My opinion on AvaTrade
AvaTrade stands out as one of the few globally recognized brokers fully regulated for CFD trading in Canada, offering a wide array of assets, robust trading platforms, and a secure environment—all at competitive spreads with transparent fee structures.With regulation through IIROC and CIPF protection (via Friedberg Direct), AvaTrade provides Canadian traders with access to over 1,250 instruments including forex, indices, commodities, stocks, ETFs, and crypto CFDs, supported by powerful platforms like MT4, MT5, and a proprietary mobile app.Compared to main competitors, AvaTrade’s pricing is competitive (EUR/USD spreads from 0.9 pips, zero commissions on most trades), though all assets are delivered via CFDs rather than direct ownership; its key strength is the combination of local compliance, wide asset variety, and leveraged trading opportunities.Founded in 2006 and serving over 400,000 registered clients globally, AvaTrade has built a reputation for reliability and innovation in the trading community.The broker holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.0/5 based on 10,433+ reviews, highlighting positive client support, user-friendly tools, and dependable execution.Based on my experience, AvaTrade is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Canadian traders looking for a locally regulated CFD broker: AvaTrade is one of the few global brokers authorized by IIROC, offering peace of mind with CIPF protection and a strong regulatory framework.
➡️ Multi-asset traders seeking wide market access via CFDs: With over 1,250 instruments—including forex, indices, commodities, stocks, ETFs, and crypto CFDs—AvaTrade supports portfolio diversification across multiple sectors.
➡️ Traders who value platform flexibility and mobile access: AvaTrade offers MT4, MT5, and a proprietary mobile app, catering to both traditional and on-the-go traders with advanced tools and copy trading options.
➡️ Cost-conscious traders who want transparent pricing without hidden fees: Spreads starting from 0.9 pips on EUR/USD and no commissions on most trades make AvaTrade an appealing option for those who want a balanced cost-performance ratio.
- ✅Fully IIROC regulated with CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅Wide asset coverage: 1,250+ CFDs (forex, stocks, indices, ETFs, commodities, bonds, crypto)
- ✅Competitive spreads (e.g., EUR/USD from 0.9 pips) and no trading commissions on CFDs
- ✅Leverage up to 1:50 on forex, 1:20 on indices, 1:10 on commodities, and 1:2 on crypto (as per Canadian regulations)
- ✅Multiple powerful trading platforms (MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader)
- ✅Copy trading via AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade
- ✅Advanced trading tools: automated trading, one-click execution, robust charting
- ✅Free demo accounts with $100,000 in virtual funds
- ✅No deposit or AvaTrade withdrawal fees
- ✅Responsive customer support available in English and French
- ❌All trading is limited to CFDs—no direct stock or crypto ownership
- ❌Inactivity fees apply ($50 after 3 months, $100 after 12 months of inactivity)
- ❌Overnight financing (swap) fees on leveraged CFD positions
- ❌No Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Canadian users
- ❌Crypto services are limited to CFDs only (no staking, wallet, lending, or direct transfers)
- ❌Limited number of crypto tokens compared to dedicated crypto exchanges
- ❌Wire transfers are primary withdrawal method for Canadians (may incur processing delays or third-party bank fees)
- ❌Minimum deposit of $300 CAD is higher than some global fintech competitors
Score- ✅Fully IIROC regulated with CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅Wide asset coverage: 1,250+ CFDs (forex, stocks, indices, ETFs, commodities, bonds, crypto)
- ✅Competitive spreads (e.g., EUR/USD from 0.9 pips) and no trading commissions on CFDs
