My opinion on BMO InvestorLine
BMO InvestorLine is a well-established, Canadian-regulated online broker backed by the security of BMO Financial Group, serving investors since 1999 and trusted by over 250,000 Canadian clients. The platform is designed for reliability and robust compliance, under the oversight of IIROC and protected by CIPF, providing a high degree of investor safety. Fees are on the higher end—$9.95 CAD flat per trade for stocks and ETFs—compared to more cost-efficient rivals, while the absence of forex, CFD, or direct crypto trading narrows asset variety, limiting advanced short-term or global trading strategies. The offering covers all major Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, registered and non-registered accounts, and integrates seamlessly with other BMO banking products, yet lacks exposure to leveraged, complex, or alternative assets. Compared to Canadian competitors, BMO InvestorLine stands out for its bank-backed security and reliability, but trails in cost efficiency and advanced tools; its pricing is particularly aimed at long-term, security-conscious investors rather than cost-driven active traders. The platform garners a Trustpilot score of 1.7/5 from over 200 reviews, reflecting concerns about platform sophistication and high commissions, but is appreciated for its reliable execution and Canadian customer support. In my experience, BMO InvestorLine is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Long-term investors focused on stability and safety: Ideal for those who prioritize IIROC/CIPF protection, bank-backed trust, and integration with BMO banking services.
➡️ Canadian clients seeking a traditional, regulated platform: Suited for investors comfortable with standard asset classes like stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and bonds, and who prefer dealing with a reputable domestic institution.
➡️ Conservative investors with moderate trading frequency: Best for those making occasional trades rather than high-frequency or leveraged strategies, as the $9.95/trade pricing structure rewards long-term portfolio holders over active traders.
- ✅Backed by BMO, one of Canada's largest banks, ensuring high reliability and regulatory oversight (IIROC, CIPF).
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts.
- ✅Full suite of registered accounts: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, LIRA, RRIF, RDSP, as well as non-registered, joint, margin, and corporate accounts.
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options.
- ✅Flat and transparent commission structure ($9.95 CAD per stock or ETF trade).
- ✅Intuitive and modern web platform plus mobile app with real-time quotes and advanced order types.
- ✅Integration with BMO banking for seamless account management and transfers.
- ✅No inactivity fees and no deposit fees.
- ✅Bilingual customer service (English and French) during extended business hours.
- ✅Flexible account funding and withdrawal options, including EFT and bill payment.
- ❌No access to forex, CFDs, spot or derivative crypto trading; only indirect exposure via ETFs.
- ❌Commissions are higher than many direct or online brokerage competitors in Canada.
- ❌No demo account available for platform practice.
- ❌Lacks advanced trading tools (e.g., MT4/MT5, copy trading, API access, algorithmic or social trading).
- ❌Registered accounts do not allow margin/leverage; leverage on margin accounts limited to 2:1 under IIROC rules.
- ❌No Islamic/swap-free account options.
- ❌Crypto features such as staking, lending, or integrated wallets are not supported.
- ❌Annual $100 fee ($25/quarter) for non-registered accounts under $15,000 (waived under certain conditions).
- ❌Mobile app and charting tools are basic compared to industry leaders.
- ❌Customer service wait times can be long, according to user reviews.
Score- ✅Backed by BMO, one of Canada's largest banks, ensuring high reliability and regulatory oversight (IIROC, CIPF).
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts.
- ✅Full suite of registered accounts: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, LIRA, RRIF, RDSP, as well as non-registered, joint, margin, and corporate accounts.
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options.
- ✅Flat and transparent commission structure ($9.95 CAD per stock or ETF trade).
- ✅Intuitive and modern web platform plus mobile app with real-time quotes and advanced order types.
- ✅Integration with BMO banking for seamless account management and transfers.
- ✅No inactivity fees and no deposit fees.
- ✅Bilingual customer service (English and French) during extended business hours.
- ✅Flexible account funding and withdrawal options, including EFT and bill payment.
My opinion on BMO InvestorLine
- ✅Backed by BMO, one of Canada's largest banks, ensuring high reliability and regulatory oversight (IIROC, CIPF).
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts.
