My opinion on BMO InvestorLine
BMO InvestorLine stands out as a well-established, bank-backed brokerage launched in 1991 and trusted by tens of thousands of Canadian investors, offering robust regulation (IIROC, CIPF coverage) and strong reliability.The platform is recognized for its integrated approach with BMO banking, comprehensive research tools, and a wide selection of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, options, and mutual funds—but does not provide forex, CFD, or crypto trading (beyond access to related ETFs).Fees are higher than many competitors, with a standard commission of $9.95 per trade and account charges for low balances, positioning BMO InvestorLine as a premium, full-service option rather than a low-cost choice.Relative to its main competitors, BMO InvestorLine is ideal for clients valuing security and integration with a major bank, though its trading costs are higher and its asset offering less diverse than more modern platforms like Questrade or Wealthsimple Trade.The platform enjoys a long-standing reputation in the Canadian market but currently holds a low Trustpilot score of 1.7/5 from 200+ reviews, with criticism focused on fees and mobile experience balanced by praise for stability and support.In my experience, BMO InvestorLine is best suited for the following trader profiles:
➡️ Conservative long-term investors: BMO InvestorLine is a strong match for individuals who prioritize capital preservation, stable growth, and bank-grade security. Its wide range of registered accounts (TFSA, RRSP, etc.) and traditional asset classes (stocks, ETFs, mutual funds) make it ideal for buy-and-hold strategies.
➡️ BMO banking clients seeking integration: Investors who already bank with BMO benefit from smooth account integration, centralized financial management, and cross-service convenience (e.g., transfers, portfolio consolidation), all under a familiar institutional umbrella.
➡️ Clients valuing full-service brokerage features: While BMO InvestorLine is not the cheapest option, it appeals to those seeking comprehensive research tools, reliable customer service, and the trust associated with a well-established Canadian bank, rather than the latest fintech features or niche assets.
- ✅Established Canadian broker backed by BMO, a major and reliable bank
- ✅Full IIROC regulation and CIPF investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts
- ✅Comprehensive selection of account types, including registered (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) and non-registered options
- ✅Wide range of stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, and GICs available for trading
- ✅Advanced web platform and mobile app with robust research tools and real-time quotes
- ✅Seamless integration with BMO bank accounts and ecosystem
- ✅No inactivity fee or deposit fee
- ✅Bilingual support (English and French), accessible by phone, secure messaging, and email
- ✅Fast and straightforward online account opening process
- ❌High trading commissions ($9.95 CAD per trade) compared to many competitors
- ❌Account fees apply to non-registered accounts with balances under $15,000 (unless waived conditions met)
- ❌No direct trading in forex, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies; only indirect crypto exposure via ETFs
- ❌No demo account for risk-free practice
- ❌No copy trading, social trading, or advanced algo/API features
- ❌Limited leverage (up to 2:1) and only available in margin accounts for stocks
- ❌No Islamic/swap-free accounts available
- ❌Mobile app and charting tools less advanced than some rivals
- ❌Currency conversion fees (1.5%-2%) add to cross-border trading costs
- ❌Low Trustpilot score (1.7/5) with user complaints around fees, platform features, and support wait times
Score- ✅Established Canadian broker backed by BMO, a major and reliable bank
- ✅Full IIROC regulation and CIPF investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts
- ✅Comprehensive selection of account types, including registered (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) and non-registered options
- ✅Wide range of stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, and GICs available for trading
- ✅Advanced web platform and mobile app with robust research tools and real-time quotes
- ✅Seamless integration with BMO bank accounts and ecosystem
- ✅No inactivity fee or deposit fee
- ✅Bilingual support (English and French), accessible by phone, secure messaging, and email
- ✅Fast and straightforward online account opening process
My opinion on BMO InvestorLine
- ✅Established Canadian broker backed by BMO, a major and reliable bank
- ✅Full IIROC regulation and CIPF investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts
- ✅Comprehensive selection of account types, including registered (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) and non-registered options
