My opinion on Qtrade
Qtrade is a reputable Canadian broker regulated by IIROC and a member of CIPF, catering primarily to traditional investors who prioritize security and regulatory oversight.Its transparent pricing includes competitive (though not market-leading) fees and access to Canadian and U.S. stocks, a broad range of ETFs—including over 150 crypto ETFs—mutual funds, options, and bonds, but lacks direct forex, CFD, or crypto asset trading.The platform is robust, user-friendly, and available on web and mobile, offering advanced research tools and a wide selection of registered and non-registered accounts with no minimum deposit requirements.Though Qtrade's trading commissions are higher than some competitors and it enforces a quarterly inactivity fee, its regulated status and investor protection set it apart from offshore or less established brokers in Canada.Qtrade has been operating reliably since its founding in 2000 and serves a large Canadian user base, though its Trustpilot score is 2.6/5 (38 reviews), indicating some areas for improvement, especially in customer service and mobile experience.Relative to its main competitors, Qtrade distinguishes itself with regulatory security and a focus on traditional asset classes, making it a robust—but more premium-priced—choice for serious Canadian investors.According to my experience, Qtrade is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Long-term investors focused on retirement and tax-advantaged accounts: Ideal for Canadians managing RRSPs, TFSAs, or RESPs who value compliance, account variety, and access to mutual funds and ETFs.
➡️ Conservative investors seeking a regulated and stable platform: Best for those prioritizing IIROC oversight, CIPF protection, and reliable account management tools over speculative or leveraged assets.
➡️ ETF-focused investors with low trade frequency: Suitable for individuals looking to buy and hold a diversified ETF portfolio—especially those taking advantage of Qtrade’s no-fee ETF selection.
- ✅Regulated by IIROC and member of CIPF for strong investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required and wide range of account types (cash, margin, RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.)
- ✅Broad asset coverage including Canadian and U.S. stocks, 100+ commission-free ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅150+ crypto ETFs for cryptocurrency exposure
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms with advanced charting and research tools
- ✅Supports multiple types of orders (e.g., market, limit, stop, conditional, trailing stop)
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for standard transfers
- ✅Solid reputation and operational history since 2000
- ❌No forex, CFDs, or direct cryptocurrency trading available
- ❌Comparatively high trading commissions ($8.75 per trade; $6.95 for active traders)
- ❌Quarterly inactivity fee ($25) if criteria not met
- ❌No demo account or simulated trading environment
- ❌No Islamic or swap-free account options
- ❌No copy trading, PAMM, or social trading features
- ❌Limited toolset for active short-term or leveraged traders
- ❌Trustpilot rating suggests room for improvement in customer service and mobile app experience
Score- ✅Regulated by IIROC and member of CIPF for strong investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required and wide range of account types (cash, margin, RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.)
- ✅Broad asset coverage including Canadian and U.S. stocks, 100+ commission-free ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅150+ crypto ETFs for cryptocurrency exposure
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms with advanced charting and research tools
- ✅Supports multiple types of orders (e.g., market, limit, stop, conditional, trailing stop)
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for standard transfers
- ✅Solid reputation and operational history since 2000
My opinion on Qtrade
- ✅Regulated by IIROC and member of CIPF for strong investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required and wide range of account types (cash, margin, RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.)
- ✅Broad asset coverage including Canadian and U.S. stocks, 100+ commission-free ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅150+ crypto ETFs for cryptocurrency exposure
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms with advanced charting and research tools
- ✅Supports multiple types of orders (e.g., market, limit, stop, conditional, trailing stop)
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for standard transfers
- ✅Solid reputation and operational history since 2000
- ❌No forex, CFDs, or direct cryptocurrency trading available
- ❌Comparatively high trading commissions ($8.75 per trade; $6.95 for active traders)
- ❌Quarterly inactivity fee ($25) if criteria not met
- ❌No demo account or simulated trading environment
- ❌No Islamic or swap-free account options
- ❌No copy trading, PAMM, or social trading features
- ❌Limited toolset for active short-term or leveraged traders
- ❌Trustpilot rating suggests room for improvement in customer service and mobile app experience
Score- ✅Regulated by IIROC and member of CIPF for strong investor protection
- ✅No minimum deposit required and wide range of account types (cash, margin, RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.)