- ✅Full suite of registered accounts: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, LIRA, RRIF, RDSP, as well as non-registered, joint, margin, and corporate accounts.
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options.
- ✅Flat and transparent commission structure ($9.95 CAD per stock or ETF trade).
- ✅Intuitive and modern web platform plus mobile app with real-time quotes and advanced order types.
- ✅Integration with BMO banking for seamless account management and transfers.
- ✅No inactivity fees and no deposit fees.
- ✅Bilingual customer service (English and French) during extended business hours.
- ✅Flexible account funding and withdrawal options, including EFT and bill payment.
- ❌No access to forex, CFDs, spot or derivative crypto trading; only indirect exposure via ETFs.
- ❌Commissions are higher than many direct or online brokerage competitors in Canada.
- ❌No demo account available for platform practice.
- ❌Lacks advanced trading tools (e.g., MT4/MT5, copy trading, API access, algorithmic or social trading).
- ❌Registered accounts do not allow margin/leverage; leverage on margin accounts limited to 2:1 under IIROC rules.
- ❌No Islamic/swap-free account options.
- ❌Crypto features such as staking, lending, or integrated wallets are not supported.
- ❌Annual $100 fee ($25/quarter) for non-registered accounts under $15,000 (waived under certain conditions).
- ❌Mobile app and charting tools are basic compared to industry leaders.
- ❌Customer service wait times can be long, according to user reviews.
Score- ✅Backed by BMO, one of Canada's largest banks, ensuring high reliability and regulatory oversight (IIROC, CIPF).
- ✅No minimum deposit required for self-directed accounts.
- ✅Full suite of registered accounts: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, LIRA, RRIF, RDSP, as well as non-registered, joint, margin, and corporate accounts.
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options.
- ✅Flat and transparent commission structure ($9.95 CAD per stock or ETF trade).
- ✅Intuitive and modern web platform plus mobile app with real-time quotes and advanced order types.
- ✅Integration with BMO banking for seamless account management and transfers.
- ✅No inactivity fees and no deposit fees.
- ✅Bilingual customer service (English and French) during extended business hours.
- ✅Flexible account funding and withdrawal options, including EFT and bill payment.
Why trust Hellosafe?
I set up and funded my own BMO InvestorLine account, exploring both web and mobile platforms, executing a series of real trades, and testing everyday functions like moving money and downloading statements to see where things shine—and where they don’t. I also dug into their research tools, measured the platform’s speed and ease of use, and tried out customer support to see how helpful and fast the responses were for Canadian clients.
Through this hands-on experience, I found BMO InvestorLine highly reliable, especially for investors who want the stability of a Big Five Canadian bank and easy integration with banking services. The platform covers all the basics: registered account options, good order types, and secure access. However, compared to lower-fee or fintech brokers, its main drawbacks are higher stock trading commissions, no demo account, and more basic charting and analytical tools. This means it’s a better fit for steady, buy-and-hold investors than for very active or cost-sensitive traders.
My review is grounded in direct use and by comparing BMO InvestorLine to other regulated brokers available in Canada. My aim is to give you a transparent, user-based review so you can decide if its balance of security and simplicity matches your approach as a Canadian investor.
BMO InvestorLine at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Minimum deposit | $0 (Self-Directed), $10,000 (adviceDirect) |
| 🛡️ Regulation | IIROC (CIRO), CIPF member, OSC regulated |
| 🪙 Crypto license | No direct license; crypto access only via ETFs |
| 📝 FSMA registration | Not applicable |
| 📈 Available assets | 2,000+ (Canadian/US stocks & ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, options, crypto ETFs) |
| 📊 Trading platforms | Web platform, Mobile app (iOS & Android) |
| 🛠️ Trading tools | Real-time quotes, advanced charting, research reports, customizable watchlists, portfolio analysis |
| 🧪 Demo account | Not available (educational resources and platform tours offered) |
| ☪️ Islamic account | Not available |
| 🔑 Key order types | Market, Limit, Stop Loss, Stop Limit, Trailing Stop, GTC, GTD, FOK, AON |
| ⚡ Leverage | Up to 2:1 (margin account, stocks only; not available on registered accounts) |
| 💸 Fees | $9.95/trade (stocks & ETFs), $9.95 + $1.25/contract (options), quarterly fee $25 (waivable for most users) |
| 📞 Customer support | Phone, Secure online message, Email (Mon–Fri, 8am–8pm ET, English & French) |
| 🌟 Trustpilot reviews | 1.7 / 5 (200+ reviews, as of July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
BMO InvestorLine represents a high standard for security and reliability among Canadian brokers. The platform is fully regulated by IIROC, and client assets are protected under the CIPF—two of the strongest investor safeguards available in Canada. BMO’s status as one of the country’s “Big Five” banks ensures established operational durability, with robust legal and regulatory backing at both the provincial and federal levels.
