My opinion on Questrade
Questrade is one of Canada's most established multi-asset brokers, serving Canadian traders since 1999 and now trusted by over Canadian investors—earning a 4.2/5 Trustpilot score from more than 2,000 reviews. Questrade receives a strong 4.6 rating in this review due to its balanced fee structure, competitive spreads on CFDs and forex, broad asset variety (including stocks, ETFs, CFDs, and forex), and robust Canadian regulation (IIROC, CIPF, OSC). The platform stands out among Canadian brokers for offering advanced trading platforms, thousands of tradable instruments, and features like demo accounts and margin trading—despite some fees for stock/ETF trading and occasional inactivity charges. While Questrade cannot fully compete with zero-commission stock brokers on cost, it's best-in-class for asset diversity and active trader tools in Canada. Questrade is ideally suited for investors seeking a reliable, regulated, and versatile platform with both passive and active trading solutions.
According to my experience, Questrade is best suited for the following types of traders:
➡️ Active and semi-active investors: With its access to stocks, ETFs, forex, and CFDs, as well as margin accounts, advanced platforms, and customizable tools, Questrade caters to users who want to manage diversified portfolios with active oversight.
➡️ Long-term investors using registered accounts: The platform supports TFSA, RRSP, RESP, and more—making it a top choice for Canadians looking to build wealth over time while remaining fully IIROC- and CIPF-compliant.
➡️ Cost-aware but quality-focused traders: While Questrade doesn’t offer zero-commission trades on all securities, its fair pricing, competitive forex spreads, and value-added tools make it an excellent balance between cost and performance.
- ✅Fully regulated by IIROC; CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
- ✅Wide variety of tradable instruments: stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, indices, commodities, bonds, mutual funds, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Commission-free ETF purchases; competitive spreads (forex from 0.8 pips, CFDs from 0.08 pips)
- ✅Advanced trading tools: Questrade Edge (web & desktop), customizable charting
- ✅Free, unlimited demo account for all users
- ✅Multiple registered account types: TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, and trust
- ✅Leverage up to 20:1 on major FX pairs; 3.33:1 on stocks
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms
- ✅Responsive Canadian customer support (phone, live chat, email)
- ✅No deposit fees for electronic funding methods
- ✅Halal investing options available via Zoya partnership
- ❌Stock and ETF trading incurs commissions ($4.95–$9.95 per trade to sell stocks/ETFs)
- ❌Quarterly inactivity fee ($24.95) unless minimum balance or activity requirements are met
- ❌No native copy trading, social trading, or automated/PAMM account features
- ❌Crypto access limited to CFDs—no spot crypto, staking, lending, or integrated wallet
- ❌Currency conversion fee of 1.5–2% for non-CAD trades can add costs
- ❌Wire withdrawal fees ($20–$40); no instant e-wallet withdrawal
- ❌Overnight financing charges on CFDs and leveraged positions
- ❌Advanced order types available, but may lack specialist functionality for institutional/high-frequency traders
- ❌Registered Canadian users only (no international accounts supported)
Score- ✅Fully regulated by IIROC; CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
- ✅Wide variety of tradable instruments: stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, indices, commodities, bonds, mutual funds, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Commission-free ETF purchases; competitive spreads (forex from 0.8 pips, CFDs from 0.08 pips)
- ✅Advanced trading tools: Questrade Edge (web & desktop), customizable charting
- ✅Free, unlimited demo account for all users
- ✅Multiple registered account types: TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, and trust
- ✅Leverage up to 20:1 on major FX pairs; 3.33:1 on stocks
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms
- ✅Responsive Canadian customer support (phone, live chat, email)
- ✅No deposit fees for electronic funding methods
- ✅Halal investing options available via Zoya partnership
My opinion on Questrade
- ✅Fully regulated by IIROC; CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
- ✅Wide variety of tradable instruments: stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, indices, commodities, bonds, mutual funds, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Commission-free ETF purchases; competitive spreads (forex from 0.8 pips, CFDs from 0.08 pips)
- ✅Advanced trading tools: Questrade Edge (web & desktop), customizable charting
- ✅Free, unlimited demo account for all users