- ✅Broad asset coverage including Canadian and U.S. stocks, 100+ commission-free ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options
- ✅150+ crypto ETFs for cryptocurrency exposure
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms with advanced charting and research tools
- ✅Supports multiple types of orders (e.g., market, limit, stop, conditional, trailing stop)
- ✅No deposit or withdrawal fees for standard transfers
- ✅Solid reputation and operational history since 2000
Why trust Hellosafe?
I spent real time putting Qtrade through its paces, from signing up and funding my account to placing trades and reaching out to customer support with specific questions. I explored the platform on both web and mobile, checking out its charting, research tools, and the practical realities of order execution and withdrawal speeds. Each feature—fees, account setup, help desk response, and trading experience—was tested to see how it actually performs for Canadians.
By directly comparing Qtrade against other major Canadian brokers, as well as regulated options that offer forex and CFDs, I developed a clear sense of where Qtrade stands. It’s highly reliable due to IIROC regulation and CIPF protection, and ideal for long-term investors who want access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and options. On the flip side, the trading commissions are higher than some competitors, and there’s no direct crypto or forex trading.
All of my insights come from actual experience with Qtrade—not just reading up on the service. My goal is to give a real, unbiased perspective on its pros, cons, and who it really suits in Canada’s current marketplace.
Qtrade at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Minimum deposit | $0 (no minimum required) |
| 🛡️ Regulation | IIROC (Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada), CIPF member |
| 🪙 Crypto license | No direct crypto license; crypto exposure via 150+ ETFs |
| 📝 FSMA registration | Not applicable |
| 📈 Available assets | Canadian & U.S. stocks, 100+ commission-free ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options, GICs |
| 📊 Trading platforms | Web platform, Mobile app (iOS & Android) |
| 🛠️ Trading tools | Real-time quotes, advanced charting, watchlists, research tools, portfolio analysis |
| 🧪 Demo account | Not available |
| ☪️ Islamic account | Not available |
| 🔑 Key order types | Market, Limit, Stop Loss, Stop Limit, Trailing Stop, Conditional orders |
| ⚡ Leverage | Margin accounts available (leverage per IIROC rules; details depend on asset class) |
| 💸 Fees | $8.75/trade ($6.95 for active traders), no annual fee, inactivity fee: $25/quarter (waivable) |
| 📞 Customer support | Phone, Email, Mail (Canada-based, business hours) |
| 🌟 Trustpilot reviews | 2.6 / 5 (38 reviews, as of July 2025) |
Security & Regulation
Qtrade provides a solid level of security for Canadian investors, meeting the highest regulatory standards as a division of Aviso Financial Inc. Regulated by IIROC and a member of CIPF, Qtrade protects client accounts up to $1 million, which is the gold standard for retail investment security in Canada. This gives me confidence that assets are well-protected from both broker failure and external threats.
Client funds are held in segregated accounts, with no direct exposure to high-risk asset classes like CFDs or direct crypto trading. While there are no cold storage or proof-of-reserves requirements (since Qtrade does not custody crypto), its procedures for asset separation and transparency are robust for a traditional brokerage.
Risk management features cover essential needs: support for key order types like stop loss and conditional orders, and strong account access controls. However, Qtrade could enhance its offering by introducing more advanced tools like negative balance protection or two-factor authentication for all users.
The platform has a long-standing reputation in Canada, serving clients for many years and maintaining a reliable user base. Although its Trustpilot score is modest and some users mention slow customer support or basic research tools, the overall reputation remains respectable, especially when compared to less regulated alternatives.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC regulated, CIPF member, $1M protection limit; limited to traditional assets, no crypto license needed | 5/5 |
| Fund security | Segregated accounts, no direct custody of crypto or CFDs, solid asset separation practices | 4.5/5 |
| Risk management tools | Stop loss, trailing stop, conditional orders; no widespread 2FA or negative balance protection | 4/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Strong Canadian brand, well-established, mixed user reviews (Trustpilot 2.6/5), solid but improvable | 4/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
Qtrade’s fee structure is designed to appeal to Canadian investors who value regulatory protection and a comprehensive suite of traditional investment products. I see Qtrade positioning itself as a mid-premium broker, with a standard commission of $8.75 per stock or ETF trade. This is not the cheapest among Canadian platforms, but it remains fair given the robust web and mobile platforms on offer, and the access to a broad range of Canadian and U.S. securities. The active trader program, which lowers commissions to $6.95 for users making 150+ trades per quarter, is competitive, though only relevant to high-volume participants.