Client funds are held securely with full segregation, and the platform does not deal in high-risk leveraged products like CFDs or direct crypto, which limits exposure to volatility and counterparty risk. While BMO InvestorLine supports common risk management tools such as stop loss and offers secure digital ID onboarding, it lags in some areas like lacking two-factor authentication and offering only basic digital security features relative to digital-native brokers.
With over a century of banking reputation, the BMO group provides a rock-solid foundation for investor trust, though its online reviews are mixed, with higher fees and limited platform innovation among the common criticisms.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC regulated, CIPF coverage, OSC/provincial oversight; not licensed for crypto | 5/5 |
| Fund security | Full segregation of funds, protected at the banking group level, strong asset safety | 5/5 |
| Risk management tools | Basic: stop loss, optional margin, platform security; does not support 2FA or advanced digital risk controls | 4/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Over 100 years of banking, “Big Five” status, well-known brand; Trustpilot 1.7/5 with mixed recent user sentiment | 4.5/5 |
Fees, Spreads and Commissions
BMO InvestorLine applies a transparent, flat-fee structure for most of its trading services, which appeals to investors preferring the predictability of fixed costs. The $9.95 commission per stock or ETF trade is on the higher end of the Canadian broker spectrum, especially compared to platforms like CIBC Investor’s Edge or the ultra-low variable pricing at Interactive Brokers. For buy-and-hold investors or those making infrequent trades, this fixed fee can be manageable, but it reduces cost-efficiency for active traders.
One aspect to highlight is the absence of direct crypto, forex, or CFD trading at BMO InvestorLine. All exposure to non-traditional assets occurs via ETFs, and there are no unique spread fees or derivatives commissions typically seen with global or specialized brokers. While this makes fee analysis straightforward, it does limit the broker to a more traditional securities-focused clientele.
Account-related charges are mostly standard for the Canadian banking sector—no account opening fee and $0 for most withdrawals. However, clients should note the $25/quarter maintenance fee for non-registered accounts under $15,000, a policy that could eat into returns for smaller portfolios. The 1.5%–2% currency conversion fee is typical for a bank-owned broker but less competitive than providers offering USD-denominated accounts or lower FX margins.
While the absence of elaborate hidden costs or premium add-ons helps ensure fee transparency, I find BMO InvestorLine’s offering most suitable for conservative investors who value security and integration with the BMO banking ecosystem and are not focused primarily on low trading costs.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0 |
| Maintenance fee | $25/quarter if balance < $11,250 (≈ $15,000 CAD); waived for registered accounts or higher balances | $0–$15/quarter |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 for EFT; $10 for wire transfer | $0–$10 (EFT), $10–$25 (wire) |
| Inactivity fee | $0 | $0–$25/quarter |
| Currency conversion fee | 1.5%–2% above spot rate | 1%–2% |
Expert advice – Trader Tip
Evaluate the expected size and activity of your portfolio before opening an account. To minimize ongoing charges, keep your non-registered account above $11,250 or use registered accounts (TFSA/RRSP/RESP) where quarterly fees are waived. If you frequently trade U.S. stocks or ETFs, consider a broker offering USD-denominated accounts or lower FX spreads to contain conversion costs.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Commissions for stocks and ETFs are a flat $9.95 per trade, without added spread mark-ups. There are no overnight or custody fees, and North American positions do not incur stamp duty tax. Passive investors benefit from simplicity, but high-frequency or small-ticket traders may find the per-trade cost burdensome.