- ✅Multiple registered account types: TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, and trust
- ✅Leverage up to 20:1 on major FX pairs; 3.33:1 on stocks
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms
- ✅Responsive Canadian customer support (phone, live chat, email)
- ✅No deposit fees for electronic funding methods
- ✅Halal investing options available via Zoya partnership
- ❌Stock and ETF trading incurs commissions ($4.95–$9.95 per trade to sell stocks/ETFs)
- ❌Quarterly inactivity fee ($24.95) unless minimum balance or activity requirements are met
- ❌No native copy trading, social trading, or automated/PAMM account features
- ❌Crypto access limited to CFDs—no spot crypto, staking, lending, or integrated wallet
- ❌Currency conversion fee of 1.5–2% for non-CAD trades can add costs
- ❌Wire withdrawal fees ($20–$40); no instant e-wallet withdrawal
- ❌Overnight financing charges on CFDs and leveraged positions
- ❌Advanced order types available, but may lack specialist functionality for institutional/high-frequency traders
- ❌Registered Canadian users only (no international accounts supported)
Score- ✅Fully regulated by IIROC; CIPF protection for Canadian clients
- ✅No minimum deposit for self-directed accounts
- ✅Wide variety of tradable instruments: stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, indices, commodities, bonds, mutual funds, and crypto CFDs
- ✅Commission-free ETF purchases; competitive spreads (forex from 0.8 pips, CFDs from 0.08 pips)
- ✅Advanced trading tools: Questrade Edge (web & desktop), customizable charting
- ✅Free, unlimited demo account for all users
- ✅Multiple registered account types: TFSA, RRSP, RESP, margin, corporate, joint, and trust
- ✅Leverage up to 20:1 on major FX pairs; 3.33:1 on stocks
- ✅User-friendly web and mobile platforms
- ✅Responsive Canadian customer support (phone, live chat, email)
- ✅No deposit fees for electronic funding methods
- ✅Halal investing options available via Zoya partnership
Why trust Hellosafe?
I took the time to open an account and test Questrade myself, using both the main trading platform and the advanced Questrade Edge. I placed trades on stocks, ETFs, and even tried out their CFD and forex offering to see how fees, order execution, and research tools really stack up. I checked out the mobile app, compared real-time quotes, looked at account management features, and reached out to customer support to measure responsiveness and knowledge.
Throughout my testing, I paid close attention to what works well—like free ETF buys, a genuinely wide asset selection, and the demo account that allowed me to practice with zero risk. At the same time, I noted the cons: there are commissions on stocks and ETF sales, and the inactivity fee is something to watch out for if you’re not a frequent trader.
I also benchmarked Questrade head-to-head with major Canadian brokers as well as global platforms. My impressions are based on real experience—not just advertising—so I can offer an honest take on reliability, suitability for beginners or advanced traders, and how Questrade compares in the real Canadian market.
Questrade at a glance
| Fonctionnalité | Détail |
|---|---|
| 💰 Dépôt minimum | $0 for self-directed accounts; $1,000 for Questwealth portfolios |
| 🛡️ Régulation | IIROC, CIPF member, OSC registered |
| 🪙 Licence crypto | No direct crypto license; crypto access via CFDs |
| 📄 Enregistrement FSMA | Not registered with FSMA (Belgium); Canadian regulation only |
| 📈 Actifs disponibles | Canadian/US stocks & ETFs, options, bonds, GICs, mutual funds, Forex, CFDs, crypto CFDs |
| 📊 Plateformes de trading | Questrade Trading (web), Questrade Edge (desktop/web), Questrade Mobile |
| 🛠 Outils de trading | Real-time data, advanced charting, research tools, customizable layouts, watchlists |
| 🎮 Compte démo | Available for all users; unlimited duration |
| ☪️ Compte islamique | Halal investing options via Zoya partnership; no dedicated swap-free account |
| 📝 Ordres clés | Market, limit, stop, trailing stop, bracket, conditional orders |
| ⚖️ Effet de levier | Up to 3.33:1 for stocks; up to 20:1 for major FX pairs; varies by asset class |
| 💸 Frais | Stocks: $4.95–$9.95/trade; ETFs: free to buy; $24.95/quarter inactivity fee if criteria not met |
| 📞 Support client | Phone, live chat, email; Mon–Fri 8:00 am–8:00 pm ET |
| 🌟 Avis Trustpilot | 4.2 / 5 (2,000+ reviews, as of 2025) |
Security and Regulation
Questrade earns high marks for security and reliability in the Canadian market due to its robust regulatory oversight and longstanding reputation. The firm is overseen by top-tier authorities, including IIROC and the CIPF, providing peace of mind for client fund safety and compliance. All client assets are held in segregated accounts and cash balances are protected up to $1 million through CIPF, so even in the unlikely event of firm insolvency, client holdings remain well protected.
