercard, especially at small merchants and outside the United States. Many people carry an Amex alongside a Visa or Mastercard for that reason.
The bank decides, not the network
Rewards, interest rate, annual fee and most benefits are set by whichever bank issued your card. Compare issuers on the banks page, which is where the differences that actually affect you live.
Researching and writing about Canadian personal finance since 2026.
Last reviewed August 2026 · How we research
“American Express.” VaultNerd, https://www.vaultnerd.com/networks/american-express, updated August 2026.
- American Express published network documentation