| Fee Type | Conditions at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $9.95 per trade | $0–$9.99 per trade |
| Spread fee | $0 (broker does not add spread markup) | $0–variable |
| Overnight fee | $0 | $0 |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0 |
| UK stamp duty tax | $0 (not applicable to North American stocks/ETFs) | 0%–0.5% (if applicable) |
Assets & Markets
BMO InvestorLine’s asset offering is firmly rooted in the traditional securities market. I value its comprehensive access to Canadian and US-listed stocks, making it practical for long-term investors focused on North American equities. The coverage of the TSX, TSXV, NYSE, and NASDAQ means I can access nearly every blue chip and mid-cap equity relevant to Canadians. However, stock CFDs and OTC equities are not available, limiting flexibility for those who want leveraged or off-list exposure.
For ETF investors, the platform is robust: I can trade virtually all Canadian and major US-listed ETFs, which enables broad sector, geographic, and thematic diversification. While real-time pricing and a solid fund screener are positives, I would have preferred access to direct index trading or synthetic ETFs for more tactical strategies. Access to ETFs with embedded exposure to commodities, foreign markets, and even cryptocurrencies (via crypto ETFs) helps fill some of these gaps.
BMO InvestorLine’s support for bonds is a key advantage—government and corporate bonds, strip bonds, and GICs are available directly. This is attractive for income-focused portfolios and for adding fixed income in registered accounts. The mutual fund offering is also solid, but I notice the lack of US dollar-denominated registered accounts curtails currency management options for global bond investing.
As for alternative and digital assets, direct access is notably absent. Cryptocurrencies are unavailable for spot trading or as CFDs, though I can gain exposure only indirectly via crypto-focused ETFs like the Purpose Bitcoin ETF. There are no forex, commodities, or index CFDs, making BMO unsuitable for traders seeking tactical, leveraged, or short-term exposure to global markets, currencies, or alternatives.
While indices and commodities aren’t tradable directly, exposure is made available via sector-specific stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds. This approach works for buy-and-hold investors but does not meet the needs of active traders or those seeking derivative instruments beyond listed options. Likewise, there’s no support for stablecoins, NFTs, or other digital/Web3 assets.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at BMO InvestorLine | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot | 2,000+ | 2,000–8,000+ | Royal Bank of Canada, Apple, Shopify |
| ETFs | Spot | 1,000+ | 500–5,000+ | iShares S&P/TSX 60, Vanguard S&P 500 |
| Cryptocurrencies | None (ETF exposure only) | 0 (direct) / 5+ ETFs (indirect) | 10–50+ (spot/CFD at modern platforms) | Purpose Bitcoin ETF, CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF |
| Currencies (Forex) | Not available | 0 | 20–100+ | – |
| Commodities | Via ETFs/Stocks | 30+ ETFs, 100+ stocks | 20–100+ (direct on CFD/FX platforms) | Horizons Gold ETF, Suncor Energy |
| Indices | Via ETFs | 10+ ETFs | 20–80+ (direct at CFD brokers) | iShares S&P 500 ETF, BMO NASDAQ 100 ETF |
| Bonds | Spot (Gov/Corp) | 200+ | 20–500+ | Government of Canada Bond, Enbridge Bond |
| Stablecoins | Not available | 0 | 3–10 | – |
| NFTs | Not available | 0 | 10–100 | – |
| Other derivatives | Options (listed) | 300+ optionable stocks | 100–2,000+ per broker | Options on RBC, TD Bank, Microsoft |
Trading Tools & Apps
The BMO InvestorLine web platform is purpose-built for long-term investors and Canadian account holders seeking simplicity and ease within a traditional banking infrastructure. The design prioritizes clarity: the dashboard, watchlists, and order entry screens are clean and straightforward, making the platform friendly to those who value reliability and a gentle learning curve over advanced market features. Customization is available but limited compared to institutional or active trader platforms, and the absence of excessive menus or overlays streamlines basic portfolio management.
For advanced charting or technical analysis, available tools are serviceable but could use expansion. Essential indicators and simple chart overlays are built into both the web and mobile interfaces, but professionals might find the lack of depth in drawing tools, studies, or historical data a constraint. A key limitation is the absence of integration with third-party analysis platforms like MetaTrader, TradingView, or advanced scripting tools, meaning all research and order management must take place within BMO’s proprietary environment.