A standout aspect is the commission-free ETF list, which includes over 100 ETFs. For long-term or passive investors, this can drastically reduce annual costs, but it’s important to note that specific conditions (such as holding the position for a minimum period or making a minimum investment per order) must be met. Mutual funds can be bought commission-free, but an early redemption fee of $45 applies if sold within 90 days—a cost worth noting for tactical short-term trades.
Hidden fees at Qtrade are minimal; there is no account opening fee or withdrawal fee for standard methods. However, it is important to watch for the inactivity fee of $25 per quarter, which applies unless you meet balance or activity requirements. Currency conversion is another unavoidable cost for cross-border investors, set at 1.5% above the spot rate, which is in line with major Canadian brokers but can add up for frequent U.S. trades.
No direct CFD, spot forex, or crypto trading is available—Qtrade’s offering is strictly focused on stocks, ETFs (including crypto ETFs), mutual funds, and options. This increases transparency and reliability, but active traders seeking leveraged or derivative products will need to look elsewhere.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at Qtrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0–$25 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$100/year |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (EFT); may apply for wire or cheque | $0–$25/transaction |
| Inactivity fee | $25/quarter if requirements not met | $0–$25/quarter |
| Currency conversion fee | 1.5% above spot rate | 1.0%–2.5% |
Expert advice – Tip
Aim to meet Qtrade’s minimum balance or activity requirements each quarter to avoid the inactivity fee. If you trade US-listed securities often, consider consolidating trades to minimize currency conversions, or use Norbert’s Gambit if you want to reduce FX costs on large USD transfers.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Qtrade’s standard commission of $8.75 per trade is competitive among Canada’s major online brokers, though higher than newer platforms offering zero-commission trading. No mark-ups are added to the spread, and there are no custody or overnight fees for holding stocks or ETFs. If trading UK-listed stocks, a 0.5% stamp duty applies by law.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Qtrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $8.75/trade standard; $6.95 for active traders | $0–$9.99/trade |
| Spread fee | $0 (no mark-up; market spread only) | $0 |
| Overnight fee | $0 (for cash trading, no margin) | $0 |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$50/year |
| UK stamp duty tax | 0.5% (on UK-listed stocks, mandatory) | 0.5% |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Qtrade does not provide direct crypto trading, but offers broad access to crypto ETFs. ETF trades are subject to the standard commission unless trading from the commission-free list. There are no direct spread, custody, or transfer fees at the broker level for crypto exposure, but investors should check for ongoing ETF management fees charged by the fund provider.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Qtrade | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | $8.75 or $0 for commission-free ETF, plus ETF MER | 0.1%–2.0% per trade |
| Spread fees | Market ETF bid/ask only | 0.1%–1.0% |
| Overnight fees | $0 (no leverage on ETFs) | 0.02%–0.10%/day (CFDs) |
| Custody fees | $0 (at broker) | $0–$300/year or % of AUM |
| Transfer fees | $0 (no direct crypto transfer) | $0–$20/crypto tx |
Assets & Markets
Qtrade presents a solid, traditional brokerage offering designed for Canadian investors who prioritize regulatory security, research depth, and simplicity over access to exotic or speculative instruments. I find the coverage of Canadian and US stocks extensive enough to satisfy most buy-and-hold and dividend-focused investors, and the ability to access a comprehensive set of registered accounts (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, and more) provides important tax optimization flexibility.
