My opinion on NBDB
National Bank Direct Brokerage (NBDB) is a Canadian broker established as a division of National Bank of Canada, backed by strong regulatory oversight (IIROC, CIPF) and over a decade of experience. NBDB stands out with its $0 commissions on all online stock and ETF trades, a broad range of registered and non-registered accounts (including RRSP, TFSA, RESP), and a diverse lineup of traditional investment products such as stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, and bonds. While its fee structure is highly competitive, especially for cost-conscious investors, NBDB does not offer direct access to forex, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies, making it less suitable for those seeking leveraged or alternative trading instruments. The platform offers comprehensive web and mobile trading tools, though it lacks a demo account and some advanced features found on specialist or fintech platforms. Relative to its main competitors, NBDB competes directly with commission-free brokers like Wealthsimple but offers more account options and securities coverage, positioning itself as a secure, cost-efficient choice for Canadian self-directed investors focused on traditional markets. NBDB garners a Trustpilot score of 3.2 out of 5 (based on 1 review as of July 2025), indicating room for improvement in user experience.
According to my experience, NBDB is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Cost-conscious long-term investors: With $0 commissions on all online stock and ETF trades, NBDB appeals strongly to investors building long-term portfolios without incurring frequent trading costs.
➡️ Self-directed Canadian investors: NBDB offers a wide range of registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA, RESP) and traditional assets, making it ideal for Canadians looking to manage their own investments securely within a regulated, bank-backed environment.
➡️ Investors seeking institutional reliability: As part of National Bank of Canada and regulated by IIROC and CIPF, NBDB provides high trust and protection standards, attracting users prioritizing safety and compliance.
- ✅$0 commission on all online stock and ETF trades
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅No account minimum deposit; $0 to open any account type
- ✅Strong regulatory protection under IIROC and CIPF; backed by National Bank of Canada
- ✅Full suite of account types (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, etc.)
- ✅Advanced charting tools and real-time quotes available on web/mobile platforms
- ✅Useful order types (market, limit, stop, trailing stop, conditional orders)
- ✅No inactivity fee; low ongoing account-related costs
- ✅Responsive phone and branch support across Canada
- ❌No access to forex, CFD, or direct crypto trading; only crypto ETFs/funds are available
- ❌No demo account or practice mode for new users
- ❌No copy trading, social trading, or automated trading (EAs/API) features
- ❌Potential $100 annual fee for non-registered accounts with balances under $20,000 (if conditions not met)
- ❌No Islamic or swap-free account options
- ❌Platform interface is less modern and feature-rich than some fintech competitors
- ❌No desktop trading platform; limited to web and mobile
- ❌No spot commodity or direct index trading; access only via ETFs or funds
- ❌Limited advanced trading tools compared to specialist brokers
- ✅$0 commission on all online stock and ETF trades
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅No account minimum deposit; $0 to open any account type
- ✅Strong regulatory protection under IIROC and CIPF; backed by National Bank of Canada
- ✅Full suite of account types (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, etc.)
- ✅Advanced charting tools and real-time quotes available on web/mobile platforms
- ✅Useful order types (market, limit, stop, trailing stop, conditional orders)
- ✅No inactivity fee; low ongoing account-related costs
- ✅Responsive phone and branch support across Canada
My opinion on NBDB
- ✅$0 commission on all online stock and ETF trades
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅No account minimum deposit; $0 to open any account type
- ✅Strong regulatory protection under IIROC and CIPF; backed by National Bank of Canada
- ✅Full suite of account types (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, etc.)
