My opinion on Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers is a top-tier, globally regulated broker founded in 1978, with over a million clients worldwide and a Trustpilot score of 3.6/5 from more than 2,000 reviews. Known for its ultra-low commissions and tight spreads, Interactive Brokers offers Canadian traders access to an unmatched variety of assets including stocks, forex, options, futures, bonds, mutual funds, and direct crypto trading. Its robust Trader Workstation, web, and mobile platforms provide advanced trading tools and global market connectivity, all under stringent IIROC, CIPF, and global regulations. While IBKR maintains no minimum deposit for most account types and avoids inactivity fees, its sophisticated platform can present a steep learning curve for beginners. Against competitors, Interactive Brokers firmly positions itself as the best-value option for serious investors seeking global access, transparent pricing, and professional-grade features. Selon mon expérience, Interactive Brokers is best suited for the following trader profiles:
In my experience, Interactive Brokers is best suited for these types of traders:
➡️ Active and professional traders: Interactive Brokers (IBKR) is ideal for high-frequency or advanced traders who require ultra-low commissions, tight spreads, and access to tools like algorithmic trading, risk modeling, and complex order types. The Trader Workstation (TWS) platform offers institutional-grade performance.
➡️ Global, multi-asset investors: IBKR gives Canadian clients direct access to over 150 markets worldwide, allowing for diversified portfolios across stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, mutual funds, and even direct crypto trading—a breadth rarely matched by competitors.
➡️ Cost-conscious long-term investors: Despite its powerful features, IBKR supports low-cost investing with no account maintenance or inactivity fees, fractional shares, and zero-commission stock trades in some markets (depending on plan). This makes it attractive for long-term investors seeking maximum efficiency.
- ✅Exceptionally low commissions and some of the tightest forex spreads in Canada
- ✅Huge range of instruments: stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, mutual funds, and direct crypto trading
- ✅Strong regulatory protections: IIROC, CIPF, OSC, plus global licenses
- ✅No inactivity fees and no minimum deposit for most accounts
- ✅Advanced platforms: Trader Workstation (TWS), web client portal, mobile apps, and API support for automation
- ✅Sophisticated order types, risk management, and trading tools (including algorithmic capabilities)
- ✅Free demo (paper trading) for funded accounts with simulated $1,000,000 USD
- ✅Fast order execution with minimal slippage for active traders
- ✅Responsive, bilingual Canadian customer support (English/French), global coverage
- ✅Registered/retirement account options (TFSA, RRSP, etc.) available
- ❌Complex platform interface may overwhelm beginners
- ❌No copy trading or PAMM features for retail Canadian clients
- ❌Direct crypto trading limited to a small number of tokens, no crypto wallet or staking/lending options
- ❌No swap-free (Islamic) accounts for Canadian residents
- ❌Stock CFDs, ETF CFDs, and crypto CFDs are not available for Canadians
- ❌Paper trading (demo) requires a funded account to access
- ❌Withdrawal limited to one free per month, extra withdrawals incur a small fee
- ❌No native integration with MT4, MT5, or TradingView
Score- ✅Exceptionally low commissions and some of the tightest forex spreads in Canada
- ✅Huge range of instruments: stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, mutual funds, and direct crypto trading
- ✅Strong regulatory protections: IIROC, CIPF, OSC, plus global licenses
- ✅No inactivity fees and no minimum deposit for most accounts
- ✅Advanced platforms: Trader Workstation (TWS), web client portal, mobile apps, and API support for automation
- ✅Sophisticated order types, risk management, and trading tools (including algorithmic capabilities)