ETF selection at Qtrade is a strong point: beyond widespread access to most TSX and NYSE/NASDAQ-listed funds, there are 100+ commission-free ETFs available, including a diverse range of equity sectors, fixed income, commodities, and even exposure to cryptocurrencies via ETF structures. The platform’s specialty in ETF screening and portfolio analysis tools is well-suited to DIY investors who want to optimize asset allocation or pursue passive investment strategies at a reasonable cost.
A limitation I encounter is the absence of spot forex, CFD, or direct crypto trading. While Qtrade does provide access to more than 150 crypto ETFs and other thematic funds, those looking to actively trade currency pairs, use leverage, or own raw digital assets will need to look elsewhere. Commodities and indices are also only available through ETFs; there is no direct trading in spot metals, agricultural contracts, or listed index futures. For fixed income, the selection of bonds and GICs is typical for Canadian brokerages: sufficient for laddering and diversification but not as wide or deep as institutional marketplaces.
I also note there’s no demo account available for Qtrade, which can be a drawback for those wishing to learn the interface without risking live capital. The lack of advanced derivatives (such as futures, CFDs, or covered warrants) is another mark of Qtrade’s focus on traditional assets over speculative or high-leverage products. Overall, this is a robust and reliable choice for long-term investors and retirement planners who value strong regulatory backing and access to the major North American markets.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at Qtrade | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot (CA/US) | Thousands | 5,000–10,000 | Royal Bank (RY), Enbridge (ENB), Apple (AAPL) |
| ETFs | Spot (CA/US) | Hundreds+ (incl. 100+ no-fee ETFs) | 900–2,000 | BMO S&P 500 ETF (ZSP), iShares Core S&P 500 (IVV) |
| Cryptocurrencies | ETFs only (no spot/CFD) | 150+ crypto/adjacent ETFs | 20–200 (spot/ETF) | Purpose Bitcoin ETF (BTCC), CI Galaxy Ethereum ETF (ETHX) |
| Currencies | Not available | 0 | 40–70 | — |
| Commodities | ETFs/funds only | Dozens (ETF-based) | 20–50 (ETF/CFD/spot) | iShares Gold Bullion ETF (CGL), BMO Oil ETF (ZEO) |
| Indices | ETFs only | Dozens (ETF-based) | 10–30 (direct) | Vanguard S&P 500 ETF (VOO), iShares TSX 60 ETF (XIU) |
| Bonds | Spot (gov/corp & GICs) | Dozens+ | 50–200 | Canada Savings Bond, Bell Canada Bond |
| Stablecoins | Not available | 0 | 5–20 (crypto brokers) | — |
| NFTs | Not available | 0 | 10–100 (crypto brokers) | — |
| Other derivatives | Options (listed only) | Major CA & US stocks | 100–500 | Options on Shopify (SHOP), TD Bank (TD), S&P 500 options |
Trading Tools & Apps
Qtrade’s web platform is designed with clarity and stability in mind, making it well-suited for investors who prioritize reliability and straightforward navigation. The interface is uncluttered, with logically organized menus and rapid access to core functions such as order entry, research, and performance tracking. Navigating account information, recent trades, or building watchlists is highly intuitive—qualities that beginners and long-term investors will appreciate.
For order execution, Qtrade covers the essential retail investor needs: market, limit, stop-loss, stop-limit, conditional, and trailing stop orders. Execution is efficient, but the absence of more advanced types like OCO orders or bracket orders reflects the platform’s focus on traditional equity and ETF trading rather than active day trading or high-frequency strategies. As there is no direct FX, CFD, or leveraged derivative support, risk management remains simple and accessible.
Charting and research tools are functional, offering multi-timeframe charts, technical indicators, and basic drawing tools, but they are outpaced by platforms like MetaTrader or TradingView in granularity and customization. Active traders who demand scripting, algorithmic programming, or automated strategy deployment will find Qtrade’s toolkit limited, as the platform does not support Expert Advisors, custom bots, or connect to advanced third-party software.
The mobile app effectively mirrors the web experience, providing quick trade execution, portfolio monitoring, and research tools in a streamlined format. That said, its capabilities are mostly on par with the web version; users seeking intricate mobile charting or advanced options analytics may encounter constraints.