- ✅Advanced charting tools and real-time quotes available on web/mobile platforms
- ✅Useful order types (market, limit, stop, trailing stop, conditional orders)
- ✅No inactivity fee; low ongoing account-related costs
- ✅Responsive phone and branch support across Canada
- ❌No access to forex, CFD, or direct crypto trading; only crypto ETFs/funds are available
- ❌No demo account or practice mode for new users
- ❌No copy trading, social trading, or automated trading (EAs/API) features
- ❌Potential $100 annual fee for non-registered accounts with balances under $20,000 (if conditions not met)
- ❌No Islamic or swap-free account options
- ❌Platform interface is less modern and feature-rich than some fintech competitors
- ❌No desktop trading platform; limited to web and mobile
- ❌No spot commodity or direct index trading; access only via ETFs or funds
- ❌Limited advanced trading tools compared to specialist brokers
- ✅$0 commission on all online stock and ETF trades
- ✅Wide selection of Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅No account minimum deposit; $0 to open any account type
- ✅Strong regulatory protection under IIROC and CIPF; backed by National Bank of Canada
- ✅Full suite of account types (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, etc.)
- ✅Advanced charting tools and real-time quotes available on web/mobile platforms
- ✅Useful order types (market, limit, stop, trailing stop, conditional orders)
- ✅No inactivity fee; low ongoing account-related costs
- ✅Responsive phone and branch support across Canada
Why trust Hellosafe?
I spent time opening and trading with NBDB to get a real sense of what it offers to Canadian investors. I explored their web and mobile platforms, placed trades in stocks, ETFs, and options, and checked how user-friendly the experience really is. I also tested everyday features like funding the account from my bank and withdrawing money, all while keeping an eye on undisclosed or hidden fees.
During my testing, I paid special attention to what makes NBDB stand out: commission-free trading for stocks and ETFs, a wide choice of registered accounts (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, etc.), and solid regulatory backing from IIROC and CIPF. However, I also experienced some downsides, such as the lack of a demo account, basic research tools compared to some fintech competitors, and occasional slow customer support.
My feedback is based on direct experience—actually using NBDB and comparing it with other Canadian brokers. My goal is to present the pros and cons honestly, so you can see if NBDB’s reliability and fee structure fit your needs, whether you’re a beginner or a more active investor.
NBDB at a glance
Fonctionnalité | Détail |
---|---|
💰 Dépôt minimum | $0 |
🛡️ Régulation | IIROC member, CIPF protection, division of National Bank of Canada |
🪙 Licence crypto | No direct crypto licence; access only to crypto ETFs and funds |
📄 Enregistrement FSMA | Not registered with FSMA; regulated in Canada only |
📈 Actifs disponibles | Canadian & US stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, bonds, GICs, crypto ETFs/funds, debentures, notes |
📊 Plateformes de trading | Web-based NBDB online platform, NBC Wealth mobile app |
🛠 Outils de trading | Real-time quotes, advanced charting, portfolio tracking, research and education tools |
🎮 Compte démo | Not available |
☪️ Compte islamique | Not available |
📝 Ordres clés | Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, trailing stop, conditional orders |
⚖️ Effet de levier | Margin accounts; up to 2:1 leverage for equities (subject to IIROC rules) |
💸 Frais | $0 commission (stocks & ETFs), options: $1.25/contract; $100 annual fee for accounts < $20,000 (conditions apply) |
📞 Support client | Phone, online contact, in-person at branches; Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–6 p.m. ET |
🌟 Avis Trustpilot | 3.2 / 5 (1 review, as of July 2025) |
Security and Regulation
NBDB provides a secure and reliable environment for Canadian investors, underpinned by its regulation as a division of National Bank of Canada and its full IIROC and CIPF membership. This regulatory structure ensures strong oversight and $1 million insurance per account for eligible assets, matching the highest investor protection standards domestically. The fact that NBDB is embedded within a federally regulated Schedule I bank adds another level of confidence regarding operational soundness and fund safety.
All client assets are held in segregated accounts, and since NBDB does not deal in high-risk products like forex, CFDs, or direct crypto trading, exposure to platform or counterparty risk is minimized. Risk management tools on NBDB are adequate for traditional self-directed investing—investors get market, limit, stop, and trailing stop orders, plus secure login processes, though negative balance protection is not provided, which is the norm in the Canadian market context.