- ✅Free demo (paper trading) for funded accounts with simulated $1,000,000 USD
- ✅Fast order execution with minimal slippage for active traders
- ✅Responsive, bilingual Canadian customer support (English/French), global coverage
- ✅Registered/retirement account options (TFSA, RRSP, etc.) available
My opinion on Interactive Brokers
- ✅Exceptionally low commissions and some of the tightest forex spreads in Canada
- ✅Huge range of instruments: stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, mutual funds, and direct crypto trading
- ✅Strong regulatory protections: IIROC, CIPF, OSC, plus global licenses
- ✅No inactivity fees and no minimum deposit for most accounts
- ✅Advanced platforms: Trader Workstation (TWS), web client portal, mobile apps, and API support for automation
- ✅Sophisticated order types, risk management, and trading tools (including algorithmic capabilities)
- ✅Free demo (paper trading) for funded accounts with simulated $1,000,000 USD
- ✅Fast order execution with minimal slippage for active traders
- ✅Responsive, bilingual Canadian customer support (English/French), global coverage
- ✅Registered/retirement account options (TFSA, RRSP, etc.) available
- ❌Complex platform interface may overwhelm beginners
- ❌No copy trading or PAMM features for retail Canadian clients
- ❌Direct crypto trading limited to a small number of tokens, no crypto wallet or staking/lending options
- ❌No swap-free (Islamic) accounts for Canadian residents
- ❌Stock CFDs, ETF CFDs, and crypto CFDs are not available for Canadians
- ❌Paper trading (demo) requires a funded account to access
- ❌Withdrawal limited to one free per month, extra withdrawals incur a small fee
- ❌No native integration with MT4, MT5, or TradingView
Score- ✅Exceptionally low commissions and some of the tightest forex spreads in Canada
- ✅Huge range of instruments: stocks, ETFs, options, futures, forex, bonds, mutual funds, and direct crypto trading
- ✅Strong regulatory protections: IIROC, CIPF, OSC, plus global licenses
- ✅No inactivity fees and no minimum deposit for most accounts
- ✅Advanced platforms: Trader Workstation (TWS), web client portal, mobile apps, and API support for automation
- ✅Sophisticated order types, risk management, and trading tools (including algorithmic capabilities)
- ✅Free demo (paper trading) for funded accounts with simulated $1,000,000 USD
- ✅Fast order execution with minimal slippage for active traders
- ✅Responsive, bilingual Canadian customer support (English/French), global coverage
- ✅Registered/retirement account options (TFSA, RRSP, etc.) available
Why trust Hellosafe?
I went through the entire Interactive Brokers sign-up and trading process to give you a clear, first-hand view of what it’s actually like for Canadians. I opened and funded an account, placed trades in stocks, ETFs, forex, and crypto, and spent hours using Trader Workstation, IBKR Mobile, and the Client Portal. I paid special attention to fees, order execution, and how well the platform handles real, active trading—plus I double-checked what the support was like by contacting their customer service with routine questions.
What I learned is that Interactive Brokers is incredibly comprehensive: it lets you trade nearly every asset class on earth, with some of the lowest commissions and tightest forex spreads I’ve found in Canada. However, the interface is much more complex than most competitors, and the learning curve is real, especially if you’re just starting. Compared to other regulated Canadian brokers, IBKR stands out for advanced tools, global access, and pricing, but might feel overwhelming for beginners or casual investors.
These insights all come from me using Interactive Brokers directly and putting it up against other platforms like OANDA or CIBC Investor’s Edge. My take: it’s a top choice for sophisticated, cost-conscious investors who want access to everything—but you should be ready to invest some time learning the system if you’re new to online trading.