- ✅Wide range of stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, and GICs available for trading
- ✅Advanced web platform and mobile app with robust research tools and real-time quotes
- ✅Seamless integration with BMO bank accounts and ecosystem
- ✅No inactivity fee or deposit fee
- ✅Bilingual support (English and French), accessible by phone, secure messaging, and email
- ✅Fast and straightforward online account opening process
- ❌High trading commissions ($9.95 CAD per trade) compared to many competitors
- ❌Account fees apply to non-registered accounts with balances under $15,000 (unless waived conditions met)
- ❌No direct trading in forex, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies; only indirect crypto exposure via ETFs
- ❌No demo account for risk-free practice
- ❌No copy trading, social trading, or advanced algo/API features
- ❌Limited leverage (up to 2:1) and only available in margin accounts for stocks
- ❌No Islamic/swap-free accounts available
- ❌Mobile app and charting tools less advanced than some rivals
- ❌Currency conversion fees (1.5%-2%) add to cross-border trading costs
- ❌Low Trustpilot score (1.7/5) with user complaints around fees, platform features, and support wait times
Score- ✅Established Canadian broker backed by BMO, a major and reliable bank
- ✅Full IIROC regulation and CIPF investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts
- ✅Comprehensive selection of account types, including registered (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) and non-registered options
- ✅Wide range of stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, and GICs available for trading
- ✅Advanced web platform and mobile app with robust research tools and real-time quotes
- ✅Seamless integration with BMO bank accounts and ecosystem
- ✅No inactivity fee or deposit fee
- ✅Bilingual support (English and French), accessible by phone, secure messaging, and email
- ✅Fast and straightforward online account opening process
Why trust Hellosafe?
I spent time actually opening and using BMO InvestorLine, not just reading the marketing pages. I tested the web and mobile platforms to place trades, checked the research tools and charting features, and explored the process for deposits, withdrawals, and real account management. I made sure to contact customer support to gauge responsiveness and clarity, and I kept an eye on how clearly fees and commissions are laid out.
From my own experience, BMO InvestorLine stands out for offering security and strong research tools—especially appealing if you're already a BMO customer looking for seamless integration. I found the platform reliable and relatively easy for routine investing, but noticed that trading fees are higher than discount brokers, and there’s no demo account or advanced trading features for those who want to get more sophisticated with their strategies.
My opinions come from real usage and comparison with other regulated Canadian brokers, not just theory. This approach lets me give you honest pros and cons to help decide if BMO InvestorLine fits your needs as a beginner or experienced Canadian investor.
BMO InvestorLine at a Glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Dépôt minimum | No minimum deposit required for self-directed account; $10,000 CAD for adviceDirect |
| 🛡️ Régulation | IIROC member, CIPF protection, OSC oversight |
| 🪙 Licence crypto | Not available; only indirect crypto exposure via ETFs |
| 📄 Enregistrement FSMA | Not registered with FSMA (Belgium); Canadian regulation only |
| 📈 Actifs disponibles | 2,000+ (Canadian/US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, options, index funds) |
| 📊 Plateformes de trading | Web platform, Mobile app (iOS/Android) |
| 🛠 Outils de trading | Real-time quotes, advanced charting, research tools, watchlists, customizable dashboards, secure document vault |
| 🎮 Compte démo | Not available |
| ☪️ Compte islamique | Not available |
| 📝 Ordres clés | Market, limit, stop loss, stop limit, trailing stop, GTC, GTD, fill or kill, all or none |
| ⚖️ Effet de levier | Up to 2:1 for equities in margin accounts (none for registered accounts) |
| 💸 Frais | Stocks/ETFs: $9.95/trade; options: $9.95 + $1.25/contract; annual fee $25/quarter if balance < $15,000 (some waivers) |
| 📞 Support client | Phone, secure chat/message, Mon–Fri 8:00 am–8:00 pm ET, English & French support |
| 🌟 Avis Trustpilot | 1.7 / 5 (200+ reviews, as of July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
BMO InvestorLine stands out for its strong security framework, thanks to its IIROC regulation and full CIPF membership, offering up to $1 million in protection for client assets. The backing of BMO, one of Canada’s oldest and largest banks, provides an additional layer of institutional credibility and operational resilience, which I view as a critical advantage for long-term investors who value capital security above all.