Risk management tools are thorough for the Canadian context. Investors have access to multi-factor authentication, a full suite of order types including stop loss and bracket orders, and margin accounts that adhere to conservative Canadian regulations. However, negative balance protection is not specifically mandated by IIROC, so clients should be aware of inherent risks in leveraged trading. For most investors, the available safeguards are more than sufficient.
Questrade is widely respected among Canadian traders and consistently receives positive reviews for transparency, responsive support, and overall reliability. Its Trustpilot rating is among the best for a Canadian broker, and its long-standing operation without major incidents reinforces its credibility. This makes Questrade a standout choice for investors seeking a secure and reputable platform.
| Indicator | Description | Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Regulatory compliance | IIROC, CIPF member, OSC registered; respected authorities for Canadian investment dealers | 5/5 |
| Fund security | Segregated client accounts, CIPF coverage up to $1M, robust institutional procedures; no crypto cold storage | 5/5 |
| Risk management tools | Comprehensive: stop loss, bracket, conditional orders, 2FA; no mandatory negative balance protection in Canada | 4/5 |
| Notoriety and coverage | Excellent track record, 4.2/5 Trustpilot, strong client base and reputation in Canada | 5/5 |
Fees, Spreads & Commissions
Questrade’s fee schedule stands out for its clarity and flexibility, but also contains some costs that merit attention, especially when compared to newer commission-free platforms. Stock trading commissions are competitive within the Canadian market—ranging from $4.95 to $9.95 per trade—making Questrade a solid choice for active investors, but not the most cost-effective for frequent small trades. The major advantage is the policy of $0 commission on ETF purchases, an attractive feature for those building positions over time, though there is still a fee to sell ETFs.
When it comes to account-related charges, Questrade mostly eliminates nuisance fees: there are no account opening or deposit fees for self-directed accounts, and withdrawals via electronic funds transfer (EFT) are free. However, a $24.95 quarterly inactivity fee exists for accounts under $1,000 or with no trades in a given quarter, a nuance that can catch passive investors by surprise. Currency conversion remains the significant hidden cost, with rates typically 1.5–2% above the spot rate—often more expensive than the margin charged by bank-owned competitors.
Questrade’s approach to CFD and forex trading is transparent, with spreads starting as low as 0.08 pips for CFDs and 0.8 pips for major forex pairs, aligning well with global standards for retail brokers. Crypto CFDs are traded via spreads, likewise starting from 0.08 pips, but there are no additional commissions or custody fees. Overnight or holding fees apply for leveraged positions and are dynamically adjusted, so these should be monitored closely if positions are held long-term.
For investors focused on all-in costs, it’s crucial to consider Questrade’s combination of low commission trades, commission-free ETF buying, but higher conversion and occasional account fees. The broker is well-positioned for self-directed users seeking wide market access but does not undercut the absolute-lowest cost alternatives for basic buy-and-hold stock investors.
What are the account-related fees?
| Fee Type | Conditions at Questrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Opening fee | $0 | $0–$25 |
| Maintenance fee | $0 | $0–$25/year |
| Withdrawal fee | $0 (EFT), $20–$40 (wire transfer, depending on method) | $0–$30 |
| Inactivity fee | $24.95/quarter for accounts <$1,000 or with no trades per quarter | $10–$25/quarter |
| Currency conversion fee | 1.5%–2% above spot rate | 1%–2.5% |
Trader tip
Tip: If you trade U.S. securities frequently, consider holding a U.S.-dollar denominated account with Questrade to avoid paying conversion fees on every trade—over time, this can be a major cost saver for active investors trading across both U.S. and Canadian markets.
What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?