- ✅Leverage up to 1:50 on forex, 1:20 on indices, 1:10 on commodities, and 1:2 on crypto (as per Canadian regulations)
- ✅Multiple powerful trading platforms (MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader)
- ✅Copy trading via AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade
- ✅Advanced trading tools: automated trading, one-click execution, robust charting
- ✅Free demo accounts with $100,000 in virtual funds
- ✅No deposit or AvaTrade withdrawal fees
- ✅Responsive customer support available in English and French
My opinion on AvaTrade
- ✅Fully IIROC regulated with CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅Wide asset coverage: 1,250+ CFDs (forex, stocks, indices, ETFs, commodities, bonds, crypto)
- ✅Competitive spreads (e.g., EUR/USD from 0.9 pips) and no trading commissions on CFDs
- ✅Leverage up to 1:50 on forex, 1:20 on indices, 1:10 on commodities, and 1:2 on crypto (as per Canadian regulations)
- ✅Multiple powerful trading platforms (MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader)
- ✅Copy trading via AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade
- ✅Advanced trading tools: automated trading, one-click execution, robust charting
- ✅Free demo accounts with $100,000 in virtual funds
- ✅No deposit or AvaTrade withdrawal fees
- ✅Responsive customer support available in English and French
- ❌All trading is limited to CFDs—no direct stock or crypto ownership
- ❌Inactivity fees apply ($50 after 3 months, $100 after 12 months of inactivity)
- ❌Overnight financing (swap) fees on leveraged CFD positions
- ❌No Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Canadian users
- ❌Crypto services are limited to CFDs only (no staking, wallet, lending, or direct transfers)
- ❌Limited number of crypto tokens compared to dedicated crypto exchanges
- ❌Wire transfers are primary withdrawal method for Canadians (may incur processing delays or third-party bank fees)
- ❌Minimum deposit of $300 CAD is higher than some global fintech competitors
Score- ✅Fully IIROC regulated with CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅Wide asset coverage: 1,250+ CFDs (forex, stocks, indices, ETFs, commodities, bonds, crypto)
- ✅Competitive spreads (e.g., EUR/USD from 0.9 pips) and no trading commissions on CFDs
- ✅Leverage up to 1:50 on forex, 1:20 on indices, 1:10 on commodities, and 1:2 on crypto (as per Canadian regulations)
- ✅Multiple powerful trading platforms (MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader)
- ✅Copy trading via AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade
- ✅Advanced trading tools: automated trading, one-click execution, robust charting
- ✅Free demo accounts with $100,000 in virtual funds
- ✅No deposit or AvaTrade withdrawal fees
- ✅Responsive customer support available in English and French
Why trust Hellosafe?
I tested AvaTrade in real conditions to see if it truly lives up to its reputation for Canadian traders. I opened a live account, explored the different platforms (MT4, MT5, AvaTradeGO), checked how easy it was to deposit and withdraw, analyzed spread costs during various market hours, and interacted directly with their customer support to see how quickly and clearly they resolve issues.
After putting AvaTrade side by side with other IIROC-regulated brokers, I noticed some genuine strengths—like the range of platforms, the comfort of Canadian regulation and CIPF protection, and convenient copy trading features. I also experienced a few drawbacks, including occasional higher spreads and inactivity fees to watch out for. These opinions are drawn from hands-on trading, not just reading online claims.
So, if you’re weighing AvaTrade’s reliability, suitability for beginners or seasoned traders, or how it really stacks up against other platforms, my feedback comes straight from actual use and candid comparison—not from a sales pitch. I aim to give you a transparent look at what works, what doesn’t, and where AvaTrade fits in Canada’s trading market.