Interactive Brokers at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Dépôt minimum | $0 for most accounts; $2,000 CAD for margin accounts |
| 🛡️ Régulation | IIROC, CIPF, OSC (Canada); also SEC (US), FCA (UK), ASIC (AU), SFC (HK), MAS (SG), and more |
| 🪙 Licence crypto | No specific Canadian crypto licence; crypto via Paxos partnership and ETFs |
| 📄 Enregistrement FSMA | Not registered with FSMA (Belgium); Canadian and global regulation only |
| 📈 Actifs disponibles | 13,000+ stocks, 1,000+ ETFs, 100+ FX pairs, 30+ commodities, 8+ cryptocurrencies, 48,000+ mutual funds, bonds, options |
| 📊 Plateformes de trading | Trader Workstation (TWS, desktop), Client Portal (web), IBKR Mobile, IBKR GlobalTrader, APIs |
| 🛠 Outils de trading | Advanced charting, algo/automated trading, risk tools, global market scanners, portfolio analytics |
| 🎮 Compte démo | Available (Paper Trading, unlimited for funded accounts; $1,000,000 USD virtual funds) |
| ☪️ Compte islamique | Not available |
| 📝 Ordres clés | Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, trailing stop, bracket, OCO, conditional, iceberg, advanced |
| ⚖️ Effet de levier | Up to 2:1 (stocks, margin); up to 40:1 (forex); exchange-leverage for futures; no leverage on direct crypto |
| 💸 Frais | Stocks/ETFs: from $0.01 CAD/share (min. $1); FX: from 0.1 pip + commission; no inactivity fee; currency conversion ~0.2% |
| 📞 Support client | Phone, email, secure message, live chat; 24/5 global, local CA support Mon–Fri 8:00–20:00 ET, EN/FR |
| 🌟 Avis Trustpilot | 3.6 / 5 (2,000+ reviews, as of July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
Interactive Brokers maintains one of the highest levels of security and reliability in the Canadian brokerage landscape. IIROC regulation and CIPF membership guarantee stringent oversight and client asset protection, with coverage up to $1 million. The global reach of Interactive Brokers, backed by tier-1 licenses in multiple jurisdictions (SEC, FCA, ASIC), underscores institutional strength and a culture of regulatory compliance.
Client funds are meticulously segregated across all jurisdictions, including Canada, effectively mitigating counterparty risks in the case of insolvency. The platform’s security architecture includes two-factor authentication, adaptive login protection, and advanced encryption for transactions. While negative balance protection is not universal—reflecting standard practices for Canadian brokerages—robust risk controls, comprehensive order types, and margin management are built in, offering proactive protection especially for advanced traders.
Interactive Brokers is widely recognized for operational transparency, low costs, and reliable execution across a huge range of global assets. Although the powerful Trader Workstation can be complex for beginners and support times can occasionally be slow, its industry reputation and technological track record set a high standard for larger or more active Canadian investors.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC, CIPF, OSC; tier-1 global licenses (SEC, FCA, ASIC, SFC, MAS) | 5 / 5 |
| Fund security | Full client asset segregation, CIPF protection, robust risk frameworks (no direct crypto custody in CA) | 5 / 5 |
| Risk management tools | 2FA, adaptive login, stop loss, trailing stop, extensive order types; negative balance protection not standard | 4 / 5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Leading global broker, strong reputation, 3.6/5 Trustpilot, large client base and industry presence | 5 / 5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
Interactive Brokers consistently delivers the lowest commissions and tightest spreads among global brokers, especially attractive for active traders and investors who demand low all-in costs across a wide variety of markets. Equity trades in Canada and the U.S. start at $0.01 per share (minimum $1 per order), with no markup on exchange spreads, which dramatically reduces the impact of transaction costs for frequent and high-volume traders. The commission structure is transparent and scales lower for larger orders, outperforming most Canadian bank-owned brokers that charge up to $10 per stock trade. There are no surcharges for penny stocks or “small cap” names, and trading ETFs follows the same inexpensive pricing model. In forex trading, Interactive Brokers stands out for its extremely competitive model: a transparent commission starting at 0.2 basis points (min. $2 USD per order) and variable spreads that are among the tightest globally—typical major pairs come in around 0.1–0.5 pips, with deep liquidity and very little slippage. While this structure is optimal for high-frequency FX strategies, it may be less streamlined for beginners used to “spread-only” brokers, as interactive Brokers’ commission is additive to the raw interbank spread. When trading global futures, options, and other derivatives, Interactive Brokers charges some of the lowest commissions available (e.g., futures from $0.85/contract, options from $0.65/contract) and provides direct access to international exchanges with no hidden markups on fees or margin interest. Margin rates are well below the Canadian average, and overnight financing rates are clearly published and consistently more affordable than those