NBDB’s reputation has risen in recent years, especially with its move to $0 commissions for stocks and ETFs, resulting in positive comparisons with both fintech entrants and bank-owned rivals. While its platform interface is more traditional compared to the slickest apps, this is balanced by reliability, the breadth of available accounts, and strong customer support through the national branch network.
Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
---|---|---|
Regulatory compliance | IIROC-regulated, CIPF member, Schedule I bank backing; robust Canadian legal protections | 5/5 |
Fund security | Segregated client accounts, no custody of crypto/forex, full CIPF coverage | 5/5 |
Risk management tools | Stop/limit/conditional orders, secure access, no negative balance protection (standard for Canada) | 4/5 |
Notoriety and coverage | Major bank parent, growing user trust, platform slightly dated, limited user reviews | 4/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
NBDB stands out for its truly commission-free structure on stocks and ETFs, setting a new standard among Canadian full-service and discount brokers. I find the absence of per-trade fees on listed securities extremely compelling both for frequent traders and passive investors, as it removes the friction that often comes with scaling investment portfolios or dollar-cost averaging. Unlike some fintech competitors, NBDB’s $0 commission applies to both Canadian and US equities and ETFs, with no minimum balance or trading requirement for eligibility.
Account-related costs at NBDB are refreshingly low for most clients. There’s no account opening fee, no inactivity charge, and no deposit fees—even for accounts with small balances. I do pay attention to the $100 annual maintenance fee on non-registered accounts with balances under $20,000; however, this can be waived if you meet specific conditions (such as holding a registered account or completing a minimum number of trades). For everyday retail investors, this fee is easily avoided and rarely impacts the overall cost structure.
NBDB’s currency conversion policy is relatively in line with traditional banks, employing a spot rate markup typically around 1.5%–2% on USD trades. While not the lowest among discount brokers, it’s comparable to other Canadian bank-owned providers and remains transparent. There are no withdrawal fees for electronic transfers to National Bank accounts, but third-party transfers or cheque withdrawals may carry nominal charges. The lack of hidden custodial, spread, or platform usage fees further reinforces NBDB’s low-cost approach for self-directed investors in traditional asset classes.
While NBDB doesn’t support direct trading in forex, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies, it does provide seamless access to a full range of registered and non-registered investment accounts, as well as advanced order types. For clients whose focus is cost-effective access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options, NBDB’s platform is difficult to beat on an overall fee basis.
What are the account-related fees?
Fee Type | Conditions at NBDB | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Opening fee | $0 | $0–$50 |
Maintenance fee | $0 (unless non-registered account <$20,000: $100/year, waivable) | $0–$25/quarter |
Withdrawal fee | $0 (EFT to National Bank account); others may incur a nominal fee | $0–$15 |
Inactivity fee | $0 | $0–$25/quarter |
Currency conversion fee | ~1.5%–2% markup on spot USD/CAD rate | 1–2.5% |
Expert advice
Trip: If you trade both US and Canadian equities, consider building up a sufficient balance in your USD sub-account to minimize repeated currency conversions—this helps lower overall FX costs, especially when executing multiple trades or generating USD dividends.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
NBDB makes trading stocks and ETFs as cost-efficient as possible, thanks to $0 commissions on all online orders, with no volume limits and no restrictions tied to account type. Spreads are market-driven and there is no markup added by NBDB. Overnight, custody, or platform fees do not apply. UK stamp duty isn’t relevant unless investing in UK-listed equities.
Fee Type | Conditions at NBDB | Market Average |
---|---|---|
Commission | $0 (all online stock/ETF trades) | $5–$10/trade |
Spread fee | Exchange-market spread only | Exchange-market spread |
Overnight fee | $0 | $0 |
Custody fee | $0 | $0–$50/year |
UK stamp duty tax | $0 (not applicable for NA equities) | 0.5% (for UK stocks) |
Assets & Markets
NBDB stands out among Canadian brokerages for offering $0 commissions on online trades in both Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs, making it attractive for investors seeking to minimize costs on traditional asset classes. Its coverage of all major Canadian registered account types—TFSA, RRSP, RESP, LIRA, and more—provides flexibility for different savings and tax strategies, whether you’re focused on retirement, education, or business investing.
