It's also a function of Canada (or at any rate Ontario) not having been annexed by the United States at any point, something which could have easily happened - e.g. during the War of 1812. If Toronto had ended up being an American city, it might have ended up being more similar to, say, Cleveland in significance. Montreal (my own city) might have ended up remaining more significant of a city to this day.
Also, without the Quebec nationalist crisis of the late 1970s and early 1980s, Toronto might have overtaken Montreal in significance for Canada and beyond, anyway - given that Toronto was already growing faster (demographically and financially) than Montreal especially after WWII. It might have taken a good 10 years or so longer, though.
Realistically, BMO operates out of First Canadian Place in Toronto, where its central leadership and major functions are based. However, the bank officially designates its Montreal offices as its headquarters — a nuanced distinction that reflects both its historical roots and a careful communications balance.
It's also a function of Canada (or at any rate Ontario) not having been annexed by the United States at any point, something which could have easily happened - e.g. during the War of 1812. If Toronto had ended up being an American city, it might have ended up being more similar to, say, Cleveland in significance. Montreal (my own city) might have ended up remaining more significant of a city to this day.
Also, without the Quebec nationalist crisis of the late 1970s and early 1980s, Toronto might have overtaken Montreal in significance for Canada and beyond, anyway - given that Toronto was already growing faster (demographically and financially) than Montreal especially after WWII. It might have taken a good 10 years or so longer, though.
Post script: NY, Philly and Boston are based on river deltas. Good piece.
Realistically, BMO operates out of First Canadian Place in Toronto, where its central leadership and major functions are based. However, the bank officially designates its Montreal offices as its headquarters — a nuanced distinction that reflects both its historical roots and a careful communications balance.