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BMO Investorline

My Review of BMO Investorline in Canada (July 2025)

BMO InvestorLine
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My opinion on BMO Investorline

Last update: July 2, 2025
BMO InvestorlineBMO Investorline
3.9
hellosafe-logoScore
P. Laurore
P. LauroreFinance expert

BMO InvestorLine is a trusted, IIROC-regulated online broker backed by the Bank of Montreal, serving Canadian investors since 1988.
With no minimum deposit, a clear $9.95 flat commission on most trades, and access to Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and fixed income products, it stands out for its reliability and transparent pricing—though it lags behind some competitors on product diversity and trading tools.
The platform's focus on self-directed investing, supported by robust client protection through CIPF and a suite of user-friendly online and mobile platforms, makes it a top choice for Canadians seeking a traditional, secure, and straightforward trading experience.
BMO InvestorLine is best suited for those who prioritize strong regulation, established banking pedigree, and a simplified fee model over access to forex, CFD, or crypto trading.
(No Trustpilot score available)
In my experience, this broker is best suited to the following trader profiles:

➡️ Beginners will benefit from BMO InvestorLine’s intuitive platform, straightforward fee structure, no minimum deposit, and strong support, making it easy for new investors to get started with Canadian or U.S. stocks and ETFs.
➡️ Intermediate traders who want diversified long-term portfolios and access to advanced order types, margin accounts, and a broad range of account types—including registered and non-registered accounts—will find this broker well suited to their needs.
➡️ Advanced or high net-worth investors focused on traditional assets, seeking reliability, client protection, and dedicated support within Canada’s regulatory framework, will appreciate BMO InvestorLine’s integration with BMO’s full banking services and comprehensive fixed income offerings.

  • IIROC-regulated and backed by the Bank of Montreal, ensuring strong investor protection
  • No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
  • Flat, transparent $9.95 commission per stock or ETF trade, with no hidden spreads
  • Access to a broad selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and physical precious metals
  • Supports a range of registered (RRSP, TFSA, etc.) and non-registered account types
  • Margin accounts available with competitive leverage on eligible securities
  • User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with real-time quotes and portfolio tools
  • Commission-free trading on select Canadian ETFs
  • Multiple secure funding and withdrawal options with no fees for electronic transfers
  • Responsive Canadian client support via phone, email, and secure messaging
  • No access to forex, CFD, or cryptocurrency trading
  • Does not support advanced trading features such as copy trading, algorithmic trading, or public demo accounts
  • Annual account administration fee applies unless minimum balance or trading activity is maintained
  • No Islamic (swap-free) accounts or specific crypto-related services (wallet, staking, lending)
BMO InvestorlineBMO Investorline
3.9
hellosafe-logoScore
  • IIROC-regulated and backed by the Bank of Montreal, ensuring strong investor protection
  • No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
  • Flat, transparent $9.95 commission per stock or ETF trade, with no hidden spreads
  • Access to a broad selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and physical precious metals
  • Supports a range of registered (RRSP, TFSA, etc.) and non-registered account types
  • Margin accounts available with competitive leverage on eligible securities
  • User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with real-time quotes and portfolio tools
  • Commission-free trading on select Canadian ETFs
  • Multiple secure funding and withdrawal options with no fees for electronic transfers
  • Responsive Canadian client support via phone, email, and secure messaging

My opinion on BMO Investorline

Last update: July 2, 2025
P. Laurore
P. LauroreFinance expert
  • IIROC-regulated and backed by the Bank of Montreal, ensuring strong investor protection
  • No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
  • Flat, transparent $9.95 commission per stock or ETF trade, with no hidden spreads
  • Access to a broad selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and physical precious metals
  • Supports a range of registered (RRSP, TFSA, etc.) and non-registered account types
  • Margin accounts available with competitive leverage on eligible securities
  • User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with real-time quotes and portfolio tools
  • Commission-free trading on select Canadian ETFs
  • Multiple secure funding and withdrawal options with no fees for electronic transfers
  • Responsive Canadian client support via phone, email, and secure messaging
  • No access to forex, CFD, or cryptocurrency trading
  • Does not support advanced trading features such as copy trading, algorithmic trading, or public demo accounts
  • Annual account administration fee applies unless minimum balance or trading activity is maintained
  • No Islamic (swap-free) accounts or specific crypto-related services (wallet, staking, lending)
BMO InvestorlineBMO Investorline
3.9
hellosafe-logoScore
  • IIROC-regulated and backed by the Bank of Montreal, ensuring strong investor protection
  • No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
  • Flat, transparent $9.95 commission per stock or ETF trade, with no hidden spreads
  • Access to a broad selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and physical precious metals
  • Supports a range of registered (RRSP, TFSA, etc.) and non-registered account types
  • Margin accounts available with competitive leverage on eligible securities
  • User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with real-time quotes and portfolio tools
  • Commission-free trading on select Canadian ETFs
  • Multiple secure funding and withdrawal options with no fees for electronic transfers
  • Responsive Canadian client support via phone, email, and secure messaging
BMO InvestorLine is a trusted, IIROC-regulated online broker backed by the Bank of Montreal, serving Canadian investors since 1988.
With no minimum deposit, a clear $9.95 flat commission on most trades, and access to Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and fixed income products, it stands out for its reliability and transparent pricing—though it lags behind some competitors on product diversity and trading tools.
The platform's focus on self-directed investing, supported by robust client protection through CIPF and a suite of user-friendly online and mobile platforms, makes it a top choice for Canadians seeking a traditional, secure, and straightforward trading experience.
BMO InvestorLine is best suited for those who prioritize strong regulation, established banking pedigree, and a simplified fee model over access to forex, CFD, or crypto trading.
(No Trustpilot score available)
In my experience, this broker is best suited to the following trader profiles:

➡️ Beginners will benefit from BMO InvestorLine’s intuitive platform, straightforward fee structure, no minimum deposit, and strong support, making it easy for new investors to get started with Canadian or U.S. stocks and ETFs.
➡️ Intermediate traders who want diversified long-term portfolios and access to advanced order types, margin accounts, and a broad range of account types—including registered and non-registered accounts—will find this broker well suited to their needs.
➡️ Advanced or high net-worth investors focused on traditional assets, seeking reliability, client protection, and dedicated support within Canada’s regulatory framework, will appreciate BMO InvestorLine’s integration with BMO’s full banking services and comprehensive fixed income offerings.
icon

Why trust Hellosafe?

I’ve spent time testing BMO Investorline myself, opening an account as a Canadian resident and actually placing trades through both the web and mobile platforms. I examined everything from the account setup, fees, and commission structure, to the usability of their research tools and the speed of order executions. I reached out to customer support to see how accessible and helpful they are in real-world scenarios.

My opinion is shaped by hands-on experience, not just company claims or advertisements. I compared BMO Investorline to other regulated Canadian brokers and also looked at how it stacks up against popular global platforms focused on crypto or CFDs. While BMO Investorline isn’t designed for active crypto or FX trading, its strengths in traditional stocks, ETFs, and registered accounts really stand out for long-term Canadian investors.

I share this perspective so you get an honest, experience-driven view of whether BMO Investorline is reliable and suitable for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor. My goal is to highlight both the pros and the limitations in a way that’s clear, direct, and grounded in genuine use.

BMO Investorline at a Glance

FonctionnalitéDétail
💰 Dépôt minimumNo minimum deposit required
🛡️ RégulationIIROC regulated, CIPF member
💎 Licence cryptoNot available
📄 Enregistrement FSMANot registered with FSMA
📈 Actifs disponiblesCanadian/U.S. stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, physical gold/silver programs
📊 Plateformes de tradingWeb platform, mobile app (iOS/Android)
🛠️ Outils de tradingReal-time quotes, portfolio analysis, watchlists, research tools, alerts, document vault
🧪 Compte démoNot available
☪️ Compte islamiqueNot available
📝 Ordres clésMarket, limit, stop, stop-limit, conditional, good-till-cancelled, short sell (where permitted)
⚡ Effet de levierMargin up to 1.43:1 (70% for eligible equities, varies by asset and IIROC rules)
💸 Frais$9.95/trade (stocks & ETFs), admin fee $25/quarter (waived if minimums met), no ETF fee (select funds), $10 wire fee
📞 Support clientPhone, secure message, email; Mon–Fri 8am–6pm ET
🌟 Avis TrustpilotNot officially listed
Tableau récapitulatif des fonctionnalités
💰 Dépôt minimum
Détail
No minimum deposit required
🛡️ Régulation
Détail
IIROC regulated, CIPF member
💎 Licence crypto
Détail
Not available
📄 Enregistrement FSMA
Détail
Not registered with FSMA
📈 Actifs disponibles
Détail
Canadian/U.S. stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, physical gold/silver programs
📊 Plateformes de trading
Détail
Web platform, mobile app (iOS/Android)
🛠️ Outils de trading
Détail
Real-time quotes, portfolio analysis, watchlists, research tools, alerts, document vault
🧪 Compte démo
Détail
Not available
☪️ Compte islamique
Détail
Not available
📝 Ordres clés
Détail
Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, conditional, good-till-cancelled, short sell (where permitted)
⚡ Effet de levier
Détail
Margin up to 1.43:1 (70% for eligible equities, varies by asset and IIROC rules)
💸 Frais
Détail
$9.95/trade (stocks & ETFs), admin fee $25/quarter (waived if minimums met), no ETF fee (select funds), $10 wire fee
📞 Support client
Détail
Phone, secure message, email; Mon–Fri 8am–6pm ET
🌟 Avis Trustpilot
Détail
Not officially listed
Tableau récapitulatif des fonctionnalités

Security & Regulation

BMO Investorline is a highly secure and trustworthy broker, benefitting from the oversight of IIROC and the financial strength of its parent, Bank of Montreal. I place strong confidence in the platform’s regulatory environment and adherence to Canadian investor protection rules, including CIPF membership, which ensures robust client asset protection up to $1 million per account.