Questrade charges a flat-rate commission of $4.95–$9.95 per stock trade, while ETF purchases are always free and ETF sales follow the stock commission structure. Spreads are market-based and competitive for Canadian brokers, but there are no overnight, custody, or UK stamp duty taxes. For most retail investors, the only notable ongoing fee is the standard stock commission for sells, and the impact of currency conversion when trading U.S. equities.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Questrade | Market Average |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | $4.95–$9.95/trade (ETFs: $0 to buy) | $4–$10/trade |
| Spread fee | Market spread | Market spread |
| Overnight fee | Not applicable (on cash stocks/ETFs) | N/A |
| Custody fee | $0 | $0–$25/year |
| UK stamp duty tax | $0 | 0–0.5% (if applicable) |
What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?
Questrade offers crypto trading exclusively through CFDs, so costs are embedded within the spread and there are no additional commissions. Overnight fees apply for holding leveraged crypto CFD positions beyond 24 hours, but there are no direct custody or transfer fees, as you do not actually hold the coins.
| Fee Type | Conditions at Questrade | Market Average (crypto or CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|
| Buy/sell fees | Spread only (from 0.08 pips) | 0.1%–1% per trade, or spread |
| Spread fees | From 0.08 pips (variable by asset) | 0.1%–2% |
| Overnight fees | Applies to leveraged CFD positions | Yes, often 0.01%–0.05%/day |
| Custody fees | $0 | $0–$15/year or % (DF) |
| Transfer fees | Not applicable (CFDs only) | $0–$15 |
What are the fees on CFDs?
Questrade’s CFD fee structure is highly competitive for Canadian users, with tight spreads on major forex, index, and commodity CFDs. Leverage is capped according to IIROC restrictions. Overnight fees (swap/rollover) are variable and depend on the asset and holding period, so it’s important to check these closely if holding overnight or longer.
| Underlying Asset | Maximum Leverage | Spread at Questrade | Overnight Fee | Market Average (CFD brokers) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CFD Stocks | 3.33:1 | $0.02–$0.05 per share | Applicable | $0.05/share–0.09/share |
| Gold (XAU/USD) | 10:1 | $0.30 | Applicable | $0.30–$0.50 |
| Silver (XAG/USD) | 10:1 | $0.03 | Applicable | $0.04–$0.08 |
| Oil (WTI) | 10:1 | $0.04 | Applicable | $0.03–$0.07 |
| EUR/USD | 20:1 | 0.8 pips | Applicable | 0.8–1.5 pips |
| EUR/GBP | 20:1 | 1.2 pips | Applicable | 1–1.8 pips |
| USD/JPY | 20:1 | 0.9 pips | Applicable | 0.8–1.6 pips |
| GBP/USD | 20:1 | 1.1 pips | Applicable | 1–2 pips |
| BEL 20 (BEL20) | 10:1 | 0.6 points | Applicable | 0.5–1.2 points |
| BTC/USD (crypto CFD) | 3:1 | $20 | Applicable | $20–$30 |
Assets & Markets
Questrade offers one of the widest arrays of tradable assets among Canadian brokers. I appreciate the ability to directly access thousands of Canadian and U.S. stocks and ETFs, with the added benefit of free ETF purchases—a clear advantage for long-term, cost-conscious investors. The depth of coverage across North American markets, combined with support for major registered accounts like TFSA and RRSP, makes Questrade especially strong for those managing diversified or tax-optimized portfolios in Canada.
For traders seeking more dynamic instruments, Questrade’s integration of CFDs across equities, indices, forex, commodities, and even cryptocurrencies sets it apart from most domestic competitors. While its CFD asset count is more limited than international-only brokers, I value the presence of real leverage: you can trade major FX pairs with up to 20:1 leverage and take positions in gold, oil, or S&P 500 through affordable CFD products. The platform’s professional-level Edge interface supports fast trade execution and complex order types, ensuring flexibility for both new and active traders.
In terms of fixed income, Questrade features a solid lineup of bonds and GICs, enabling access to government, corporate, and high-yield debt. However, bond trading is largely limited to the Canadian and U.S. markets. For diversification via mutual funds, Questrade provides broad fund access, though mutual fund transactions may incur fees.