AvaTrade at a Glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Dépôt minimum | $300 CAD (or $250 USD) |
| 🛡️ Régulation | IIROC (via Friedberg Direct), CIPF member |
| 🔗 Licence crypto | Crypto CFDs offered (no direct ownership) |
| 📝 Enregistrement FSMA | Not applicable for Canada |
| 📈 Actifs disponibles | 1,250+ (Forex, stocks/ETFs CFDs, indices, commodities, crypto CFDs, options) |
| 📊 Plateformes de trading | MetaTrader 4 & 5, AvaTradeGO, AvaOptions, WebTrader |
| 🛠️ Outils de trading | Advanced charting, automated trading, copy trading via AvaSocial/DupliTrade/ZuluTrade, risk management |
| 🕹️ Compte démo | Yes, 21 days (extendable), $100,000 virtual capital |
| ☪️ Compte islamique | Not explicitly available for Canadian users |
| 📝 Ordres clés | Market, Limit, Stop Loss, Take Profit, Trailing Stop, Entry Orders |
| ⚡ Effet de levier | Up to 1:50 (forex), 1:20 (indices), 1:10 (commodities), 1:2 (crypto CFDs) |
| 💸 Frais | No deposit/withdrawal fee, spreads from 0.9 pips (EUR/USD), inactivity fees apply |
| 📞 Support client | Phone, email, live chat, available Mon-Fri, 24h; English & French |
| 🌟 Avis Trustpilot | 4.0 / 5 (10,000+ reviews) |
Security & Regulation
AvaTrade stands out as a robust option for security and reliability among global brokers operating in Canada. Its key strength is its partnership with Friedberg Direct, providing access under the direct supervision of IIROC—a tier-1 Canadian regulator. This ensures all client accounts benefit from local investor protection through CIPF coverage, which is rare among international CFD providers.
Client funds are held in segregated accounts and AvaTrade does not custody or lend out client assets, which offers an added degree of protection in the event of broker insolvency. While crypto trading is limited to CFDs and not physical assets, all crypto exposure is managed within the regulated CFD structure, reducing counterparty risk.
On risk controls, AvaTrade integrates essential trading protections such as mandatory stop loss, negative balance protection, and supports two-factor authentication for account security. Its long track record globally and strong adoption in Canada, combined with positive user reputations and satisfactory Trustpilot reviews, reinforce my view that AvaTrade represents a higher-than-average standard of trust and reliability for Canadian traders seeking leveraged CFD and forex access.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC (via Friedberg Direct), CIPF protection, global tier-1 oversight; no direct crypto license, but robust local authorization | 5/5 |
| Fund security | Segregated client accounts, CIPF protection, no lending; CFD-only for crypto (no direct custody but within IIROC oversight) | 5/5 |
| Risk management tools | Stop loss, negative balance protection, 2FA enabled | 4.5/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Strong global brand, 15+ years of operation, Trustpilot 4.0/5 (10,000+ reviews), widely recognized by users in Canada | 4.5/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
AvaTrade stands out as a competitive broker for Canadian traders looking for broad CFD market access, but its fee structure deserves careful attention—especially since all trading occurs via CFDs rather than buying the underlying assets. The standard account, with a minimum deposit of $250 USD, does not charge direct commissions on most trades. Instead, AvaTrade embeds its compensation within the spreads, which range from tight to average compared to other IIROC-regulated brokers. For EUR/USD, I observe spreads often start at 0.9 pips, competitive but not as sharp as true ECN/Raw accounts you might find elsewhere globally.
Stock and ETF CFDs incur no additional commission but are subject to spreads starting around 0.13%. This is reasonably transparent and cost-effective for moderate-volume traders, though high-frequency scalpers may find tighter spreads at specialist DMA or ECN brokers. There are no "hidden" costs in terms of deposit or withdrawal fees imposed by AvaTrade, but I point out that external bank charges might still apply, depending on your financial institution.
A point of caution is the inactivity fee: $50 after three months of account inactivity, escalating to a $100 administration fee after 12 months. While this is clearly detailed up front, it can catch out less active traders. I also note a 0.5% currency conversion fee applied whenever trades or withdrawals involve a currency exchange—a rate that is tolerable, though still above what’s available from pure forex or multi-currency brokers.