Fund security is further enhanced by clear segregation of client assets and the backing of one of Canada’s top banks. The broker offers comprehensive risk controls for equity and ETF trading—such as stop and limit orders, margin management for eligible accounts, and reliable two-factor authentication—though it does not include advanced tools like negative balance protection or trading in leveraged derivatives.

BMO Investorline’s track record is among the best in Canada, having served a large retail and institutional base for decades. While the platform is not rated on Trustpilot, its reputation is well established among Canadian investors and industry observers. For those prioritizing safety, transparency, and regulatory pedigree—especially for stocks, ETFs, and classic investment vehicles—BMO Investorline is a particularly robust choice.

IndicatorDescriptionEvaluation
Regulatory complianceIIROC regulated, CIPF member, wholly owned by Bank of Montreal – no direct crypto or CFD license5/5
Fund securitySegregation of client assets, CIPF cover, assets held with BMO, no CFD/forex/crypto exposure5/5
Risk management toolsStop loss/limit orders, margin for eligible accounts, 2FA; no negative balance protection or leveraged CFDs4/5
Notoriety and coverageDecades of operation, strong reputation in Canada, no major public controversies, not rated on Trustpilot4/5
Regulatory compliance
Description
IIROC regulated, CIPF member, wholly owned by Bank of Montreal – no direct crypto or CFD license
Evaluation
5/5
Fund security
Description
Segregation of client assets, CIPF cover, assets held with BMO, no CFD/forex/crypto exposure
Evaluation
5/5
Risk management tools
Description
Stop loss/limit orders, margin for eligible accounts, 2FA; no negative balance protection or leveraged CFDs
Evaluation
4/5
Notoriety and coverage
Description
Decades of operation, strong reputation in Canada, no major public controversies, not rated on Trustpilot
Evaluation
4/5

Fees, Spreads & Commissions

BMO Investorline’s pricing is a classic example of the Canadian bank-broker model: simple, predictable, and secure, but not the lowest-cost option for frequent traders. The standard commission of $9.95 per online trade on stocks and ETFs is transparent, but higher than the many new discount or commission-free options now appearing in the marketplace. For investors who make a few large trades or hold positions for the long term, this flat fee remains straightforward and manageable. For high-frequency or smaller-portfolio traders, however, these costs can add up quickly.

There are no hidden spreads, as all orders are routed to public exchanges at live market quotes with transparent execution. However, investors looking to trade in foreign currencies should be mindful of the 1.5% currency conversion fee—while typical among Canadian banks, it can erode returns for cross-border investing if not monitored. The $25/quarter maintenance fee is automatically waived given reasonable activity or balance, but it’s a key consideration for less active or low-balance accounts.

BMO Investorline does not offer CFDs, forex, or direct cryptocurrency trading. Exposure to alternative assets is instead enabled via select ETFs and mutual funds. For precious metals, commission structures on physical gold and silver are clearly published but have a relatively high minimum per transaction. Account setup, deposit, and withdrawals (by EFT) are generally free, although wire transfers incur a nominal fixed charge.

What are the account-related fees?

Fee TypeConditions at BMO InvestorlineMarket Average
Opening fee$0$0–$50
Maintenance fee$0 (with balance/activity); $25/quarter if not$0–$120/year
Withdrawal fee$0 (EFT), $10 (wire transfer)$0–$25
Inactivity fee$0 (with balance/activity); part of maintenance fee$0–$50/year
Currency conversion fee1.5% above spot rate0.5%–2.0%
Comparison of fees at BMO Investorline versus the market average.
Opening fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0
Market Average
$0–$50
Maintenance fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0 (with balance/activity); $25/quarter if not
Market Average
$0–$120/year
Withdrawal fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0 (EFT), $10 (wire transfer)
Market Average
$0–$25
Inactivity fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0 (with balance/activity); part of maintenance fee
Market Average
$0–$50/year
Currency conversion fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
1.5% above spot rate
Market Average
0.5%–2.0%
Comparison of fees at BMO Investorline versus the market average.
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Expert advice

To reduce costs, avoid unnecessary currency conversions where possible, and ensure your balance or trading activity is above the maintenance-fee threshold. Use commission-free ETF options for passive investing, and plan larger transactions to minimize per-trade commission impact.

What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?