All client assets are held in segregated accounts in line with Canadian requirements, and the platform itself employs bank-grade security protocols including robust authentication. While BMO InvestorLine does not support trading in CFDs, spot forex, or direct cryptocurrencies—a limiting factor for aggressive or ultra-diversified investors—the absence of these riskier instruments simplifies compliance and reduces exposure to adverse counterparty events.
Risk management features available through BMO InvestorLine cover essential needs: standard order types, stop loss functionality, and secure platform access. However, negative balance protection is not present, which is typical across Canadian banks for margin accounts but may be a consideration for highly leveraged traders. While user feedback sometimes mentions high fees and moderate platform innovation, the overall safety and reliability level remains particularly robust within the Canadian context.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC-regulated, CIPF member, OSC oversight; full large-bank backing | 5 / 5 |
| Fund security | Segregated accounts for all client assets, CIPF protection, no crypto or forex custody risk | 5 / 5 |
| Risk management tools | Secure access, stop loss, robust order types; no negative balance protection, limited to conventional needs | 4 / 5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Major Canadian bank, long track record; Trustpilot 1.7/5 but strong industry reputation | 4 / 5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
BMO InvestorLine charges fees that, in my opinion, reflect a traditional, premium Canadian brokerage experience but are less competitive for active traders or cost-conscious investors. The standard commission of $9.95 USD per trade for stocks and ETFs stands at the higher end of the Canadian brokerage market, especially compared to the zero-commission model offered by Wealthsimple Trade or the lower fee schedule seen at Questrade. While this may be justifiable for clients seeking seamless integration with other BMO banking products and robust research tools, it creates a clear cost disadvantage if you trade frequently or make smaller, regular transactions.
Account-related charges at BMO InvestorLine are generally visible and avoid hidden costs. There is no account opening or inactivity fee, but for non-registered accounts holding less than $11,000 USD (converted from $15,000 CAD), a $25 USD quarterly maintenance fee applies. Withdrawals via EFT or cheque are complimentary, though wire transfers incur a $10 USD fee—still reasonable compared to international competitors, but meaningful for users conducting frequent transfers.
Currency conversion is a notable area for potential cost creep. A 1.5%–2% markup above the spot rate applies to all trades or activities involving USD/CAD currency translation, which is a common practice among Canadian banks but could erode returns for users regularly trading US-listed securities or converting currencies.
BMO InvestorLine does not support direct crypto or CFD trading. Investors can access crypto only via ETFs, incurring the same $9.95 USD per-trade commission and the standard currency conversion charges. No spread markups, overnight, or custody fees are imposed beyond the ETF’s internal costs.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 (waived for balances $11,000+ USD, else $25/quarter) | $0–$100/year |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (EFT/cheque); $10 (wire transfer) | $0–$10 |
| Inactivity fee | $0 | $0–$50/year |
| Currency conversion fee | 1.5%–2% above spot | 1.5%–2.0% |
Expert advice | Trip
To minimize quarterly account fees at BMO InvestorLine, keep your non-registered account balance above $11,000 USD or consider consolidating accounts if possible. For frequent US trading, concentrate transactions to reduce the impact of currency conversion, or use “Norbert’s Gambit” where available to further cut currency costs.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
When trading stocks or ETFs at BMO InvestorLine, you will pay a $9.95 USD flat commission per trade. This rate is on the high side by current Canadian standards, especially compared to commission-free or low-fee broker alternatives. There are no additional spread markups (you receive market prices), no overnight charges, and no custody fees. UK stamp duty tax is not relevant for most BMO InvestorLine users, as UK equities are typically not supported or are routed through US depository receipts.
| Fee Type | Conditions at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $9.95/trade | $0–$9.95/trade |
| Spread fee | $0 (exchange-driven only) | $0 |
| Overnight fee | $0 | $0 |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0 |
| UK stamp duty tax | $0 (not applicable) | $0 |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Direct crypto trading is not available at BMO InvestorLine. Exposure is solely through crypto ETFs, so trading costs mirror standard ETF commissions: $9.95 USD per buy or sell. There are no overnight, spread, or custody fees outside standard ETF MERs and no transfer capability for crypto tokens.