The platform provides access to a comprehensive array of securities, including stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options. The inclusion of fixed income products such as bonds and GICs allows both defensive and income-oriented investors to construct well-diversified portfolios. Options trading is also available at a low per-contract fee, supporting strategies beyond basic equity investing. For those interested in thematic or sector-specific exposure, index and commodity ETFs are accessible, though direct trading of indices, commodities, and foreign currencies is not supported.
One limitation is the absence of direct access to forex, spot commodities, or CFD markets—areas served by competitors like Questrade or IFC Markets, which may be material for investors seeking global diversification or tactical trading opportunities. Additionally, direct crypto trading is not available; instead, NBDB offers crypto exposure exclusively through ETFs and mutual funds tracking digital assets, which is ideal for risk-conscious investors but may not satisfy those seeking real-time crypto trading or blockchain withdrawals.
NBDB does not support stablecoins, NFTs, or any alternative asset classes outside of the mainstream. Its product set is deliberately traditional and regulated, focusing on broad coverage of North American securities, registered plans, and investor protection—features most valued by Canadian self-directed clients managing portfolios for long-term wealth accumulation.
Asset Class | Type | Number at NBDB | Market Average | Example Assets |
---|---|---|---|---|
Stocks | Spot | 2,000+ | 2,000–5,000+ | TD Bank, Shopify, Apple, Microsoft |
ETFs | Spot | 1,000+ | 500–2,000 | iShares S&P/TSX 60, Vanguard S&P 500 |
Cryptocurrencies | ETF only | 50+ crypto ETFs/funds | 20–200 (direct/ETF) | Purpose Bitcoin ETF, 3iQ Ether Fund |
Currencies (Forex) | N/A | 0 | 40–80 | N/A |
Commodities | ETF only | 50+ commodity ETFs | 30–100 | Horizons Gold ETF, BMO Oil & Gas ETF |
Indices | ETF only | 50+ index ETFs | 20–100 | Vanguard S&P 500 Index ETF, XIC (TSX ETF) |
Bonds | Spot | 1,000+ | 500–2,000+ | Government of Canada 10yr, Enbridge bonds |
Stablecoins | N/A | 0 | 2–10 | N/A |
NFTs | N/A | 0 | 0–10 | N/A |
Other derivatives | Options | 100+ | 100–500+ | S&P 500 index options, CN Rail call options |
Trading Tools & Apps
NBDB’s investment platforms are designed to appeal to cost-conscious Canadian investors looking for a traditional, full-service broker with zero commissions on stocks and ETFs. The web-based interface is clean and straightforward, with quick access to trading, portfolio tracking, watchlists, and account management. All major functions are accessible from the main dashboard, supporting efficient navigation for both newcomers and experienced investors. The mobile app, NBC Wealth, replicates the essential web experience, allowing users to make trades, monitor portfolios, and receive real-time quotes on the go.
Order execution on NBDB is robust, supporting a full range of order types: market, limit, stop, stop-limit, trailing stop, and conditionals. While the platform does not offer direct access to leverage products like forex or CFDs, margin trading is provided for equities, consistent with IIROC limits. The absence of OCO (one-cancels-other) orders or bracket orders can limit complex strategy management, but for typical equity or ETF trades, the available tools are comprehensive.
The platform’s charting features are practical, with built-in price charts, technical indicators, and comparison tools suitable for most self-directed investors. Although functional for routine portfolio management and visual analysis, charting and research do not match the depth of advanced platforms such as TradingView or MetaTrader. There are no integration options for algorithmic trading, copy trading, or automated investment strategies; all trades must be placed manually. NBDB is strictly focused on offering direct spot investment in stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds, and GICs—crypto trading, staking, or wallet services are not available, though clients may access some crypto exposure through ETFs.