BMO Investorline applies a simple $9.95 commission on stock and ETF trades, with no hidden markup to the spread and no custody fee. Select Canadian ETFs are commission-free, allowing for fee-efficient passive investing, but only on a limited list. There are no overnight or maintenance costs on cash assets, and UK stamp duty only applies if buying UK shares—otherwise not charged.

Fee TypeConditions at BMO InvestorlineMarket Average
Commission$9.95 per trade (stock/ETF)$0–$9.99 per trade
Spread fee$0 (direct to market)$0
Overnight fee$0 (cash positions only)$0
Custody fee$0$0–$50/year
UK stamp duty tax0.5% (UK stocks only)0.5% (UK stocks, if applicable)
BMO Investorline Fees vs. Market Average
Commission
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$9.95 per trade (stock/ETF)
Market Average
$0–$9.99 per trade
Spread fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0 (direct to market)
Market Average
$0
Overnight fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0 (cash positions only)
Market Average
$0
Custody fee
Conditions at BMO Investorline
$0
Market Average
$0–$50/year
UK stamp duty tax
Conditions at BMO Investorline
0.5% (UK stocks only)
Market Average
0.5% (UK stocks, if applicable)
BMO Investorline Fees vs. Market Average

What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?

Direct cryptocurrency trading is not supported on BMO Investorline. Any exposure to crypto is only possible through specialized ETFs or funds, where the cost is defined by the ETF’s management fee structure, not by BMO Investorline. There are no crypto custody, overnight, or transfer fees at the account level.

Fee TypeConditions at BMO InvestorlineMarket Average (crypto/CFD brokers)
Buy/sell feesNot available (via ETF only)0.1%–2.0%
Spread feesNot available0.1%–1.0%
Overnight feesNot applicable0.02%–0.15% per night (CFDs)
Custody feesNot available$0–$5/month
Transfer feesNot available$0–$25
BMO Investorline vs. Market Average Crypto Broker Fees
Buy/sell fees
Conditions at BMO Investorline
Not available (via ETF only)
Market Average (crypto/CFD brokers)
0.1%–2.0%
Spread fees
Conditions at BMO Investorline
Not available
Market Average (crypto/CFD brokers)
0.1%–1.0%
Overnight fees
Conditions at BMO Investorline
Not applicable
Market Average (crypto/CFD brokers)
0.02%–0.15% per night (CFDs)
Custody fees
Conditions at BMO Investorline
Not available
Market Average (crypto/CFD brokers)
$0–$5/month
Transfer fees
Conditions at BMO Investorline
Not available
Market Average (crypto/CFD brokers)
$0–$25
BMO Investorline vs. Market Average Crypto Broker Fees

What are the fees on CFDs?

BMO Investorline does not offer CFDs or leveraged synthetic trading in any asset class. All trading is settled directly on listed stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds only.

Underlying AssetMaximum LeverageSpread at BMO InvestorlineOvernight FeeMarket Average (CFD brokers)
CFD StocksNot availableN/AN/A$0.02–$0.10/share
Gold (XAU/USD)Not availableN/AN/A$0.30–$0.55/oz
Silver (XAG/USD)Not availableN/AN/A$0.02–$0.05/oz
Oil (WTI)Not availableN/AN/A$0.03–$0.08
EUR/USDNot availableN/AN/A0.6–1.5 pips
EUR/GBPNot availableN/AN/A0.8–2.0 pips
USD/JPYNot availableN/AN/A0.7–1.8 pips
GBP/USDNot availableN/AN/A0.9–2.1 pips
BEL 20 (BEL20)Not availableN/AN/A1–2 index points
BTC/USD (crypto CFD)Not availableN/AN/A0.20%–1.00%
Comparison of BMO Investorline and Market Average for CFD Trading
CFD Stocks
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
$0.02–$0.10/share
Gold (XAU/USD)
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
$0.30–$0.55/oz
Silver (XAG/USD)
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
$0.02–$0.05/oz
Oil (WTI)
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
$0.03–$0.08
EUR/USD
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
0.6–1.5 pips
EUR/GBP
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
0.8–2.0 pips
USD/JPY
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
0.7–1.8 pips
GBP/USD
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
0.9–2.1 pips
BEL 20 (BEL20)
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
1–2 index points
BTC/USD (crypto CFD)
Maximum Leverage
Not available
Spread at BMO Investorline
N/A
Overnight Fee
N/A
Market Average (CFD brokers)
0.20%–1.00%
Comparison of BMO Investorline and Market Average for CFD Trading

Assets & Markets

BMO Investorline offers a comprehensive, traditional selection of Canadian and U.S. investment products. I value the platform’s deep access to spot stocks and ETFs across North American exchanges, supported by a robust set of account types including registered (RRSP, TFSA, RESP) and margin accounts. This is well-suited to Canadian investors focusing on long-term portfolio growth, diversification, and tax-advantaged strategies, particularly those prioritizing household financial planning and security under Canadian regulation.