CFD trading on indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies typically involves wider spreads than forex, often fluctuating with volatility. Gold and major indices have spreads that are quite reasonable (from 0.34 for gold and $0.25 for S&P 500), and crypto CFDs remain more expensive, with spreads starting from 0.25%. Overnight (swap) fees apply to all leveraged positions held past market close, and these are in line with global CFD standards, yet can be material for longer-term positions, particularly in cryptos and commodities.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at AvaTrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0 |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (AvaTrade), bank fees may apply | $0–$25 |
| Inactivity fee | $50 (after 3 months), $100 (after 12) | $10–$50 (per 3/6 mo) |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.5% | 0.3%–1.0% |
Trader Tip — Trip
Keep your trading activity consistent or actively close your account if you plan periods of inactivity. Even modest trades once a quarter can help you avoid unnecessary inactivity charges, which are notably higher after a year of dormancy.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
AvaTrade offers access to stocks and ETFs exclusively via CFDs, meaning all costs are built into variable spreads without classical commissions. Commissions are $0, and spreads are competitive for mid-cap and large-cap names, but overnight holding fees and a lack of direct asset ownership are notable distinctions compared to traditional brokers.
| Fee Type | Conditions at AvaTrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $0 (spread-only) | $0–$9.99/trade |
| Spread fee | from 0.13% (variable) | 0.10%–0.30% |
| Overnight fee | Applies; varies by stock, from $0.01 | $0.01–$0.05/share |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$25/year |
| UK stamp duty tax | 0% (CFDs exempt) | 0%–0.5% |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Crypto is offered only through CFDs at AvaTrade, so there’s no classic buy/sell fee or custody charge—just a single, all-inclusive spread, and an overnight fee for holding leveraged positions outside market hours. Spreads start at 0.25% for major coins and can widen considerably during market volatility. There are no transfer fees as you do not own the underlying tokens.
| Fee Type | Conditions at AvaTrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | Built into spread (from 0.25%) | 0.2%–1% (maker/taker) |
| Spread fees | From 0.25% (variable) | 0.2%–2.0% |
| Overnight fees | Yes (applies to all leverage) | Standard (variable) |
| Custody fees | $0 (CFDs, no underlying asset) | $0–$5/month |
| Transfer fees | Not applicable | $0–$10/crypto tx |
What are the fees on CFDs?
AvaTrade’s CFD pricing is spread-only and varies by market. Forex spreads are competitive for a no-commission model. Stock, commodity, and crypto CFD spreads are moderate, but overnight financing can add up for swing or position trades. There is no extra charge for opening or closing a CFD position aside from these embedded costs.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at AvaTrade | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 1:5 | from 0.13% | from $0.01/stock | 0.10%–0.35% |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 1:10 | from $0.34 | variable | $0.30–$0.50 |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 1:10 | from $0.029 | variable | $0.02–$0.05 |
| Oil (WTI) | 1:10 | from $0.03 | variable | $0.02–$0.05 |
| EUR/USD | 1:50 | from 0.9 pips | variable | 0.6–1.2 pips |
| EUR/GBP | 1:50 | from 1.5 pips | variable | 1.0–2.5 pips |
| USD/JPY | 1:50 | from 1.1 pips | variable | 0.8–1.5 pips |
| GBP/USD | 1:50 | from 1.6 pips | variable | 1.0–2.5 pips |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 1:10 | from 2.0 | variable | 1.5–3.0 |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 1:2 | from 0.25% | variable | 0.20%–2.0% |
Assets & Markets
AvaTrade offers a focused and strategic asset lineup for Canadians seeking opportunities in leveraged trading via CFDs. I appreciate the breadth across key asset classes: 50+ forex pairs, over 600 stock CFDs from major markets, more than 40 ETF CFDs, 30+ global indices, and a compelling range of commodities including metals and energies. This presents a robust set of instruments for tactical and systematic trading—all on globally respected platforms like MetaTrader 4/5 and AvaTradeGO.
Cryptocurrency traders have access to 14+ major digital assets, but only through CFDs, which facilitates both long and short strategies using leverage. The absence of spot crypto, stablecoins, or blockchain-based asset transfer capability reflects AvaTrade's pure trading orientation. Those seeking to own or transfer underlying coins will need to look elsewhere, but for directional or volatility-based tactics within a regulated Canadian environment, the crypto CFD selection is sound for most needs.