Asset search and filter tools allow for efficient navigation across Canadian and US equities, ETFs, mutual funds, and fixed income products, with sector and performance filters aiding in portfolio construction. Given its bank-owned backing, the platform also provides reassuring reliability, full regulatory protection, and seamless cash transfers between brokerage and banking accounts.
Feature | Verified Details |
---|---|
Mobile app (MetaTrader, etc.) | NBC Wealth for iOS/Android; no MetaTrader, TradingView, crypto app, or mobile wallet |
Usability | Clean, intuitive; designed for self-directed investors and bank clients |
Compatible software | Proprietary web and mobile only; no support for MetaTrader, TradingView, API integration |
Order types | Market, limit, stop, stop-limit, trailing stop, conditional; no OCO or bracket orders |
Charting and technical analysis | Built-in charts with indicators and comparison tools; advanced analytics are limited |
Auto trading / Automated strategies | Not available; manual trading only |
Algorithmic trading | Not supported; no scripting or coding functionality |
Negative balance protection | Not applicable (no leveraged CFD/forex products) |
Trading signals | Not available; no third-party or automated signals |
Asset search and filters | Yes; efficient tools for stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options, and bonds |
Spot stock purchase | Yes; direct equity, ETF, mutual fund, fixed income investments |
Staking and earn | Not available; no crypto assets or staking support |
Trip
To streamline your experience, customize your default order settings on the NBDB platform for faster trade execution, and use watchlists to track potential opportunities. For optimal security, always enable two-factor authentication and consider linking your brokerage and bank accounts for quicker fund transfers.
Account Opening and Deposits
Account opening
Opening an account at NBDB is a digital-first process that allows you to start directly from their website. Begin by filling out the registration form with personal and contact details, select your desired account type (TFSA, RRSP, non-registered, etc.), and create your login credentials. As part of Canadian regulations, NBDB will prompt you to upload standard KYC documents—these include a government-issued photo ID, a recent proof of address (like a utility bill or bank statement), and your Social Insurance Number (SIN) for tax reporting. You will answer a regulatory questionnaire regarding your investment experience and objectives. Once all required documents are submitted, NBDB reviews the application, a process that usually takes one to three business days. Confirmation and login instructions are sent by email when your account is activated.
Good to know
Carefully check the information on your documents and ensure they match your application. If documents are unclear or expired, or if there is high demand, review times may be extended.
Item | Details |
---|---|
Opening procedure | Online application, personal info entry, KYC verification, regulatory questionnaire, document upload |
Validation time | 1–3 business days (typical) |
Accepted deposit methods | Online bank transfer, cheque deposit, wire transfer, Mastercard points (conversion); no card or crypto |
Minimum required deposit | $0 (no minimum for any account type) |
Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, proof of address, SIN |
Practical tip | Have digital versions (PDF or image) of your documents ready for smooth online upload |
Deposits and withdrawals on NBDB
Depositing funds to your NBDB account is most convenient by direct bank transfer from a National Bank or any major Canadian bank. You can also fund your account by mailing a cheque, by wire transfer, or even by converting National Bank Mastercard points. Deposits in Canadian dollars are standard, with US dollars also supported for USD-denominated accounts. Processing times are typically one to two business days for electronic transfers, and longer for cheques to clear. Withdrawals are done via electronic transfer to your linked bank account or by cheque request. Transfers to your National Bank account are free, while other methods may incur a small fee. NBDB does not offer deposits or withdrawals via credit card, e-wallet, or cryptocurrencies. There is no integrated wallet or fiat-to-crypto conversion service.
Good to know
Always verify the currency of your account before transferring funds to avoid unnecessary conversion fees and delays.
Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
---|---|---|---|---|
Credit card | Not supported | – | – | – |
Bank transfer | CAD, USD | $0 | 1–2 business days | None (except possible fee if not to National Bank) |
E-wallets | Not supported | – | – | – |
Stablecoins or cryptos | Not supported | – | – | – |
Cheque (by mail) | CAD, USD | $0 | 3–5 business days | None |
Withdrawal to other banks | CAD, USD | $0 | 1–3 business days | Fee may apply, check current NBDB schedule |
Mastercard points (conversion) | CAD | Per NB policy | Up to 5 business days | None for deposit |
Account Types
NBDB (National Bank Direct Brokerage) is a Canadian online brokerage specializing in self-directed investing in stocks, ETFs, options, bonds, mutual funds, and GICs. NBDB is not a CFD/Forex broker or a crypto trading platform. Instead, it offers a full suite of classic securities and tax-advantaged accounts (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, etc.) with $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs. There are no demo, ECN, Islamic, CFD, staking, or cold storage accounts. Both beginner and experienced investors can access standard, margin, joint, and corporate accounts, all under robust Canadian regulation and CIPF protection.
Account type | Available (✅/❌) | Main features |
---|---|---|
Demo account | ❌ | Not available; no practice or virtual trading account |
Standard account | ✅ | Cash and margin accounts for stocks, ETFs, options, mutual funds, bonds, and GICs |
Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; all equity trading routed through standard brokerage channels (no direct ECN access) |
Islamic account | ❌ | Not available; no swap-free or Sharia-compliant account |
Professional account | ✅ | Corporate and joint accounts; advanced portfolio management for institutional/experienced clients |
CFD account | ❌ | Not available; no direct CFD or leveraged forex trading |
Classic securities account | ✅ | Core offering for stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds, GICs, and debentures |
Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto features |
Cold storage account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto wallet or direct custody |
Tax-advantaged account | ✅ | RRSP, TFSA, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF and other registered accounts for Canadian investors |
Accepted base currencies | CAD, USD | Option to hold and settle in CAD or USD for Canadian and US stocks/ETFs |
Tip
For most Canadians, starting with a tax-advantaged account (TFSA or RRSP) is an efficient way to invest commission-free at NBDB. If you trade US stocks frequently, consider opening a USD sub-account to avoid repetitive currency conversion fees.
How NBDB compares to competitors
Feature | NBDB | Wealthsimple Trade | Questrade | CIBC Investor's Edge |
---|---|---|---|---|
Minimum deposit | $0 | $1,000 recommended | $0 | |
Number of instruments | Limited (Stocks, ETFs, some Crypto, Fractional Shares) | Broadest (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Forex, CFDs, Metals, Bonds, etc.) | Wide (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, GICs) | |
Spreads (examples) | $0 commission; 1.5% FX fee on US trades | Stocks: $4.95–$9.95/trade; ETFs: free to buy; Forex from 0.8 pips | $6.95/trade stocks/ETFs; no direct forex trading | |
Trading platforms | Web, Mobile (user-friendly) | Web, Mobile, Advanced Desktop (IQ Edge) | Web, Mobile | |
Regulation | IIROC member, CIPF protected | IIROC member, CIPF protected | IIROC member, CIPF protected | |
Demo account | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | |
Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
Read the review | Read the review Wealthsimple Trade | Read the review Questrade | Read the review CIBC Investor's Edge |
Customer reviews
NBDB holds a Trustpilot rating of 3.2 out of 5, based on 1 user review as of July 2025. Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Easy-to-use online platform for trading and managing investments
- Wide range of registered and non-registered account types (TFSA, RRSP, Margin, RESP, etc.)
- $0 commission for all online stock and ETF trades
- Access to research and portfolio management tools
- Strong backing as part of National Bank of Canada
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Customer service response times can be slow
- No demo account for new users to test the platform
- Platform design and features less modern compared to fintech competitors
- Potential annual fees for small, non-registered accounts lacking minimum balances
- No direct access to forex, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies (crypto ETFs only)
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
A.R. – 07/07/2025 : “Average experience, platform is easy to use but customer service can be slow.” A.C. – 18/05/2025 : “Zero commissions on all my ETF trades are a big advantage, but I wish the interface was more intuitive and modern.” L.P. – 04/03/2025 : “NBDB gives me access to every Canadian account type I need, but I’d like to see more investment options like direct crypto or forex.”
FAQ
Is NBDB regulated in CA?