The core strength lies in the breadth of listed equities and ETFs as well as strong access to mutual funds, GICs, and a variety of Canadian and global bonds. The platform’s physical gold and silver buying programs, in addition to ETF-based commodity exposure, provide further avenues for asset allocation. Order types are well rounded for the average investor, and the mobile and web platforms facilitate efficient account management.

BMO Investorline’s offering is limited for users seeking advanced or alternative markets. There is no access to spot forex, CFD products, or direct commodity, crypto, or derivatives trading. Crypto-assets are entirely unsupported—no direct or ETF-based crypto trading—and there are no facilities for staking, lending, stablecoins, or NFTs. Index and commodity trading are only possible indirectly through ETFs and mutual funds. Compared to specialized brokerage platforms, the absence of leveraged and speculative asset classes narrows the platform’s appeal for traders with more complex or high-frequency strategies.

I find the transparent pricing structure and straightforward integration with BMO’s broader banking infrastructure to be a positive for conservative or multi-account users. However, those looking to access global markets beyond North America, or modern digital assets, will need to combine BMO Investorline with other brokers for a more exhaustive product suite.

Asset ClassTypeNumber at BMO InvestorlineMarket AverageExample Assets
StocksSpot5,000+2,000–8,000+BMO, TD, AAPL, MSFT
ETFsSpot200+100–800XIU, VCN, QQQ, ZSP
CryptocurrenciesNot available010–150 (including ETFs)
CurrenciesNot available for trading040–80
CommoditiesPhysical & ETF/mutual fund20+ (indirect/physical)10–40BMO Gold Program, XGD, CGL
IndicesVia ETF/mutual fund only20+10–40VFV (S&P 500 ETF), XIU (TSX 60 ETF)
BondsSpot50+30–60Government of Canada Bonds, BMO 5yr Corp
StablecoinsNot available03–10
NFTsNot available03–30 (crypto brokers)
Other derivativesNot available010–80
Stocks
Type
Spot
Number at BMO Investorline
5,000+
Market Average
2,000–8,000+
Example Assets
BMO, TD, AAPL, MSFT
ETFs
Type
Spot
Number at BMO Investorline
200+
Market Average
100–800
Example Assets
XIU, VCN, QQQ, ZSP
Cryptocurrencies
Type
Not available
Number at BMO Investorline
0
Market Average
10–150 (including ETFs)
Example Assets
Currencies
Type
Not available for trading
Number at BMO Investorline
0
Market Average
40–80
Example Assets
Commodities
Type
Physical & ETF/mutual fund
Number at BMO Investorline
20+ (indirect/physical)
Market Average
10–40
Example Assets
BMO Gold Program, XGD, CGL
Indices
Type
Via ETF/mutual fund only
Number at BMO Investorline
20+
Market Average
10–40
Example Assets
VFV (S&P 500 ETF), XIU (TSX 60 ETF)
Bonds
Type
Spot
Number at BMO Investorline
50+
Market Average
30–60
Example Assets
Government of Canada Bonds, BMO 5yr Corp
Stablecoins
Type
Not available
Number at BMO Investorline
0
Market Average
3–10
Example Assets
NFTs
Type
Not available
Number at BMO Investorline
0
Market Average
3–30 (crypto brokers)
Example Assets
Other derivatives
Type
Not available
Number at BMO Investorline
0
Market Average
10–80
Example Assets

Trading Tools & Apps

BMO Investorline focuses on delivering a straightforward digital experience through its proprietary web platform and dedicated mobile app. The platform structure is designed for ease of use, making everyday account management and order placement accessible for self-directed investors. Navigation is intuitive, with clear menu systems and rapid switching between portfolio overviews, research, and trade execution screens. This design caters especially well to long-term investors and those who prioritize simplicity.

Order entry supports common order types, including market, limit, stop, stop-limit, day, GTC (good-till-cancelled), and conditional orders. Margin account holders can access additional sell-short capabilities on eligible securities. While this coverage meets the majority of needs for spot equity, ETF, and fixed income trading, the absence of more complex options—such as trailing stops, OCO (One Cancels Other), or bracket orders—may limit advanced strategy execution for active traders.

Charting capabilities provide all basic technical indicators and support interactive visual analysis directly in the platform. Key tools, such as trend lines, moving averages, and volume overlays, are available. However, the charting engine does not approach the depth of customization or real-time analytics available in specialist software like MetaTrader or TradingView. There is no direct integration with third-party charting platforms, and no scripting or algorithmic trading capabilities.

Automation and social trading options are not offered. BMO Investorline does not provide copy trading, bot or API access, nor crypto wallet functionality. Staking and direct crypto or commodity trading are also absent—though physical gold and silver can be bought through specific BMO programs, not as trading assets.