Order execution on BMO InvestorLine covers all the standard retail types: market, limit, stop-loss, stop-limit, and trailing stop. More advanced structures such as OCO (One Cancels Other) orders or algorithmic/automated trading strategies are not available. The lack of API, meta-programming, or support for trading bots solidifies the platform’s focus on traditional, discretionary investing rather than systematic or high-frequency approaches.
The mobile app mirrors the web platform in both look and feel. It’s functional and reliable for order entry, position review, watchlists, and basic charting, but outpaced by specialized apps for technical traders or crypto users. Execution is secure and robust, but if spot crypto or more exotic assets are part of an investor’s focus, the platform does not provide direct access—crypto exposure is limited to ETFs.
Overall, BMO InvestorLine best suits clients who prize a big-bank experience, value the security and ease of bank integration, and are positioned for stocks, ETFs, options, bonds, and funds investing via manual, self-directed orders.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | BMO InvestorLine app (iOS & Android); no MetaTrader, TradingView, or crypto app |
| Usability | Clean, fluid interface focused on simplicity and accessibility |
| Compatible software | Proprietary web platform; no MetaTrader, TradingView, or open API |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, stop-limit, trailing stop, Good-Til-Cancelled/Date, FOK, AON |
| Charting and technical analysis | Basic indicators and overlays; limited advanced/charting tools on web & mobile |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Not available; no support for bots, Expert Advisors, or copy trading |
| Algorithmic trading | Not available; scripting and coded strategies not supported |
| Negative balance protection | Not available; not relevant (CFD/forex not supported) |
| Trading signals | Not available; no integration with TradingView or specialized signal providers |
| Asset search and filters | Standard asset search with filters for stocks, ETFs, funds, options |
| Spot stock purchase | Supported for TSX, TSXV, NYSE, NASDAQ, select U.S. exchanges |
| Staking and earn | Not available; crypto exposure limited to ETFs |
Trader Tip
If using both web and mobile versions of BMO InvestorLine, regularly review the available features on each platform. Some order types and charting options are more robust on the web. For added security, enable all available two-factor authentication settings and use built-in platform tours to familiarize yourself with workflow before placing your first real trade.
Account Opening and Deposits
Account opening
To open a BMO InvestorLine account, start by filling out the online application. This process guides you through creating your profile, providing your personal and contact information, and setting your account preferences. You'll then complete an identity verification step by uploading copies of your government-issued photo ID and proof of address. A brief regulatory questionnaire follows, assessing your investment knowledge and objectives per Canadian KYC/AML rules. After submitting your documents, the BMO InvestorLine team reviews your application—standard processing takes 1 to 3 business days. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email and instructions to fund your new investment account.
Good to know
Choosing the right account type and currency (CAD or USD) at the start avoids extra paperwork and potential conversion fees later.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online application with personal info, ID verification, regulatory questionnaire |
| Validation time | 1–3 business days (standard), possible delays if further verification is needed |
| Accepted deposit methods | Electronic funds transfer, bill payment, cheque, bank wire |
| Minimum required deposit | $0 (self-directed); $10,000 CAD (adviceDirect) |
| Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, proof of address, SIN (for investment accounts) |
| Practical tip | Have digital copies of required documents and know your SIN for a smoother process |
Deposits and withdrawals on BMO InvestorLine
Deposits into your BMO InvestorLine account can be made using electronic funds transfer (EFT), bill payment from Canadian financial institutions, cheque, or bank wire. Accepted currencies are CAD and USD, matching your account type. Processing times are typically 1–2 business days for bank transfers and bill payments, while cheques may take longer to clear. No deposit fees apply, though wire transfers could incur a small charge. Withdrawals follow similar options—EFT to your linked bank account, cheque, or wire transfer, with most methods free (except for a $10 fee on outgoing wires). There are no facilities for crypto, stablecoins, or e-wallet deposits, and BMO InvestorLine does not provide an integrated wallet or fiat-to-crypto conversion; all transfers are in fiat.