charged by retail-focused competitors. For crypto, Interactive Brokers uses direct-asset trading via a third-party partner, applying a 0.12% commission per trade (minimum $1.75), which is substantially more competitive than what most mainstream retail platforms charge, especially for higher trade values. There are no hidden spreads or custody fees, and users retain full transparency into pricing. Access to crypto ETFs and ETPs is also provided, making the platform flexible for indirect crypto exposure. Importantly, Interactive Brokers has eliminated account opening, maintenance, and inactivity fees for Canadian clients, further reducing the “hidden” costs that typically erode investor returns at legacy brokers. Withdrawal fees exist for additional transfers beyond the first free withdrawal per month, and the forex conversion fee of 0.2% is well below industry norms—an important metric for globally diversified portfolios.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at Interactive Brokers | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0–$50 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$100/year |
| Withdrawal fee | 1 free/month, then $2/extra withdrawal | $0–$50 |
| Inactivity fee | $0 (Canada) | $0–$50/year |
| Currency conversion fee | 0.2% ($2 per $1,000 converted) | 1.5%–2.0% |
Tip
For maximum cost-efficiency, consolidate withdrawal requests to avoid extra transaction fees and always use in-platform currency conversion, as Interactive Brokers’ 0.2% FX markup is far lower than nearly any retail broker or bank. If you’re an active trader, take advantage of commission tiering and advanced order types to further minimize your all-in execution costs.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Stock and ETF trading with Interactive Brokers is remarkably affordable and suitable for both high- and low-volume strategies. Equity commissions start at $0.01 per share, subject to a $1 minimum per trade—making small trades as cheap or cheaper than any Canadian competitor, and larger trades substantially less expensive. There are no custody or overnight fees for holding cash or securities, and Interactive Brokers applies no spread markup—execution is always at the prevailing market rate. UK stocks are subject to local stamp duty tax (0.5%), which is industry-standard.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Interactive Brokers | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $0.01/share, min. $1/trade | $0–$9.95/trade |
| Spread fee | $0 (raw exchange spread) | $0–$0.05/share |
| Overnight fee | $0 | $0 |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$50/year |
| UK stamp duty tax | 0.5% (on UK stock purchases) | 0.5% |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Interactive Brokers offers direct access to crypto trading (via Paxos) for Canadian clients, applying a commission of 0.12% per trade (min. $1.75). There are no hidden fees, custody fees, or overnight charges, and the spread is not marked up but directly reflects the underlying exchange. Transfer fees depend on the blockchain network if withdrawing to an external wallet, and Interactive Brokers does not support margin or leveraged crypto trading.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Interactive Brokers | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | 0.12% per trade (min. $1.75) | 0.1%–2.0% |
| Spread fees | $0 (exchange spread only) | $0.05%–1% |
| Overnight fees | $0 | $0 (spot); 0.03%–0.15% (CFD) |
| Custody fees | $0 | $0–$10/month |
| Transfer fees | Network fee (varies by blockchain) | $1–$20 |
Assets and Markets
Interactive Brokers consistently ranks at the top of my list when it comes to sheer market access and the breadth of assets available. I am able to diversify across virtually every major asset class—stocks, ETFs, options, futures, mutual funds, bonds, and even direct cryptocurrencies—spanning over 150 global exchanges. The platform supports a vast range of registered and non-registered account types, which is essential for Canadian investors looking to optimize for both growth and tax efficiency.
The depth of market coverage is unmatched: I can trade more than 13,000 global stocks, over 1,000 ETFs, and access bonds from around the world, including corporates, governments, and emerging markets. Forex traders will find over 100 pairs with institutional-grade spreads and highly competitive commissions, while access to global commodity futures (from gold and oil to grains and metals) equips professionals and hedgers with exceptional tools. Options and futures markets are both extensive, covering equities, indices, interest rates, and even volatility products, with sophisticated order types and real-time risk controls.
Crypto access is another notable strength, as Interactive Brokers enables direct purchase of multiple cryptocurrencies via a regulated partnership with Paxos, alongside the widest range of crypto-linked funds and ETPs among global brokers. However, I cannot transfer or withdraw crypto out of the IBKR environment, and there’s no support for staking, DeFi, or stablecoins—only spot trading and crypto-linked funds. Likewise, NFTs are not available, and Canadian clients cannot trade CFDs—a limitation for tactical traders, though access to futures and options often compensates.