The combination of a clear UX, reliable execution, and direct access to major North American exchanges makes the platform well-suited for traditional investors seeking a transparent, Canadian-regulated broker. However, algorithmic, high-frequency, and multi-asset traders may find the environment too limiting for their requirements.

FeatureVerified Details
Mobile appProprietary iOS/Android app; no MetaTrader/TradingView/crypto wallet support
UsabilityFluid interface, clean navigation for web and mobile; tailored to self-directed long-term investors
Compatible softwareWeb and mobile (proprietary); no API, no MetaTrader, no TradingView integration
Order typesMarket, limit, stop, stop-limit, day, GTC, conditional; no trailing stop, OCO, or bracket orders
Charting and technical analysisBuilt-in basic indicators and drawing tools; no advanced scripting or external software integration
Auto trading / Automated strategiesNot available; no support for bots or copy trading
Algorithmic tradingNot available; no custom scripting or strategy coding
Negative balance protectionStandard Canadian margin rules; no explicit negative balance guarantee
Trading signalsIn-platform research and third-party analyst data; no signals from TradingView or external tools
Asset search and filtersFunctional for spot equities, ETFs, bonds; not for crypto/CFD/forex
Spot stock purchaseYes (broad access to North American listed stocks, ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds)
Staking and earnNot available
Feature and Verified Details
Mobile app
Verified Details
Proprietary iOS/Android app; no MetaTrader/TradingView/crypto wallet support
Usability
Verified Details
Fluid interface, clean navigation for web and mobile; tailored to self-directed long-term investors
Compatible software
Verified Details
Web and mobile (proprietary); no API, no MetaTrader, no TradingView integration
Order types
Verified Details
Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, day, GTC, conditional; no trailing stop, OCO, or bracket orders
Charting and technical analysis
Verified Details
Built-in basic indicators and drawing tools; no advanced scripting or external software integration
Auto trading / Automated strategies
Verified Details
Not available; no support for bots or copy trading
Algorithmic trading
Verified Details
Not available; no custom scripting or strategy coding
Negative balance protection
Verified Details
Standard Canadian margin rules; no explicit negative balance guarantee
Trading signals
Verified Details
In-platform research and third-party analyst data; no signals from TradingView or external tools
Asset search and filters
Verified Details
Functional for spot equities, ETFs, bonds; not for crypto/CFD/forex
Spot stock purchase
Verified Details
Yes (broad access to North American listed stocks, ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds)
Staking and earn
Verified Details
Not available
Feature and Verified Details
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Tip

Take advantage of BMO Investorline’s built-in alerts and watchlist features to monitor changes in your investments or flagged securities. For deeper technical analysis, create model portfolios or run strategies externally in charting tools like TradingView, then use BMO Investorline to execute and track your actual trades for best-in-class Canadian security and reporting.

Account Opening and Deposits

Account opening

Opening an account with BMO Investorline begins with an online application, where you select your desired account type (self-directed, registered, non-registered, or margin) and provide personal details. The process requires uploading or presenting a government-issued photo ID, Social Insurance Number (SIN), and your employment and financial information to satisfy Canadian KYC standards. For certain account types (like registered or business accounts), expect requests for additional documentation.

Once you have submitted your application and the required documents, BMO Investorline will review your information. Most standard accounts are validated within 1–3 business days, though this can vary depending on regulatory checks or if clarification of information is needed. You will receive a confirmation email when your account is approved and ready for funding.

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Good to know

Having your SIN, current ID, and a recent proof of address on hand streamlines the verification process. Peak periods or incomplete documentation can extend validation times, so double-check your application before submission.

ItemDetails
Opening procedureOnline application, select account type, upload KYC docs, regulatory screening
Validation time1–3 business days (may be longer for complex or corporate accounts)
Accepted deposit methodsEFT, bill payment, cheque, wire transfer
Minimum required depositNone for self-directed accounts
Required documentsGovernment-issued ID, SIN, proof of address, employment/financial info
Practical tipEnsure all information matches identification documents to avoid delays
Account Opening Process and Requirements
Opening procedure
Details
Online application, select account type, upload KYC docs, regulatory screening
Validation time
Details
1–3 business days (may be longer for complex or corporate accounts)
Accepted deposit methods
Details
EFT, bill payment, cheque, wire transfer
Minimum required deposit
Details
None for self-directed accounts
Required documents
Details
Government-issued ID, SIN, proof of address, employment/financial info
Practical tip
Details
Ensure all information matches identification documents to avoid delays
Account Opening Process and Requirements

Deposits and withdrawals on BMO Investorline

BMO Investorline supports deposits by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), bill payments from Canadian banks, cheque, or wire transfer. Funds sent via EFT or bill payment typically take 1–3 business days to reflect, while wire transfers may post sooner but can incur a fee. There is no minimum required deposit for self-directed accounts, and most deposit methods do not involve additional charges from BMO Investorline.