AvaTrade does not provide physical stocks, ETFs, or bonds; everything is CFD-based. While this unlocks efficient speculation for short-term traders, long-term investors and those wishing to build a spot equity or fixed-income portfolio will find the platform inadequate. Bonds are available periodically as CFDs, though the choice is limited and secondary to equities, forex, and indices in both liquidity and coverage.
A standout advantage is the inclusion of options trading (via AvaOptions), which broadens possibilities for advanced risk management and volatility strategies rarely offered by Canada-compliant brokers in the CFD space. Indices, particularly those from North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, are well-represented and available with competitive leverage. Overall, I find AvaTrade’s coverage versatile for active CFD traders, especially if you value the integration of copy trading, advanced automation, and mobile-first execution.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at AvaTrade | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | CFD | 600+ | 300–2,000 | Tesla, TD Bank, Amazon, Shopify |
| ETFs | CFD | 40+ | 20–100 | SPDR S&P 500 ETF CFD, Invesco QQQ Trust CFD |
| Cryptocurrencies | CFD | 14+ | 10–30 | BTC/USD, ETH/USD, XRP/USD |
| Currencies | Forex (spot, CFD) | 50+ | 30–70 | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, GBP/USD |
| Commodities | CFD | 20+ | 10–30 | Gold, Silver, Crude Oil, Natural Gas |
| Indices | CFD | 30+ | 15–40 | S&P 500, TSX 60, NASDAQ 100, DAX 40 |
| Bonds | CFD | Limited | 5–20 | US 10Y Treasury CFD, UK Gilt CFD |
| Stablecoins | Not available | N/A | 1–5 | N/A |
| NFTs | Not available | N/A | 0–3 (rare) | N/A |
| Other derivatives | Options (CFD) | 40+ underlying assets | 20–60 | EUR/USD options, S&P 500 options (via AvaOptions) |
Trading Tools and Apps
AvaTrade offers a robust and flexible platform selection, providing traders in Canada with access to MetaTrader 4 and 5 (MT4/MT5), a proprietary WebTrader, AvaTradeGO mobile app, and AvaOptions for advanced options strategies. The overall user experience is smooth, especially for those familiar with MetaTrader—MT4/MT5 remain the benchmarks for retail trading, supporting a vast library of tools, indicators, and automated strategies. AvaTradeGO stands out for its modern design, ease of navigation, and seamless trade execution, making it particularly well suited for mobile users who prioritize quick access and account management.
For technical analysis, AvaTrade’s integration with both MT4/MT5 and proprietary tools enables access to a wide range of charting features, technical indicators, drawing tools, and timeframes. This is especially powerful for advanced traders, yet the clean interface and clear workflows in both AvaTradeGO and WebTrader make the platforms accessible to beginners interested in forex and CFD markets. Real-time pricing, fast execution, and strong stability during volatile sessions are consistent across all platforms.
Automation is another notable strength: MT4/MT5 let traders deploy Expert Advisors (EAs) for systematic and algorithmic trading, while AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, and DupliTrade open up multiple paths for signal following and copy trading. Although AvaTrade does not offer a dedicated API for custom or high-frequency strategies, the range of copy trading solutions and support for EAs covers most practical needs for retail algorithmic trading.
Negative balance protection comes standard, which is critical for CFD and leveraged trading, providing extra security for traders of all experience levels. While there’s no direct spot stock purchase (all equities are CFDs), and the crypto offering is also CFD-only (no staking or wallets), the multi-platform setup and range of order types—market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, OCO—enable precision risk management and flexible execution.