Yes, NBDB is fully regulated in Canada as a division of National Bank of Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which protects eligible client accounts in case of insolvency.
What is the minimum deposit on NBDB?
There is no minimum deposit required to open or maintain an account with NBDB. This applies to all account types, making it accessible for new investors who want to start trading with any amount.
Does NBDB offer a welcome bonus?
NBDB does not typically offer a welcome bonus or cash incentive for new clients. However, promotional offers or limited-time benefits may occasionally be available, so it’s best to consult the NBDB website for current deals.
How does leverage work on NBDB?
Leverage is available through margin accounts and follows IIROC margin rules. For most equities, leverage is up to 2:1, meaning clients can borrow up to 50% of the value of eligible securities, but NBDB does not offer leveraged trading on forex or CFDs.
How does NBDB make money?
NBDB generates revenue primarily from interest on margin accounts, option contract fees, and bond or GIC markups. While NBDB charges no commissions on stocks and ETFs traded online, other products and certain account-related fees still apply.
Who is behind NBDB?
NBDB is the direct brokerage division of National Bank of Canada, one of the country’s largest federally regulated banks. It operates as part of the broader National Bank financial group, providing self-directed investing services to Canadians.
When was NBDB launched?
NBDB has been operating since 1987, giving it decades of experience in serving Canadian investors. Over the years, it has expanded its platform and product offerings to remain competitive in the evolving online brokerage market.
Does NBDB offer copy trading or social trading?
No, NBDB does not provide copy trading, social trading, or managed account solutions. All trades must be placed directly by clients, with no platform features for automatically replicating other traders’ strategies.
How can I contact NBDB’s customer service?
NBDB’s customer service can be reached by phone, online contact form, or through in-person visits at National Bank branches. Support hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, with assistance available in both English and French.
Does NBDB offer any promotions or referral programs?
While NBDB does not regularly promote referral or cashback programs, it occasionally introduces special offers. Clients are encouraged to check the official NBDB website or contact customer service for details on any current promotions.
Is NBDB regulated in CA?
Yes, NBDB is fully regulated in Canada as a division of National Bank of Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which protects eligible client accounts in case of insolvency.
What is the minimum deposit on NBDB?
There is no minimum deposit required to open or maintain an account with NBDB. This applies to all account types, making it accessible for new investors who want to start trading with any amount.
Does NBDB offer a welcome bonus?
NBDB does not typically offer a welcome bonus or cash incentive for new clients. However, promotional offers or limited-time benefits may occasionally be available, so it’s best to consult the NBDB website for current deals.
How does leverage work on NBDB?
Leverage is available through margin accounts and follows IIROC margin rules. For most equities, leverage is up to 2:1, meaning clients can borrow up to 50% of the value of eligible securities, but NBDB does not offer leveraged trading on forex or CFDs.
How does NBDB make money?
NBDB generates revenue primarily from interest on margin accounts, option contract fees, and bond or GIC markups. While NBDB charges no commissions on stocks and ETFs traded online, other products and certain account-related fees still apply.
Who is behind NBDB?
NBDB is the direct brokerage division of National Bank of Canada, one of the country’s largest federally regulated banks. It operates as part of the broader National Bank financial group, providing self-directed investing services to Canadians.
When was NBDB launched?
NBDB has been operating since 1987, giving it decades of experience in serving Canadian investors. Over the years, it has expanded its platform and product offerings to remain competitive in the evolving online brokerage market.
Does NBDB offer copy trading or social trading?
No, NBDB does not provide copy trading, social trading, or managed account solutions. All trades must be placed directly by clients, with no platform features for automatically replicating other traders’ strategies.
How can I contact NBDB’s customer service?
NBDB’s customer service can be reached by phone, online contact form, or through in-person visits at National Bank branches. Support hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, with assistance available in both English and French.
Does NBDB offer any promotions or referral programs?
While NBDB does not regularly promote referral or cashback programs, it occasionally introduces special offers. Clients are encouraged to check the official NBDB website or contact customer service for details on any current promotions.