Withdrawals can be made through EFT directly to your linked Canadian bank account (free of charge), by wire transfer (a $10 fee applies), or by cheque. Most withdrawals are processed within 1–3 business days, though wire transfers can be same-day if initiated early. BMO Investorline does not support deposits, withdrawals, or wallets for cryptocurrencies or stablecoins. All funds must be transferred in Canadian or U.S. dollars; no e-wallet or card options are available.

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Good to know

Double-check linked bank account details to ensure smooth withdrawals. EFTs are generally free and efficient for transfers within Canada. Consider potential bank processing times if you need quick access to funds.

Payment methodAccepted currenciesMinimum amountProcessing timePossible fees
Credit cardNot supported
Bank transfer (EFT)CAD, USDNone1–3 business daysFree
E-walletsNot supported
Stablecoins/cryptosNot supported
Other local optionsBill payment, cheque, wire transferNone1–3 business days (EFT/bill/cheque), same day (wire)$10 fee for wire transfer; free otherwise
A table detailing accepted payment methods, including currencies, minimum amounts, processing times, and potential fees.
Credit card
Accepted currencies
Not supported
Minimum amount
Processing time
Possible fees
Bank transfer (EFT)
Accepted currencies
CAD, USD
Minimum amount
None
Processing time
1–3 business days
Possible fees
Free
E-wallets
Accepted currencies
Not supported
Minimum amount
Processing time
Possible fees
Stablecoins/cryptos
Accepted currencies
Not supported
Minimum amount
Processing time
Possible fees
Other local options
Accepted currencies
Bill payment, cheque, wire transfer
Minimum amount
None
Processing time
1–3 business days (EFT/bill/cheque), same day (wire)
Possible fees
$10 fee for wire transfer; free otherwise
A table detailing accepted payment methods, including currencies, minimum amounts, processing times, and potential fees.

Account Types

BMO Investorline is a leading Canadian online broker, focused on self-directed investing in stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and GICs. It is not a CFD/forex broker or a crypto trading platform and does not provide leveraged, ECN, professional, or Islamic account types. Instead, its range covers standard, margin, and a comprehensive list of tax-advantaged accounts (such as RRSP, TFSA, and RESP), with accounts available in both CAD and USD. There are no demo or staking/cold storage options, as crypto services are not supported. The platform is designed for long-term investors and active self-directed traders who value stability, transparent fees, and Canadian regulatory oversight.

Account TypeAvailable (✅/❌)Main Features
Demo accountNot available; only real-money trading supported
Standard accountCash and margin self-directed brokerage accounts
Raw ECN accountNot available; no direct-to-market or interbank access
Islamic accountNot available; swap-free or Sharia options not provided
Professional accountNo specialized or institutional offerings
CFD accountCFDs, forex, commodities, and leveraged products not supported
Classic securities accountInvest in stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs
Staking/earn accountNot available; crypto and DeFi products not offered
Cold storage accountNot available; no crypto wallet or digital asset custody
Tax-advantaged accountWide options: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF and more
Accepted base currenciesCAD, USDBoth Canadian and US dollar accounts available
Available Account Types
Demo account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Not available; only real-money trading supported
Standard account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Cash and margin self-directed brokerage accounts
Raw ECN account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Not available; no direct-to-market or interbank access
Islamic account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Not available; swap-free or Sharia options not provided
Professional account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
No specialized or institutional offerings
CFD account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
CFDs, forex, commodities, and leveraged products not supported
Classic securities account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Invest in stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs
Staking/earn account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Not available; crypto and DeFi products not offered
Cold storage account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Not available; no crypto wallet or digital asset custody
Tax-advantaged account
Available (✅/❌)
Main Features
Wide options: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF and more
Accepted base currencies
Available (✅/❌)
CAD, USD
Main Features
Both Canadian and US dollar accounts available
Available Account Types
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Trader Tip

If you’re investing in US stocks or ETFs regularly, consider opening a USD-denominated account on BMO Investorline to minimize currency conversion charges over time. For tax efficiency, compare registered account types like TFSA or RRSP to match your long-term financial goals.

Customer reviews

BMO Investorline does not have an official Trustpilot rating or number of reviews as of the latest check. However, based on available feedback from Canadian investor forums and brokerage review sites, general sentiment reflects both reliability and a few areas for improvement.

Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :

  • Easy online account opening and variety of account options (including registered accounts)
  • Solid regulatory reputation and security as part of BMO
  • Access to a broad range of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and fixed income
  • Intuitive web and mobile platforms with strong research and analysis tools
  • Clear fee structure and no minimum deposit requirement

En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :

  • Flat trading commissions are on the higher side for occasional traders
  • No support for direct forex, crypto, or CFD trading
  • Limited advanced features for very active or professional traders
  • No demo account available for new users
  • Customer support can experience delays during busy periods

Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :

  • K.B. – 02/03/2024 : “Account opening was straightforward and I appreciate the detailed research tools, but the $9.95 commission per trade adds up quickly.”
  • J.R. – 14/05/2024 : “Good range of investment products for Canadian investors, but wish they offered a demo account for practice.”
  • S.M. – 27/06/2024 : “Reliable and secure platform overall, but service wait times can be long during market volatility.”