There are some limitations: advanced scripting and AI strategy backtesting are restricted to what’s available in MetaTrader; proprietary desktop analytics and third-party integration (such as TradingView plug-ins) are absent. The lack of direct staking or spot crypto may disappoint dedicated crypto enthusiasts but is consistent with regulatory constraints in Canada.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | AvaTradeGO, MT4, MT5 available for iOS/Android; no separate crypto wallet or TradingView app |
| Usability | Fluid, intuitive interfaces on all platforms; mobile and web well-suited for beginners and active traders |
| Compatible software | MetaTrader 4/5 (desktop, web, mobile), AvaTradeGO app, WebTrader, AvaOptions; no TradingView or crypto API |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, entry orders, OCO (conditional) |
| Charting and technical analysis | 50+ built-in indicators (MT4/MT5), drawing tools, multiple timeframes; strong but no TradingView-level linking |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Supported via MT4/MT5 EAs; copy trading on AvaSocial, ZuluTrade, DupliTrade |
| Algorithmic trading | EAs/scripts in MetaTrader; AI or custom API strategies not available |
| Negative balance protection | Yes—applies to all CFD/Forex trades |
| Trading signals | Integrated via MT4/MT5 and copy trading platforms; notifications available in-app |
| Asset search and filters | Effective built-in asset finder for forex, CFD, and crypto markets; no screening for spot stocks |
| Spot stock purchase | Not available (CFDs only for equities) |
| Staking and earn | Not available; no crypto wallet features or staking |
Trader Tip
Take advantage of the demo account on AvaTrade to test platform layouts, try out Expert Advisors or copy trading solutions, and practice order placement without risk. Compare execution speed and visibility of risk controls between AvaTradeGO and MT4/MT5 to optimize your preferred workflow before going live.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
To open an account with AvaTrade, start by completing the online registration form, where you provide personal details and set up your login credentials. The process then requires you to verify your identity by uploading a government-issued photo ID and proof of address (such as a recent utility bill or bank statement). A brief regulatory questionnaire will assess your trading experience and financial suitability, in line with Canadian KYC and AML regulations. Once all sections are complete and documents are uploaded, AvaTrade’s compliance team reviews your application—this usually takes from a few hours up to 1–2 business days. When your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email, and your account will be ready for funding and trading.
Good to know
Choosing your base currency (CAD or USD) at account creation can help you avoid unnecessary conversion costs later. Verification times may be longer during periods of high demand or if documents are unclear.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Complete online form, upload KYC documents, answer regulatory questionnaire |
| Validation time | Typically 1–2 business days (may be faster or longer depending on documentation) |
| Accepted deposit methods | Credit/debit card, bank wire transfer, e-wallets (varies by region) |
| Minimum required deposit | $300 CAD (CAD account) or $250 USD (USD account) |
| Required documents | Government-issued ID, proof of address, possibly a bank statement |
| Practical tip | Ensure your name matches exactly on the documents and bank/payment method |
Deposits and withdrawals on AvaTrade
AvaTrade offers a variety of options for funding your account and withdrawing profits. For Canadian clients, deposits are accepted via credit/debit cards, bank wire transfers, and select e-wallets. Funds can be deposited in CAD or USD, with minimum deposit thresholds tied to account currency. Credit/debit card deposits are typically instant, while bank wires can take 1–3 business days. Withdrawals are typically processed via bank wire, reflecting the deposit method and the client’s verified account details—processing times range from 1 to 3 business days once the withdrawal is approved. AvaTrade does not charge fees for deposits or withdrawals, but external bank or intermediary charges may apply. As AvaTrade is strictly a CFD/Forex and crypto CFD broker, there is no integrated wallet or direct fiat-to-crypto conversion; all trading is performed via leveraged CFD instruments.
Good to know
Always double-check your withdrawal method and account currency to minimize banking fees and delays. Ensure all banking details are up to date before requesting a payout.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | CAD, USD | $300 CAD | Instant | None from AvaTrade; bank may charge |
| Bank transfer (wire) | CAD, USD | $300 CAD | 1–3 business days | None from AvaTrade; bank/intermediary fees possible |
| E-wallets | USD (at AvaTrade’s discretion) | $300 USD | Few hours–1 business day | None from AvaTrade |
| Stablecoins or cryptos | Not supported | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Not applicable | – | – | – |
Account Types
AvaTrade is a globally recognized CFD/Forex broker operating in Canada under IIROC regulation through Friedberg Direct. It focuses on leveraged trading of CFDs on forex, stocks, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies, but does not offer direct asset ownership or pure crypto services such as staking or cold storage. AvaTrade provides straightforward account choices for both beginner and experienced traders, including a demo for practice and a standard live account for real trading. Certain account types common at some brokers (Raw ECN, Islamic, Professional, cold storage, staking/earn) are not available through AvaTrade in Canada, while all trading is facilitated through major platforms such as MT4, MT5, and the proprietary AvaTradeGO app.