| Fee Type | Conditions at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | $9.95/trade (crypto ETFs only) | 0.1%–2% per trade |
| Spread fees | $0 (ETF tracking, exchange-driven prices) | 0.1%–1% |
| Overnight fees | $0 (not applicable to ETFs) | 0% (spot); 0.05%–0.15%/day (CFDs) |
| Custody fees | $0 (ETF brokerage position) | $0–$10/month |
| Transfer fees | $0 (no crypto withdrawals supported) | $0–$10 |
Assets & Markets
BMO InvestorLine delivers a solid and reliable lineup of core investment products, tailored for Canadian investors who favour security, regulation, and the convenience of dealing with a "Big Five" bank. I value the comprehensive access to Canadian and US-listed stocks and ETFs, which allows me to build diversified portfolios and access both growth and income opportunities. Registered accounts such as RRSPs, TFSAs, and RESPs are fully supported, which is ideal for investors optimizing tax efficiency and long-term planning.
Bond and fixed income selection at BMO InvestorLine is strong, spanning government, corporate, and strip bonds, as well as GICs. This makes it easy to construct conservative, income-generating portfolios in a single platform. Mutual fund access and a competitive options market on both Canadian and US exchanges further add to the versatility of the platform, especially for those managing more sophisticated multi-asset strategies.
Where BMO InvestorLine falls short is in non-traditional and speculative assets. There is no direct trading of forex pairs, commodities, or cryptocurrencies; exposure to these alternative assets is available only through ETFs or mutual funds. There are also no CFDs, stablecoins, or NFT offerings, so traders seeking short-term leverage, digital assets, or advanced derivatives will quickly reach limitations with this platform. The lack of a demo account and relatively high standard trading commission further position BMO InvestorLine for established, security-focused investors rather than a new generation of cost-sensitive or globally diversified traders.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot | 2,000+ | 2,000–5,000+ | Royal Bank, Shopify, Apple, Tesla |
| ETFs | Spot | 1,000+ | 1,000–2,000+ | iShares TSX 60, BMO S&P 500 ETF, VOO |
| Cryptocurrencies | ETF only | 50+ crypto ETFs | 20–200 (direct/ETF) | Purpose Bitcoin ETF, CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF |
| Currencies | – | Not available | 20–80 | – |
| Commodities | ETF only | 50+ (indirect via ETFs) | 50–300 | BMO Gold ETF, Horizons Crude Oil ETF |
| Indices | ETF only | 50+ (index ETFs) | 20–100+ | BMO S&P 500 ETF, iShares MSCI EAFE |
| Bonds | Spot | 500+ | 500–2,000+ | Govt. of Canada 10yr, Enbridge bonds |
| Stablecoins | – | Not available | 5–15 (crypto) | – |
| NFTs | – | Not available | 10–100 (crypto) | – |
| Other derivatives | Options | 100+ (CAD/US options) | 100–500+ | S&P 500 calls/puts, TSX 60 index options |
Trading Tools & Apps
BMO InvestorLine’s web and mobile platforms are designed primarily for traditional investors who value stability, clarity, and integration within the BMO ecosystem. The browser-based interface delivers an organized dashboard, straightforward navigation, and direct access to vital features like real-time quotes, order management, research, and portfolio analysis. I find the platform's layout easy to grasp, making it approachable for beginners and practical for clients who favor steady, long-term wealth building over frequent trading.
The mobile app offers a functional extension of the desktop platform, with the capacity to check prices, place orders, and set alerts quickly. It is reliable for basic account management and trading but lacks the robust technical analysis capabilities and dynamic charting found on third-party apps like TradingView or MetaTrader. While the app is convenient for monitoring positions on the go, it does not offer the granularity or customization that active traders often require.