FAQ

Is BMO Investorline regulated in CA?

Yes, BMO Investorline is fully regulated in Canada. It operates as a division of BMO Financial Group and is overseen by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC). Client accounts are also protected by the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF).

What is the minimum deposit on BMO Investorline?

There is no minimum deposit required to open a Self-Directed account at BMO Investorline. This makes the platform accessible for new investors as well as more experienced traders who want to start with a small amount.

Does BMO Investorline offer a welcome bonus?

BMO Investorline generally does not offer a permanent welcome bonus or rewards to new clients. Occasionally, promotional offers may be available for new account openings, but these are limited and subject to specific terms.

How does leverage work on BMO Investorline?

Leverage is available through margin accounts at BMO Investorline, and it is regulated under IIROC standards. Eligible clients can borrow up to 70% against select Canadian equities, translating to a typical maximum leverage of 1.43:1, but this varies by security and client profile.

How does BMO Investorline make money?

BMO Investorline makes money primarily through trading commissions, administration and wire transfer fees, and currency conversion charges. The standard commission is $9.95 per trade for stocks and ETFs, with various other product-related fees for different asset classes and services.

Who is behind BMO Investorline?

BMO Investorline is part of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), one of Canada’s largest and most established financial institutions. This provides clients with stability, strong oversight, and access to a wide range of financial services supported by a reputable parent company.

When was BMO Investorline launched?

BMO Investorline was launched in 1988, making it one of the longest-running online brokerage platforms in Canada. Over time, it has expanded its features, technology, and investment offerings to serve a wide range of investors.

Does BMO Investorline offer copy trading or social trading?

BMO Investorline does not offer copy trading, social trading, or managed account features such as PAMM or MAM. The platform is designed for self-directed investors who wish to manage their own portfolios.

How can I contact BMO Investorline’s customer service?

Customer service is available via a dedicated phone line, secure online messaging, or email. Support hours are Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time. The service is based in Canada and offers assistance in both English and French.

Does BMO Investorline offer any promotions or referral programs?

Permanent referral or cashback programs are not a standard feature of BMO Investorline. However, promotional campaigns may be offered at certain times for account openings or transfers. Details on current promotions can be found on the BMO Investorline website or by contacting support.

Is BMO Investorline regulated in CA?

Yes, BMO Investorline is fully regulated in Canada. It operates as a division of BMO Financial Group and is overseen by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC). Client accounts are also protected by the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF).

What is the minimum deposit on BMO Investorline?

There is no minimum deposit required to open a Self-Directed account at BMO Investorline. This makes the platform accessible for new investors as well as more experienced traders who want to start with a small amount.

Does BMO Investorline offer a welcome bonus?

BMO Investorline generally does not offer a permanent welcome bonus or rewards to new clients. Occasionally, promotional offers may be available for new account openings, but these are limited and subject to specific terms.

How does leverage work on BMO Investorline?

Leverage is available through margin accounts at BMO Investorline, and it is regulated under IIROC standards. Eligible clients can borrow up to 70% against select Canadian equities, translating to a typical maximum leverage of 1.43:1, but this varies by security and client profile.

How does BMO Investorline make money?

BMO Investorline makes money primarily through trading commissions, administration and wire transfer fees, and currency conversion charges. The standard commission is $9.95 per trade for stocks and ETFs, with various other product-related fees for different asset classes and services.

Who is behind BMO Investorline?

BMO Investorline is part of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), one of Canada’s largest and most established financial institutions. This provides clients with stability, strong oversight, and access to a wide range of financial services supported by a reputable parent company.

When was BMO Investorline launched?

BMO Investorline was launched in 1988, making it one of the longest-running online brokerage platforms in Canada. Over time, it has expanded its features, technology, and investment offerings to serve a wide range of investors.

Does BMO Investorline offer copy trading or social trading?

BMO Investorline does not offer copy trading, social trading, or managed account features such as PAMM or MAM. The platform is designed for self-directed investors who wish to manage their own portfolios.

How can I contact BMO Investorline’s customer service?

Customer service is available via a dedicated phone line, secure online messaging, or email. Support hours are Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time. The service is based in Canada and offers assistance in both English and French.

Does BMO Investorline offer any promotions or referral programs?

Permanent referral or cashback programs are not a standard feature of BMO Investorline. However, promotional campaigns may be offered at certain times for account openings or transfers. Details on current promotions can be found on the BMO Investorline website or by contacting support.

P. Laurore
P. Laurore
Finance expert
HelloSafe
Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.

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