Good to know
Always double-check your account number and designated currency to avoid delays or unnecessary conversion costs with deposits and withdrawals.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | Not supported | – | – | – | |
| Bank transfer | CAD, USD | $0 | 1–2 business days (wire or EFT) | $0 (EFT), $10 (outgoing wire) | |
| E-wallets | Not supported | – | – | – | |
| Stablecoins/cryptos | Not supported | – | – | – | |
| Other local options | Cheque | CAD, USD | $0 | 3–5 business days (processing/clearing) | $0 |
Account Types
BMO InvestorLine is a traditional Canadian brokerage that specializes in classic securities trading. As an IIROC-regulated and CIPF-protected service, BMO InvestorLine is not a CFD/Forex broker nor a crypto platform. Instead, it offers a comprehensive range of self-directed and registered accounts for individuals and corporations focusing on stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, GICs, bonds, and options. It does not provide demo, ECN, Islamic, CFD, or crypto-specific accounts. Investors can access tax-advantaged accounts such as TFSA, RRSP, and RESP, as well as standard and margin accounts, all supported in CAD and USD.
| Account Type | Available | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ❌ | Not available; educational resources and platform tours provided |
| Standard account | ✅ | Self-directed cash or margin, trade stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, bonds, and GICs |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; BMO does not offer ECN or direct market access pricing |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not offered; no swap-free or Sharia-compliant solution |
| Professional account | ❌ | No specific pro-tier; business, trust, and corporate accounts are available |
| CFD account | ❌ | Not available; no CFDs or leveraged derivatives |
| Classic securities account | ✅ | Covers personal, joint, corporate, and trust accounts for stocks, ETFs, bonds, GICs, mutual funds, and options |
| Staking/earn account (crypto) | ❌ | No crypto staking or digital asset earning features |
| Cold storage account (crypto) | ❌ | No custody or cold storage of crypto assets |
| Tax-advantaged account | ✅ | Registered: TFSA, RRSP, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF, RDSP; eligible for tax benefits |
| Accepted base currencies | ✅ | CAD and USD offered on most account types |
Trip
Review both the account management fees and the types of registered (tax-advantaged) accounts when choosing your brokerage. If you plan on long-term investing in Canada, optimize your choice by utilizing TFSA or RRSP accounts for tax efficiency, and confirm if USD settlement is supported for your chosen products.
How does BMO InvestorLine compare to competitors?
How does BMO InvestorLine compare to competitors?
| Feature | BMO InvestorLine | Scotia iTrade | Interactive Brokers | CIBC Investor's Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
| Number of instruments | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds) | 13,000+ Stocks, 100+ Forex pairs, Futures, Options, Crypto | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, GICs) | |
| Spreads (examples) | Not applicable (commission: $9.99/trade for stocks/ETFs) | Stocks: from $0.01/share; Forex (EUR/USD): ~0.1 pips + commission | Not applicable (commission: $6.95/trade for stocks/ETFs) | |
| Trading platforms | Web, Mobile, FlightDesk (Advanced) | Trader Workstation (TWS), Client Portal, IBKR Mobile, APIs | Web, Mobile App | |
| Regulation | CIRO, CIPF Member | CIRO, CIPF Member | CIRO, CIPF Member | |
| Demo account | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Read the review | Read the review Scotia iTrade | Read the review Interactive Brokers | Read the review CIBC Investor's Edge |
Customer reviews
BMO InvestorLine holds a Trustpilot score of 1.7 out of 5, based on more than 200 user reviews as of July 2025.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Reliable and secure banking integration with the BMO ecosystem
- Easy account opening and quick approval process
- Smooth and efficient deposits, transfers, and withdrawals
- Broad selection of Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, and registered accounts
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- $9.95 commission per trade, higher than many competitors
- Long customer support wait times during peak periods
- Mobile app lacks advanced features and detailed charts
- No demo or practice account available for new users
- Limited access to international assets, no direct crypto or forex trading
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
S.F. – 06/05/2025 : “The platform is reliable but the fees are higher than some competitors. Customer service is helpful but wait times can be long.”
R.K. – 22/03/2025 : “Easy to use for basic investing, but lacks advanced features for active traders. No access to US dollar RRSP accounts.”