BMO InvestorLine relies exclusively on proprietary software. There is no support for MetaTrader, custom APIs, or algorithmic trading—automated strategies, bots, or advanced scripting are not available. The platform’s charting provides some basic built-in indicators and technical overlays; however, the depth is limited compared to specialized trading tools. Order entry is comprehensive, supporting market, limit, stop, stop limit, trailing stop, and other standard order types, but advanced features like OCO (one-cancels-other) are not included.
There is no provision for trading spot forex, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies directly. Exposure to commodities and crypto is available only via ETFs and funds. BMO InvestorLine also does not offer staking, earn features, or copy trading. Asset search and filter functions are effective for navigating Canadian and US equities, ETFs, options, mutual funds, and bonds, but do not extend to more niche or speculative markets.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app (MetaTrader, etc.) | Proprietary BMO InvestorLine mobile app (iOS/Android); no MetaTrader/TradingView |
| Usability | Fluid, conventional, beginner-friendly; not highly customizable |
| Compatible software | Proprietary web/mobile only; no MT4, MT5, TradingView, or API integration |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, trailing stop, GTC, GTD, FOK, AON; no OCO |
| Charting and technical analysis | Basic built-in indicators and overlays; lacks advanced or custom tools |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Not available; no bots, copy trading, automation, or API access |
| Algorithmic trading | Not supported; no scripts or coded strategies |
| Negative balance protection | Not applicable; no margin forex or CFD trading |
| Trading signals | Not available; research provided, but no live signals or third-party feeds |
| Asset search and filters | Stock/ETF/options/mutual fund/bond filters; effective for listed instruments |
| Spot stock purchase | Yes; physical Canadian and US-listed stocks and ETFs |
| Staking and earn | Not available; no staking or earn features |
Trip
For efficient order placement and portfolio monitoring, use the web platform for research and trade planning—then confirm or manage trades from the mobile app when you’re on the move. Enable two-factor authentication and regularly review your order defaults and account settings to ensure optimal security and execution accuracy.
Account Opening and Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account with BMO InvestorLine begins with completing a secure online application that guides you step by step. You’ll first provide personal information, select your account type (e.g., RRSP, TFSA, non-registered), and disclose your financial background through a regulatory questionnaire. The KYC (Know Your Customer) process requires you to upload a copy of government-issued photo ID, proof of address (recent utility bill or bank statement), and provide your Social Insurance Number for tax reporting purposes. Following submission, your application is reviewed—typically within 1 to 3 business days. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with account activation details and instructions for your first deposit.
Good to know
Ensure all information and uploaded documents are current and clearly legible to avoid delays—especially during peak investment periods, as processing times may increase.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online application, personal details, KYC steps, regulatory questionnaire, document upload |
| Validation time | 1–3 business days (for most applicants) |
| Accepted deposit methods | EFT (electronic funds transfer), bill payment, cheque, wire transfer |
| Minimum required deposit | $0 for self-directed account; $10,000 CAD for adviceDirect |
| Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, proof of address, SIN |
| Practical tip | Double-check your information and prepare digital scans of your documents in advance |
Deposits and withdrawals on BMO InvestorLine
Deposits to BMO InvestorLine can be made via electronic funds transfer (EFT) from a linked Canadian bank account, bill payment through most Canadian financial institutions, cheque, or wire transfer. Funds are generally credited within 1–2 business days for EFT/bill payment or wire, and within 3–5 days for cheques. Withdrawals are processed through EFT (no fee), cheque (no fee), or wire transfer (a $10 fee applies). Only Canadian dollars are supported for deposits and withdrawals—there’s no integrated wallet, no support for e-wallets or cryptocurrencies, and no fiat-to-crypto conversion. Additional banking fees may apply for wires, especially for cross-border transfers.