Qtrade is ideal for clients looking to purchase spot Canadian and US-listed stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options. Crypto exposure is indirect and achieved only through ETFs—there’s no wallet, staking, lending, or direct digital asset management. Asset search and filtering are robust for traditional assets, but do not extend into derivatives or spot crypto.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app | Proprietary Qtrade app for iOS/Android; no MetaTrader, TradingView, or crypto app/wallet |
| Usability | Fluid, clean, and beginner-friendly interface; streamlined for portfolio management |
| Compatible software | Proprietary web and mobile platform; no MetaTrader 4/5, TradingView, or API integration |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, stop-limit, trailing stop, conditional orders; no OCO, no bracket orders |
| Charting and technical analysis | Multi-timeframe charts, built-in indicators, basic drawing tools; no advanced/backtest/scripting features |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Not available; no support for EAs, bots, or copy trading |
| Algorithmic trading | Not available; custom scripts and AI integrations unsupported |
| Negative balance protection | Not available; not needed (no CFD/Forex, margin on equities per IIROC) |
| Trading signals | Not available; no integration with TradingView or dedicated signal providers |
| Asset search and filters | Effective for stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, options; no support for CFD/crypto markets |
| Spot stock purchase | Supported (Canadian and US stocks only); no CFD, ETF CFDs, or spot crypto |
| Staking and earn | Not available; crypto exposure limited to ETFs |
Trader Tip
Customize your Qtrade dashboard and watchlists to focus quickly on your preferred asset classes and sectors. Set alerts for dividends, earnings, or price movements to enhance portfolio monitoring. Always enable two-factor authentication for another layer of security on both web and mobile.
Account Opening & Deposits
Account opening
You can open a Qtrade account fully online by starting with a standard registration form that collects your personal, employment, and financial details. The next step is identity verification, where you upload a government-issued photo ID and proof of address. You’ll also complete a brief regulatory questionnaire to help Qtrade determine your investor profile and meet Canadian KYC/AML requirements. Upload all required documents directly on the portal. Account validation is typically processed within 1–3 business days, after which you receive a confirmation email granting access to your new account and funding options.
Good to know
Having digital copies of your ID and address documents ready in advance helps speed up the verification—and can avoid delays during periods of high application volume.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Fully online registration, KYC questionnaire, upload ID and proof of address |
| Validation time | 1–3 business days |
| Accepted deposit methods | Electronic funds transfer (EFT), bill payment, cheque, transfer from other institutions |
| Minimum required deposit | $0 |
| Required documents | Government-issued photo ID, proof of address, SIN (for tax reporting) |
| Practical tip | Ensure all uploaded files are clear and legible to avoid verification delays |
Deposits and withdrawals on Qtrade
Qtrade allows deposits through electronic funds transfer (EFT), bill payment from Canadian banks, mailed cheques, or direct transfer from other financial institutions. Supported currencies are CAD and USD, and there is no minimum deposit for any method. EFT and bill payments typically take 1–3 business days to reflect, while cheque deposits and institution transfers may take longer. Qtrade does not charge deposit fees. Withdrawals are available via EFT to a linked Canadian bank account and by cheque; these are usually processed within 1–3 business days with no withdrawal fee. Qtrade does not offer support for credit cards, e-wallets, stablecoins, or direct crypto deposits/withdrawals. All transactions are fiat-only—Qtrade does not provide integrated crypto wallets or direct fiat-to-crypto conversion.
Good to know
Before depositing or withdrawing, always verify your linked bank account's currency, as currency conversion incurs a 1.5% fee above spot—and processing times may vary during bank holidays.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | Not supported | – | – | – |
| Bank transfer (EFT) | CAD, USD | $0 | 1–3 business days | None |
| E-wallets | Not supported | – | – | – |
| Stablecoins or cryptos | Not supported | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Cheque (CAD, USD), transfer from another brokerage | $0 | 3–5 business days (cheque or transfer) | None |
Account Types
Qtrade is a leading Canadian online broker focused on traditional investing, not a CFD/Forex or crypto platform. It is regulated by IIROC and protected by CIPF, offering a secure environment for investing in Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, and options. Qtrade does not support direct crypto trading, CFDs, forex, or advanced account types like Raw ECN or Islamic accounts. Investors can choose from an extensive range of registered (TFSA, RRSP, RESP, etc.) and non-registered accounts, with no minimum deposit required. Demo accounts and staking/earn or cold storage accounts are not available. The platform is accessible via web and mobile, with competitive commissions and research tools aimed at both beginners and experienced investors.