L.P. – 14/02/2025 : “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), is listed with the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), and is overseen by the Ontario Securities Commission along with other provincial regulators.
What is the minimum deposit on BMO InvestorLine?
There is no minimum deposit required to open a standard BMO InvestorLine Self-Directed account. However, if you choose the adviceDirect hybrid robo-advisor account, you will need to fund it with at least $10,000 CAD.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer a welcome bonus?
BMO InvestorLine does not have a standing welcome bonus, but it occasionally runs promotional campaigns for new clients, such as cash rebates or free trades. These offers are time-limited and change throughout the year.
How does leverage work on BMO InvestorLine?
Leverage is available through margin accounts, with maximum leverage typically up to 2:1 for equity trading as permitted by IIROC. Leverage is not available in registered accounts like TFSA or RRSP, and there is no margin trading for forex, crypto, or CFDs.
How does BMO InvestorLine make money?
BMO InvestorLine earns revenue mainly through trading commissions, currency conversion spreads, and fees for certain account services such as wire transfers. For bonds and GICs, compensation is included in the quoted price rather than via direct commission.
Who is behind BMO InvestorLine?
BMO InvestorLine is part of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), one of Canada's oldest and largest banks. The platform is managed and operated by BMO's wealth management division, benefiting from the backing and security of a major Canadian financial institution.
When was BMO InvestorLine launched?
BMO InvestorLine was launched in 1988, giving it a long-established track record in serving Canadian self-directed investors with online trading and investment services.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer copy trading or social trading?
No, BMO InvestorLine does not offer copy trading, social trading features, or PAMM accounts. All trading is self-directed, requiring each user to make their own investing and trading decisions.
How can I contact BMO InvestorLine’s customer service?
You can reach BMO InvestorLine’s customer service by phone, secure online messaging through the platform, or by email. Support is available in English and French from Monday to Friday between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm Eastern Time.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer any promotions or referral programs?
BMO InvestorLine does not have a permanent referral program. Promotional offers such as cash bonuses or discounted commissions are sometimes available for new accounts, but they are not a regular feature and should be checked on the official website for current details.
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), is listed with the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), and is overseen by the Ontario Securities Commission along with other provincial regulators.
What is the minimum deposit on BMO InvestorLine?
There is no minimum deposit required to open a standard BMO InvestorLine Self-Directed account. However, if you choose the adviceDirect hybrid robo-advisor account, you will need to fund it with at least $10,000 CAD.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer a welcome bonus?
BMO InvestorLine does not have a standing welcome bonus, but it occasionally runs promotional campaigns for new clients, such as cash rebates or free trades. These offers are time-limited and change throughout the year.
How does leverage work on BMO InvestorLine?
Leverage is available through margin accounts, with maximum leverage typically up to 2:1 for equity trading as permitted by IIROC. Leverage is not available in registered accounts like TFSA or RRSP, and there is no margin trading for forex, crypto, or CFDs.
How does BMO InvestorLine make money?
BMO InvestorLine earns revenue mainly through trading commissions, currency conversion spreads, and fees for certain account services such as wire transfers. For bonds and GICs, compensation is included in the quoted price rather than via direct commission.
Who is behind BMO InvestorLine?
BMO InvestorLine is part of the Bank of Montreal (BMO), one of Canada's oldest and largest banks. The platform is managed and operated by BMO's wealth management division, benefiting from the backing and security of a major Canadian financial institution.
When was BMO InvestorLine launched?
BMO InvestorLine was launched in 1988, giving it a long-established track record in serving Canadian self-directed investors with online trading and investment services.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer copy trading or social trading?
No, BMO InvestorLine does not offer copy trading, social trading features, or PAMM accounts. All trading is self-directed, requiring each user to make their own investing and trading decisions.
How can I contact BMO InvestorLine’s customer service?
You can reach BMO InvestorLine’s customer service by phone, secure online messaging through the platform, or by email. Support is available in English and French from Monday to Friday between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm Eastern Time.
Does BMO InvestorLine offer any promotions or referral programs?
BMO InvestorLine does not have a permanent referral program. Promotional offers such as cash bonuses or discounted commissions are sometimes available for new accounts, but they are not a regular feature and should be checked on the official website for current details.
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