Good to know
Always use your BMO InvestorLine account number as the payment reference to avoid delays, and check with your local bank about any outgoing wire transfer fees.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | Not available | – | – | – |
| Bank transfer (EFT) | CAD | No minimum | 1–2 business days | None |
| Bill payment | CAD | No minimum | 1–2 business days | None |
| Cheque | CAD | No minimum | 3–5 business days | None |
| Wire transfer | CAD | No minimum | 1–2 business days | $10 (plus sending bank) |
| E-wallets | Not available | – | – | – |
| Stablecoins/crypto | Not available | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Not available | – | – | – |
Account Types
BMO InvestorLine is a Canadian online brokerage regulated by IIROC and a member of CIPF, catering primarily to self-directed investors with classic account structures and full support for registered (tax-advantaged) accounts like TFSA and RRSP. BMO InvestorLine is not a CFD/Forex broker, crypto platform, or hybrid provider. The platform does not offer CFDs, Raw ECN, Islamic, or crypto-specific accounts (such as staking or cold storage), but covers all basics with individual, margin, joint, and corporate accounts. Its feature set focuses on traditional equities, ETFs, bonds, options, GICs, and mutual funds, using CAD and USD as account currencies. Investors can’t access direct forex, leveraged CFD, or crypto trading—exposure to cryptocurrencies is only indirect via ETFs.
| Account type | Available (✅/❌) | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ❌ | Not offered; platform tours and educational resources available |
| Standard account | ✅ | Cash accounts for stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, GICs, bonds |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; no direct-to-market ECN pricing |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not available; no swap-free or Sharia-compliant options |
| Professional account | ✅ | Corporate, business, and joint investment accounts with personalized service |
| CFD account | ❌ | Not available; no leveraged CFD, spread betting, or retail forex |
| Classic securities account | ✅ | Core for all clients; all listed equities, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, options |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto, staking, or DeFi |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto wallet or custody service |
| Tax-advantaged account | ✅ | Supports TFSA, RRSP, RESP, RDSP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF, etc. for Canadian investors |
| Accepted base currencies | CAD, USD | Choose between CAD or USD accounts; dual-currency settlement for US and Canadian assets |
Trip
For most Canadians starting out, a TFSA or RRSP is a cost-effective way to maximize tax efficiency at BMO InvestorLine. If you plan to trade US stocks frequently, a USD sub-account can help avoid repeated conversion fees.
How does BMO InvestorLine compare to competitors?
| Feature | BMO InvestorLine | CIBC Investor's Edge | Questrade | Wealthsimple Trade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 | $0 ($1,000 recommended) | $0 | |
| Number of instruments | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds) | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Forex, CFDs, Bonds, etc.) | Thousands (Stocks & ETFs only) | |
| Spreads (examples) | Commission-based only ($6.95/trade standard) | Commission-based (Stocks: $4.95–$9.95; ETFs free to buy) | Commission-free (Stock/ETF trades); 1.5% FX fee on US trades | |
| Trading platforms | Web, Mobile App | Web, Mobile, Desktop (IQ Edge) | Web, Mobile App | |
| Regulation | IIROC, CIPF member | IIROC, CIPF member | IIROC, CIPF member | |
| Demo account | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Read the review | Read the review CIBC Investor's Edge | Read the review Questrade | Read the review Wealthsimple Trade |
Customer reviews
BMO InvestorLine has a Trustpilot rating of 1.7 out of 5, based on over 200 reviews as of July 2025. Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Reliable platform operation for executing trades
- Helpful and knowledgeable customer service representatives
- Easy-to-use interface for basic investing needs
- Smooth transfer and withdrawal processes
- Strong integration with BMO banking accounts
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- High trading commissions relative to some competitors
- Long wait times for reaching customer support by phone
- Lack of advanced features for active traders
- No USD registered account options (e.g., for RRSPs)
- Mobile app and charting tools could be improved
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
S.L. – 09/07/2025 : “The platform is reliable but the fees are higher than some competitors. Customer service is helpful but wait times can be long.”
R.P. – 22/06/2025 : “Easy to use for basic investing, but lacks advanced features for active traders. No access to US dollar RRSP accounts.”
M.G. – 15/05/2025 : “Transfers and withdrawals are smooth, but the mobile app could use more updates and better charting tools.”
FAQ
Is BMO InvestorLine regulated in CA?
Yes, BMO InvestorLine is fully regulated in Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), and it falls under the oversight of the Ontario Securities Commission and other provincial regulators.
What is the minimum deposit on BMO InvestorLine?