| Account Type | Available | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Practice trading with $100,000 virtual funds, 21-day access (extendable) |
| Standard account | ✅ | Minimum deposit: $300 CAD; trade CFDs on forex, stocks, indices, crypto; all main platforms |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; pricing/spread model is standard retail (not ECN/direct-market) |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not available explicitly for Canadian users |
| Professional account | ❌ | Not available; all Canadian clients onboarded as retail per IIROC rules |
| CFD account | ✅ | Core offering—trade leveraged CFDs on a wide range of assets |
| Classic securities account | ❌ | Not available; no direct stock or ETF ownership—CFDs only |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not offered; no staking, yield, or crypto lending |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not offered; AvaTrade does not provide crypto custody or wallets |
| Tax-advantaged account | ❌ | Not available; all accounts are standard trading accounts |
| Accepted base currencies | ✅ | CAD and USD (account currency set at opening) |
Trip
Compare the account type and associated trading platform for your style—if you’re new to CFDs or platforms like MT4/MT5, use the demo account first to get comfortable before committing funds to a live standard account.
AvaTrade vs. Competitors
How does AvaTrade compare to competitors?
| Feature | AvaTrade | Revolut | Trade Republic | Swissquote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 | €1 (not in CA) | CHF 1,000 (not in CA) | |
| Number of instruments | 4,000+ US stocks & 100+ crypto (CA: limited) | 10,000+ (not in CA) | 3,000+ (not in CA) | |
| Spreads (examples) | Currency exchange ~0.5%+ markup, limited investing | €1/trade (no spread FX/CFDs) | EUR/USD from 1.1 pips, commissions on stocks/ETFs | |
| Trading platforms | Revolut App (Mobile/Web), Revolut X | Mobile App, Web Platform | Advanced Trader, MT4, MT5, eTrading | |
| Regulation | E-money institution (Europe), not a Canadian broker | BaFin/ECB (not in CA) | FINMA, FCA (not in CA) | |
| Demo account | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Copy trading | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Read the review | Read the review Revolut | Read the review Trade Republic | Read the review Swissquote |
Customer reviews
AvaTrade has a Trustpilot rating of 4.0 out of 5, based on over 10,433 reviews.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Easy account opening and straightforward onboarding process
- Responsive and helpful customer support
- Wide range of forex, CFD, and crypto instruments
- Variety of platforms including MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, AvaTradeGO, and AvaOptions
- Access to educational resources and copy trading features
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Spreads can widen during periods of high market volatility
- Inactivity fees apply after several months without trading
- Some delays reported for withdrawal processing times
- Platform interface may feel complex for new traders
- Limited direct ownership options (CFDs only, no spot crypto or stocks)
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
_J.R. – 16/04/2025 : “Great platform, easy to use and customer service is very responsive.”_ _A.W. – 05/03/2025 : “Withdrawal process was smooth, but spreads can be a bit high during volatile times.”_ _L.M. – 24/02/2025 : “I appreciate the educational resources, but would like to see more crypto options.”_
FAQ
Is AvaTrade regulated in CA?
Yes, AvaTrade operates in Canada through Friedberg Direct, which is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). This ensures regulation and investor protection in accordance with Canadian financial industry standards.
What is the minimum deposit on AvaTrade?
The minimum deposit to open a standard account with AvaTrade is $300 CAD for Canadian users or $250 USD for US-dollar accounts. This entry level is designed to be accessible for a broad range of new traders.
Does AvaTrade offer a welcome bonus?