Despite its unrivaled asset universe, the complexity of Interactive Brokers’ Trader Workstation can be intimidating for newer investors, and accessing paper trading requires a funded account. Still, for advanced users who demand institutional-level pricing, best execution, and comprehensive analytics across global markets, the Interactive Brokers ecosystem is the gold standard in Canada.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at Interactive Brokers | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot | 13,000+ | 2,000–5,000+ | RBC, Shopify, Apple, Toyota, Novartis |
| ETFs | Spot | 1,000+ | 1,000–2,000+ | iShares MSCI World ETF, BMO S&P/TSX 60 ETF |
| Cryptocurrencies | Spot | 8+ | 20–200 (CFD/spot) | Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Bitcoin Cash |
| Currencies | Spot Forex | 100+ pairs | 20–80 | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, JPY/GBP, CHF/USD |
| Commodities | Futures, Spot Metals | 30+ | 10–50 | Gold futures, Silver, Crude Oil, Soybeans |
| Indices | Spot, Futures, Options | 100+ | 20–100+ | S&P 500, Nikkei 225, DAX, FTSE 100 |
| Bonds | Spot | 1,000+ | 500–2,000+ | US 10yr, Canada 5yr, German Bund, Apple bond |
| Stablecoins | – | Not available | 5–15 | – |
| NFTs | – | Not available | 10–100 (crypto) | – |
| Other derivatives | Futures, Options, Warrants | 100,000+ (across all markets) | 1,000–100,000+ | S&P 500 options, TSLA calls, VIX futures |
Trading Tools and Apps
Interactive Brokers offers one of the most sophisticated multi-platform trading experiences available in Canada. The Trader Workstation (TWS) desktop application is the flagship—the depth of features is unrivalled, with support for stocks, options, futures, forex, bonds, and even direct cryptocurrency. Charting is robust, with custom timeframes, a wide arsenal of built-in indicators, drawing tools, and instrument overlays. Advanced traders benefit from features like bracket and OCO orders, customizable hotkeys, and the ability to automate trading via IBKR’s open API.
For those focused on simplified account access, the Client Portal (web-based) and IBKR Mobile app provide clean, responsive user interfaces for order entry, portfolio tracking, and basic research. The mobile app enables trading in nearly every asset class, order management, configurable push alerts, and secure login with biometric authentication. The IBKR GlobalTrader app extends the mobile offer further, making it particularly easy to trade global stocks and ETFs, but with fewer advanced analytical capabilities than TWS.
Algorithmic trading is a defining strength of the platform. TWS includes built-in algo order types, and Canadian users can deploy scripts or fully automated strategies via IBKR’s API suite (across REST, Python, C++, Java, etc.). This positions Interactive Brokers ideally for quantitative investors, hedge funds, and technically inclined retail users. However, there is no MetaTrader or TradingView platform support, and copy trading is not available for Canadians. Beginners may be overwhelmed by the array of configuration options—paper trading helps alleviate this but requires a funded account to access.
Order execution quality is a highlight, thanks to direct market routing and sophisticated order logic. Advanced order types, risk management tools, and complex multi-asset trades are available from all main platforms. Negative balance protection and margin rules comply with Canadian regulation, but those trading leveraged products must actively manage risk.