There is no minimum deposit required to open a Self-Directed account with BMO InvestorLine. However, the adviceDirect hybrid robo-advisor account requires a minimum initial deposit of $10,000 CAD.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer a welcome bonus?
BMO InvestorLine periodically offers promotions or welcome bonuses for new clients, often in the form of cash incentives or free trades, but these are not ongoing and may be subject to account type and funding requirements. Always check their website for current details.
How does leverage work on BMO InvestorLine?
Leverage is offered through margin accounts, allowing clients to borrow up to 50% of the value of eligible stocks (2:1 leverage). Margin is not available for registered accounts like TFSA or RRSP and is subject to IIROC regulations and specific securities’ eligibility.
How does BMO InvestorLine make money?
BMO InvestorLine earns revenue primarily through trading commissions, margin interest on borrowed funds, account-related fees, and currency conversion fees on international trades. The platform charges a flat commission for equity and ETF trades and additional fees for some services.
Who is behind BMO InvestorLine?
BMO InvestorLine is the direct investing division of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), a major Canadian financial institution established in 1817. The platform is designed to offer both self-directed and advice-based investing solutions to Canadian residents.
When was BMO InvestorLine launched?
BMO InvestorLine was launched in 1988 and has grown to be one of Canada’s leading online brokerages, consistently updating its technology and expanding its product range for retail investors.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer copy trading or social trading?
No, BMO InvestorLine does not offer copy trading, social trading, or managed account features. All trades and investment strategies must be carried out by clients directly, either independently or with the tools and resources provided.
How can I contact BMO InvestorLine’s customer service?
You can contact BMO InvestorLine’s customer service by phone (toll-free and local lines), secure online messaging through the platform, or email. Support is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Time, in both English and French.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer any promotions or referral programs?
BMO InvestorLine occasionally runs promotions, such as cash bonuses or free trade offers for new accounts or asset transfers, but there is no ongoing referral or cashback program. Check their official website for the latest promotional opportunities.
Is BMO InvestorLine regulated in CA?
Yes, BMO InvestorLine is fully regulated in Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), and it falls under the oversight of the Ontario Securities Commission and other provincial regulators.
What is the minimum deposit on BMO InvestorLine?
There is no minimum deposit required to open a Self-Directed account with BMO InvestorLine. However, the adviceDirect hybrid robo-advisor account requires a minimum initial deposit of $10,000 CAD.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer a welcome bonus?
BMO InvestorLine periodically offers promotions or welcome bonuses for new clients, often in the form of cash incentives or free trades, but these are not ongoing and may be subject to account type and funding requirements. Always check their website for current details.
How does leverage work on BMO InvestorLine?
Leverage is offered through margin accounts, allowing clients to borrow up to 50% of the value of eligible stocks (2:1 leverage). Margin is not available for registered accounts like TFSA or RRSP and is subject to IIROC regulations and specific securities’ eligibility.
How does BMO InvestorLine make money?
BMO InvestorLine earns revenue primarily through trading commissions, margin interest on borrowed funds, account-related fees, and currency conversion fees on international trades. The platform charges a flat commission for equity and ETF trades and additional fees for some services.
Who is behind BMO InvestorLine?
BMO InvestorLine is the direct investing division of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), a major Canadian financial institution established in 1817. The platform is designed to offer both self-directed and advice-based investing solutions to Canadian residents.
When was BMO InvestorLine launched?
BMO InvestorLine was launched in 1988 and has grown to be one of Canada’s leading online brokerages, consistently updating its technology and expanding its product range for retail investors.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer copy trading or social trading?
No, BMO InvestorLine does not offer copy trading, social trading, or managed account features. All trades and investment strategies must be carried out by clients directly, either independently or with the tools and resources provided.
How can I contact BMO InvestorLine’s customer service?
You can contact BMO InvestorLine’s customer service by phone (toll-free and local lines), secure online messaging through the platform, or email. Support is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Time, in both English and French.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer any promotions or referral programs?
BMO InvestorLine occasionally runs promotions, such as cash bonuses or free trade offers for new accounts or asset transfers, but there is no ongoing referral or cashback program. Check their official website for the latest promotional opportunities.
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