| Account Type | Available | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ❌ | Not offered; practice trading not available before funding |
| Standard account | ✅ | Cash and margin accounts; no minimum deposit; access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, options |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; Qtrade does not support forex or ECN pricing |
| Islamic account | ❌ | Not available; no swap-free/halal options for investing |
| Professional account | ❌ | Not offered; all accounts are retail under IIROC regulation |
| CFD account | ❌ | Not available; Qtrade does not offer CFD trading |
| Classic securities account | ✅ | Access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available; no crypto or staking services offered |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not available; no direct crypto custody |
| Tax-advantaged account | ✅ | Full range: RRSP, TFSA, RESP, LIRA, LIF, RRIF, with associated Canadian tax benefits |
| Accepted base currencies | ✅ | Primarily CAD, with USD available for U.S. trading |
Trip
If you’re comparing account types, pay special attention to whether the account allows margin, supports registered (tax-advantaged) status, and fits your main investing objectives—Qtrade is best suited for investors seeking long-term security rather than short-term trading in leveraged or crypto products.
How Qtrade Compares to Competitors
How does Qtrade compare to competitors?
| Feature | Qtrade | Questrade | Wealthsimple | IFC Markets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 ($1,000 recommended) | $0 | $1 | |
| Number of instruments | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, Forex, CFDs, Crypto CFDs) | 8,000+ Stocks & ETFs, 50+ Cryptocurrencies | 600+ (Forex, Crypto CFDs, Stock CFDs, Indices, Commodities) | |
| Spreads (examples) | Stocks: $4.95-$9.95/trade ETFs: Free to buy Forex: from 0.8 pips | Stocks/ETFs: $0 commission Crypto: 1.5-2% fee | Forex: from 0.4 pips Stock CFDs: $0.02/share Crypto CFDs: from 0.2% | |
| Trading platforms | Web/Trading, Edge (Desktop), Mobile | Web, Mobile App | NetTradeX, MT4, MT5, Web, Mobile | |
| Regulation | IIROC, CIPF Member | IIROC, CIPF Member | BVI FSC (Offshore) | |
| Demo account | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Read the review | Read the review Questrade | Read the review Wealthsimple | Read the review IFC Markets |
ETFs: Free to buy
Forex: from 0.8 pips
Crypto: 1.5-2% fee
Stock CFDs: $0.02/share
Crypto CFDs: from 0.2%
Customer reviews
Qtrade has a Trustpilot rating of 2.6 out of 5, based on 38 user reviews as of July 2025.
Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Straightforward account opening with no minimum deposit required
- User-friendly web platform with clear navigation
- Wide range of registered and non-registered account types
- Reliable fund transfers and integration with Canadian banks
- Access to commission-free ETFs and a good selection of traditional investment products
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Customer service can be slow to respond at times
- Higher trading commissions compared to some other platforms
- Limited research tools relative to competitors
- No demo or practice account for new users
- Mobile app functionality could be improved
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
_M.B. – 11/06/2025 : “The platform is easy to use, but customer service can be slow to respond.”_ _J.R. – 09/05/2025 : “Fees are reasonable, but I wish there were more research tools.”_ _K.W. – 26/04/2025 : “Transfers between accounts are straightforward, but the mobile app could be improved.”_
FAQ
Is Qtrade regulated in CA?
Yes, Qtrade is fully regulated in Canada. It operates as a division of Aviso Financial Inc. and is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) as well as the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which helps safeguard client assets up to $1 million.
What is the minimum deposit on Qtrade?
There is no minimum deposit required to open or maintain an account with Qtrade. This applies to all account types, including registered and non-registered accounts, making it accessible for a wide range of Canadian investors.