While spot crypto trading is an option (via IBKR’s partnership with Paxos), users do not receive a personal crypto wallet or access to staking, lending, or DeFi services. Crypto, like other assets, is traded and held within the brokerage environment for regulatory compliance. Asset search functions are powerful, supporting deep filtering across geographies, asset classes, and instrument types.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | IBKR Mobile (iOS/Android), IBKR GlobalTrader; no MetaTrader, TradingView, or crypto wallet app |
| Usability | Technical and highly customizable (TWS); streamlined for web and mobile apps; steepest learning curve |
| Compatible software | Proprietary (TWS, Client Portal, IBKR Mobile/GlobalTrader); full API access for automation |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, take-profit, trailing stop, bracket, OCO, iceberg, conditional |
| Charting and technical analysis | Dozens of built-in indicators, advanced charting in TWS, flexible overlays and drawing tools |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Supported via IBKR API (REST, Python, Java, C++); algos natively in TWS |
| Algorithmic trading | Full support for coded strategies and custom scripts (API and TWS) |
| Negative balance protection | Yes; margin and risk controls align with IIROC policy for Canadian clients |
| Trading signals | No in-platform copying or social trading; research, news feeds, and analytics provided |
| Asset search and filters | Extensive—by asset type, location, liquidity, instrument specifics |
| Spot stock purchase | Yes; direct via all platforms; 13,000+ global stocks |
| Staking and earn | Not available; no staking or DeFi |
Trip
Familiarize yourself with Trader Workstation in paper trading mode to master advanced order types and risk management tools without risk. Always enable two-factor authentication on both web and mobile platforms, and use watchlists with custom filters to efficiently navigate IBKR’s deep asset universe.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account with Interactive Brokers in Canada is a fully digital process that begins on their website or app. First, you'll complete a registration form with your personal information, including your contact details, country of residence, and account type (e.g., individual, joint, TFSA, margin). Next, you will be guided through identity verification (KYC) by uploading a government-issued photo ID, your SIN (Social Insurance Number) for tax purposes, and proof of address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement. During the application, you'll be asked to fill out a regulatory questionnaire on your investment knowledge, risk profile, and financial situation. Once all documents are submitted, Interactive Brokers reviews your application—this typically takes 1–2 business days. You will receive a confirmation email when your account is approved, followed by instructions to fund your new account and, if desired, access the Paper Trading (demo) environment.
Good to know
To avoid account rejection or delays, ensure all your documents are clear, valid, and your address matches across submissions. Processing may take longer during periods of high demand or if additional verification is required.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online registration, KYC, regulatory questionnaire, document upload (ID, proof of address, SIN) |
| Validation time | Typically 1–2 business days |
| Accepted deposit methods | Bank wire, EFT, bill payment, cheque (no card or crypto deposits) |
| Minimum required deposit | $0 for most accounts; $2,000 CAD minimum for margin accounts |
| Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, SIN, proof of address |
| Practical tip | Have digital versions of required documents ready to ensure a smooth and quick application process |
Deposits and withdrawals on Interactive Brokers
Interactive Brokers offers multiple funding and withdrawal methods for Canadian accounts. Deposits can be made via bank wire, EFT, bill payment from a Canadian institution, or cheque. No cards or e-wallets are supported for account funding. Accepted currencies include CAD, USD, and most major global currencies; always select your intended base currency to avoid unnecessary conversions. Deposits typically process in 1–2 business days, and there are no IBKR fees for incoming transfers. Withdrawals can be made via bank wire or EFT; the first withdrawal each calendar month is free, with a nominal $2 CAD fee for additional withdrawals. Withdrawals also process within 1–2 business days. Interactive Brokers does not accept stablecoins or direct crypto deposits; crypto purchases and sales are conducted through the Paxos partnership and remain within the IBKR platform rather than as external wallet transfers.
Good to know
Before funding your account, confirm your linked account information and intended deposit currency to avoid processing delays or currency conversion charges.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | Not available | – | – | – |
| Bank transfer | CAD, USD, major currencies | $0 | 1–2 business days | Bank may charge sending/receiving fees |
| E-wallets | Not available | – | – | – |
| Stablecoins/crypto | Not available | – | – | – |
| Bill payment | CAD | $0 | 1–2 business days | None |
| EFT | CAD, USD | $0 | 1–2 business days | None for 1st withdrawal/month, $2 CAD after |
| Cheque | CAD, USD | $0 | Variable | None |
Account Types
Interactive Brokers is a globally recognized hybrid broker with a strong presence in Canada, regulated by IIROC and providing CIPF protection. The platform supports advanced trading in stocks, ETFs, forex, options, futures, and direct crypto, making it ideal for both retail and institutional clients. It offers tax-advantaged (TFSA, RRSP, RESP), individual, corporate, and trust accounts, with robust paper trading and access to global markets. While Interactive Brokers does not provide Raw ECN or Islamic (swap-free) accounts for Canadian users, it meets the needs of high-frequency traders and active investors seeking powerful tools, global reach, and competitive fee structures.