AvaTrade does not advertise a standard welcome bonus or deposit bonus for Canadian residents. Promotional offers may occasionally be available, but they are not a regular feature due to Canadian regulatory restrictions.
How does leverage work on AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers leverage based on IIROC rules for Canadian residents. For forex, the maximum leverage is up to 1:50. Indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies are offered with lower leverage caps, generally up to 1:20 or 1:2, depending on the asset class.
How does AvaTrade make money?
AvaTrade makes money primarily from spreads, which are the difference between the buy and sell price of each asset. There are no commissions on CFD trades, but there are fees for inactivity, potential currency conversion, and embedded costs in spreads for crypto and stocks.
Who is behind AvaTrade?
AvaTrade is a global broker founded in 2006 and is managed internationally by AVA Trade EU Ltd as well as regional partners such as Friedberg Direct for Canadian operations. It is recognized as a prominent player in the global CFD and forex trading sphere.
When was AvaTrade launched?
AvaTrade was established in 2006. Since then, it has expanded its services globally, including in Canada, where it operates in partnership with Friedberg Direct for regulatory compliance.
Does AvaTrade offer copy trading or social trading?
Yes, AvaTrade provides access to copy trading services through platforms like AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade. These allow clients to follow and automatically replicate the trades of experienced traders directly from their account.
How can I contact AvaTrade’s customer service?
AvaTrade offers customer service by phone at +1-877-846-2240 or 1-416-350-2888, via an online form, live chat, and their comprehensive help centre. Support is available in both English and French, Monday through Friday, 24 hours a day.
Does AvaTrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
AvaTrade occasionally runs promotions or referral programs, but these are subject to Canadian regulatory rules and may not always be available. For the most current offers, it's best to consult the official AvaTrade website or their support team.
Is AvaTrade regulated in CA?
Yes, AvaTrade operates in Canada through Friedberg Direct, which is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). This ensures regulation and investor protection in accordance with Canadian financial industry standards.
What is the minimum deposit on AvaTrade?
The minimum deposit to open a standard account with AvaTrade is $300 CAD for Canadian users or $250 USD for US-dollar accounts. This entry level is designed to be accessible for a broad range of new traders.
Does AvaTrade offer a welcome bonus?
AvaTrade does not advertise a standard welcome bonus or deposit bonus for Canadian residents. Promotional offers may occasionally be available, but they are not a regular feature due to Canadian regulatory restrictions.
How does leverage work on AvaTrade?
AvaTrade offers leverage based on IIROC rules for Canadian residents. For forex, the maximum leverage is up to 1:50. Indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies are offered with lower leverage caps, generally up to 1:20 or 1:2, depending on the asset class.
How does AvaTrade make money?
AvaTrade makes money primarily from spreads, which are the difference between the buy and sell price of each asset. There are no commissions on CFD trades, but there are fees for inactivity, potential currency conversion, and embedded costs in spreads for crypto and stocks.
Who is behind AvaTrade?
AvaTrade is a global broker founded in 2006 and is managed internationally by AVA Trade EU Ltd as well as regional partners such as Friedberg Direct for Canadian operations. It is recognized as a prominent player in the global CFD and forex trading sphere.
When was AvaTrade launched?
AvaTrade was established in 2006. Since then, it has expanded its services globally, including in Canada, where it operates in partnership with Friedberg Direct for regulatory compliance.
Does AvaTrade offer copy trading or social trading?
Yes, AvaTrade provides access to copy trading services through platforms like AvaSocial, DupliTrade, and ZuluTrade. These allow clients to follow and automatically replicate the trades of experienced traders directly from their account.
How can I contact AvaTrade’s customer service?
AvaTrade offers customer service by phone at +1-877-846-2240 or 1-416-350-2888, via an online form, live chat, and their comprehensive help centre. Support is available in both English and French, Monday through Friday, 24 hours a day.
Does AvaTrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
AvaTrade occasionally runs promotions or referral programs, but these are subject to Canadian regulatory rules and may not always be available. For the most current offers, it's best to consult the official AvaTrade website or their support team.
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