Does Qtrade offer a welcome bonus?
Qtrade does not usually offer a welcome bonus or cash incentive for new account openings. Occasionally there may be limited-time promotions, but as of the latest information, no standing welcome offer is available.
How does leverage work on Qtrade?
Leverage at Qtrade is available only through margin accounts and limited to qualifying securities, typically up to a 2:1 ratio for equities. The specific leverage allowed depends on IIROC regulations and asset class. Registered accounts like RRSPs and TFSAs are not eligible for margin or leverage.
How does Qtrade make money?
Qtrade earns revenue primarily through trading commissions, margin interest, account service fees such as inactivity charges, and currency conversion fees on foreign exchange trades. There are no commissions on the purchase of most mutual funds, but an early redemption fee may apply.
Who is behind Qtrade?
Qtrade is operated by Qtrade Direct Investing, which is a division of Aviso Financial Inc., a Canadian financial services firm partly owned by Credit Union Centrals and Desjardins. Aviso Financial is a trusted provider within Canada’s financial industry.
When was Qtrade launched?
Qtrade was launched in 2000 and has since become an established name in the Canadian online brokerage market, with a strong reputation for reliability and investor protection.
Does Qtrade offer copy trading or social trading?
No, Qtrade does not provide copy trading, social trading, or any type of automated investment copier. All trading and investment decisions must be made by the account holder using the platform’s research and analysis tools.
How can I contact Qtrade’s customer service?
Qtrade customer service can be reached by phone at 1-877-787-2330 or 604-605-4199, by email at directinvesting@qtrade.ca, or by mail at their Vancouver address. Availability is generally during regular business hours, Eastern Time.
Does Qtrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
Qtrade does not have an ongoing referral or cashback program. Occasionally, special promotions or transfer bonuses may be launched for a limited time, so it is best to check the official website for the most current offers.
Is Qtrade regulated in CA?
Yes, Qtrade is fully regulated in Canada. It operates as a division of Aviso Financial Inc. and is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) as well as the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which helps safeguard client assets up to $1 million.
What is the minimum deposit on Qtrade?
There is no minimum deposit required to open or maintain an account with Qtrade. This applies to all account types, including registered and non-registered accounts, making it accessible for a wide range of Canadian investors.
Does Qtrade offer a welcome bonus?
Qtrade does not usually offer a welcome bonus or cash incentive for new account openings. Occasionally there may be limited-time promotions, but as of the latest information, no standing welcome offer is available.
How does leverage work on Qtrade?
Leverage at Qtrade is available only through margin accounts and limited to qualifying securities, typically up to a 2:1 ratio for equities. The specific leverage allowed depends on IIROC regulations and asset class. Registered accounts like RRSPs and TFSAs are not eligible for margin or leverage.
How does Qtrade make money?
Qtrade earns revenue primarily through trading commissions, margin interest, account service fees such as inactivity charges, and currency conversion fees on foreign exchange trades. There are no commissions on the purchase of most mutual funds, but an early redemption fee may apply.
Who is behind Qtrade?
Qtrade is operated by Qtrade Direct Investing, which is a division of Aviso Financial Inc., a Canadian financial services firm partly owned by Credit Union Centrals and Desjardins. Aviso Financial is a trusted provider within Canada’s financial industry.
When was Qtrade launched?
Qtrade was launched in 2000 and has since become an established name in the Canadian online brokerage market, with a strong reputation for reliability and investor protection.
Does Qtrade offer copy trading or social trading?
No, Qtrade does not provide copy trading, social trading, or any type of automated investment copier. All trading and investment decisions must be made by the account holder using the platform’s research and analysis tools.
How can I contact Qtrade’s customer service?
Qtrade customer service can be reached by phone at 1-877-787-2330 or 604-605-4199, by email at directinvesting@qtrade.ca, or by mail at their Vancouver address. Availability is generally during regular business hours, Eastern Time.
Does Qtrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
Qtrade does not have an ongoing referral or cashback program. Occasionally, special promotions or transfer bonuses may be launched for a limited time, so it is best to check the official website for the most current offers.
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