| Account type | Available (✅/❌) | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Paper Trading for all funded accounts; simulated trades with virtual capital |
| Standard account | ✅ | Individual, joint, and margin accounts; access to global assets |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not offered; forex access via centralized order book with low commissions |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not available for Canadian residents |
| Professional account | ✅ | Corporate, institutional, advisor, and trust accounts; advanced features & reporting |
| CFD account | ❌ | Not available to Canadian residents (CFDs restricted by regulation) |
| Classic securities account | ✅ | Access to stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, options, and futures |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto staking or yield products |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Crypto held via Paxos partner; no direct wallet or cold storage |
| Tax-advantaged account | ✅ | TFSA, RRSP, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF (registered Canadian accounts) |
| Accepted base currencies | 24 currencies (CAD, USD, EUR, GBP, JPY, etc.) | Multi-currency accounts for global trading |
Trip
If you want to explore Interactive Brokers’ sophisticated tools, start with a TFSA or a paper trading account to familiarize yourself—then upgrade to margin or professional accounts as your needs evolve. Always enable two-factor authentication for the best account security.
Interactive Brokers vs. Competitors
| Feature | Interactive Brokers | OANDA | FXCM | CIBC Investor's Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 CAD | $50 CAD ($5,000 account min.) | $0 CAD | |
| Number of instruments | 68+ FX pairs, indices, commodities, crypto CFDs | FX pairs, indices, stock CFDs, crypto CFDs | Stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds | |
| Spreads (examples) | Forex from 0.6 pips (EUR/USD), spread-only | Forex from 1.3 pips (EUR/USD), spread-only | Not applicable (no Forex/CFDs) | |
| Trading platforms | OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, APIs | Trading Station, MT4, NinjaTrader | Web platform, Mobile app | |
| Regulation | IIROC, CIPF | IIROC, CIPF | IIROC, CIPF | |
| Demo account | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Read the review | Read the review OANDA | Read the review FXCM | Read the review CIBC Investor's Edge |
Customer reviews
Interactive Brokers has a Trustpilot rating of 3.6 out of 5, based on over 2,000 reviews as of July 2025. Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Extremely low commissions and tight spreads on stocks and forex
- Wide range of tradable assets, including global stocks, options, futures, and cryptocurrencies
- Advanced trading tools and analytics (Trader Workstation, mobile apps, APIs)
- Access to over 150 world markets and 24 currencies
- Responsive customer service available in Canada
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Complex and steep learning curve, especially for the Trader Workstation platform
- Account onboarding and verification can be lengthy for some applicants
- Interface may feel overwhelming or confusing for beginners
- Direct customer support wait times can be inconsistent
- No demo (paper trading) account access unless the account is funded
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
- L.S. – 12/06/2025 : “IBKR offers the lowest commissions I’ve found, and the platform is very powerful, but it can be overwhelming for beginners.”
- D.T. – 28/04/2025 : “Customer service is responsive, but the account verification process took longer than expected.”
- S.M. – 05/03/2025 : “Great for active traders and investors who want access to global markets, but the interface could be more user-friendly.”
FAQ
Is Interactive Brokers regulated in CA?
Yes, Interactive Brokers is fully regulated in Canada. The platform operates under IIROC oversight and is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), offering regulatory protection for Canadian users and meeting the highest compliance standards.
What is the minimum deposit on Interactive Brokers?
Most account types with Interactive Brokers do not require a minimum deposit. However, if you want to open a margin account and use leverage, you must deposit at least $2,000 CAD to meet regulatory and platform requirements.
Does Interactive Brokers offer a welcome bonus?
Interactive Brokers generally does not offer a standard welcome bonus or sign-up reward for Canadian clients. Promotional offers may appear occasionally, but there is no ongoing welcome bonus as part of the account opening process.
How does leverage work on Interactive Brokers?
Leverage is available through margin accounts. For Canadian stock trading, leverage is typically up to 2:1 (50% margin); for forex, leverage can be up to 40:1 for major pairs, though actual limits depend on asset class and IIROC rules. No leverage is available for direct crypto trades.
How does Interactive Brokers make money?
Interactive Brokers earns revenue from trading commissions, spreads (especially on forex), currency conversion fees, interest on margin loans, and a small set of account-related fees. Their direct-crypto trades are commission-based, and they do not charge inactivity or account maintenance fees for Canadian residents.
Who is behind Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers was founded by Thomas Peterffy in 1978 and is now a leading global brokerage with public listing on the NASDAQ (IBKR). The company operates internationally with headquarters in the United States and licensed subsidiaries in Canada.
When was Interactive Brokers launched?
Interactive Brokers was established in 1978, introducing electronic brokerage services throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The Canadian arm has served local investors for many years and remains trusted globally.
Does Interactive Brokers offer copy trading or social trading?
Interactive Brokers does not offer built-in copy trading or social trading features for Canadian retail clients. All trading must be conducted independently or via self-created automated strategies using their APIs.
How can I contact Interactive Brokers’s customer service?
You can contact Interactive Brokers customer support by phone (with dedicated numbers for Canada), email, secure messaging through the Client Portal, or using live chat during business hours. Support is available 24 hours, Monday to Friday, with local Canadian agents from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm ET.
Does Interactive Brokers offer any promotions or referral programs?
While Interactive Brokers occasionally runs referral programs for select clients, there is no ongoing referral or cashback scheme available for the general Canadian audience. You can check their website or Client Portal for updates on current promotional offers.
Is Interactive Brokers regulated in CA?
Yes, Interactive Brokers is fully regulated in Canada. The platform operates under IIROC oversight and is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), offering regulatory protection for Canadian users and meeting the highest compliance standards.
What is the minimum deposit on Interactive Brokers?
Most account types with Interactive Brokers do not require a minimum deposit. However, if you want to open a margin account and use leverage, you must deposit at least $2,000 CAD to meet regulatory and platform requirements.
Does Interactive Brokers offer a welcome bonus?
Interactive Brokers generally does not offer a standard welcome bonus or sign-up reward for Canadian clients. Promotional offers may appear occasionally, but there is no ongoing welcome bonus as part of the account opening process.
How does leverage work on Interactive Brokers?
Leverage is available through margin accounts. For Canadian stock trading, leverage is typically up to 2:1 (50% margin); for forex, leverage can be up to 40:1 for major pairs, though actual limits depend on asset class and IIROC rules. No leverage is available for direct crypto trades.
How does Interactive Brokers make money?
Interactive Brokers earns revenue from trading commissions, spreads (especially on forex), currency conversion fees, interest on margin loans, and a small set of account-related fees. Their direct-crypto trades are commission-based, and they do not charge inactivity or account maintenance fees for Canadian residents.
Who is behind Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers was founded by Thomas Peterffy in 1978 and is now a leading global brokerage with public listing on the NASDAQ (IBKR). The company operates internationally with headquarters in the United States and licensed subsidiaries in Canada.
When was Interactive Brokers launched?
Interactive Brokers was established in 1978, introducing electronic brokerage services throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The Canadian arm has served local investors for many years and remains trusted globally.
Does Interactive Brokers offer copy trading or social trading?
Interactive Brokers does not offer built-in copy trading or social trading features for Canadian retail clients. All trading must be conducted independently or via self-created automated strategies using their APIs.
How can I contact Interactive Brokers’s customer service?
You can contact Interactive Brokers customer support by phone (with dedicated numbers for Canada), email, secure messaging through the Client Portal, or using live chat during business hours. Support is available 24 hours, Monday to Friday, with local Canadian agents from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm ET.
Does Interactive Brokers offer any promotions or referral programs?
While Interactive Brokers occasionally runs referral programs for select clients, there is no ongoing referral or cashback scheme available for the general Canadian audience. You can check their website or Client Portal for updates on current promotional offers.
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