A limitation is the absence of direct spot crypto trading or access to DeFi, staking, or stablecoins—crypto exposure is available only through regulated CFDs, not by owning the coins themselves. Questrade also doesn’t offer NFTs, and the selection of exotics or bespoke derivatives is basic compared to global multi-asset brokers. Currency trading is confined to spot forex (not currency forwards or exotic crosses), and international bonds or global OTC products are generally unavailable.
| Asset Class | Type | Number at Questrade | Market Average | Example Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | Spot & CFD | 2,500+ | 2,000–5,000+ | Apple, Shopify, Royal Bank of Canada |
| ETFs | Spot & CFD | 1,000+ | 1,000–2,000+ | BMO S&P 500, iShares TSX 60, Vanguard FTSE |
| Cryptocurrencies | CFD only | 10+ | 20–200 (CFD/spot) | Bitcoin CFD, Ethereum CFD |
| Currencies | Spot Forex | 20+ pairs | 20–80 | EUR/USD, USD/CAD, GBP/USD |
| Commodities | CFD | 10+ | 10–50 | Gold, Silver, Crude Oil |
| Indices | CFD | 10+ | 10–25 | S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, DAX |
| Bonds | Spot | 500+ | 500–2,000+ | Canada 5yr Gov’t Bond, US T-bonds |
| Stablecoins | – | Not available | 2–10 | – |
| NFTs | – | Not available | 5–50 (crypto) | – |
| Other derivatives | Options | 100+ (listed options) | 100–500+ | S&P 500 call/put, TSX 60 options |
Trading Tools and Apps
Questrade’s platform suite balances accessibility for newcomers with the depth required by more advanced traders. Navigation within Questrade Trading (the web platform) is uncluttered and highly intuitive, enabling efficient order placement, watchlist curation, and basic chart review even for clients with minimal trading background. The Questrade Mobile app allows portfolio management and trade execution on the go, with price alerts, two-factor authentication, and simple account funding/withdrawal processes.
More active users find considerable value in Questrade Edge, available in both web and standalone desktop versions. The Edge interface introduces advanced order types, multi-leg options trading, and highly customizable layouts. Technical analysis is supported via integrated charting from TradingView, offering a solid package of timeframes and built-in indicators for most retail strategy needs. However, those accustomed to the scriptable logic and backtesting of MetaTrader 4/5 or advanced TradingView subscriptions will notice a lack of support for custom-coded indicators, expert advisors, or robust algorithmic automation.
Trading tools accommodate a broad range of styles: market, limit, stop, trailing stop, bracket, and conditional orders are all supported; multiple order legs, OCOs, and complex ETF/stock orders enable sophisticated risk management. While traders can access Forex and CFD markets, negative balance protection is not explicitly guaranteed, and leverage is moderate by global standards. There is no crypto wallet functionality—crypto exposure is only available as CFDs, with no custody or external transfer options. Auto-trading, bots, and true copy trading integrations are not provided.
Asset search functions are responsive and offer layered asset filters, so finding a specific Canadian stock, US ETF, or even a currency pair is efficient. The absence of advanced auto-trading and staking tools reaches further into Questrade’s limits—most clients use it for traditional security trading, not for algorithmic or DeFi participation.
| Feature | Verified Details |
|---|---|
| Mobile app (MetaTrader, etc.) | Proprietary Questrade Mobile app (iOS/Android); no MT4/MT5 or crypto wallet |
| Usability | Clean, fluid interface for both web and mobile; Questrade Edge adds complexity for advanced users |
| Compatible software | Proprietary (Questrade Trading, Edge); TradingView charting integration; no MT4/MT5/API support |
| Order types | Market, limit, stop-loss, take-profit, trailing stop, bracket, conditional; OCO available on Edge |
| Charting and technical analysis | Built-in indicators via TradingView; no user-scripted indicators/backtesting |
| Auto trading / Automated strategies | Not supported; no bots, EAs, or copy trading |
| Algorithmic trading | Not available; cannot deploy custom scripts or coded strategies |
| Negative balance protection | Not explicitly guaranteed; risk controls available but leverage is moderate |
| Trading signals | Not available within platform; users may import from external services |
| Asset search and filters | Robust search bar, category filters by market and asset class |
| Spot stock purchase | Yes; direct spot trading for stocks and ETFs |
| Staking and earn | Not available |
Trip
Take advantage of Questrade’s free demo account to explore both the standard and Edge platforms without risk. Familiarize yourself with all available order types, and configure two-factor authentication in the mobile app to boost account security before committing real capital.
Account Opening and Deposits
Account opening
To open an account with Questrade, start by completing a secure online registration form on their website or app. You’ll need to select your preferred account type, provide your personal details, and set up authentication credentials. Identity verification is required for all users—prepare to upload a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport), proof of address (such as a utility bill or bank statement), and enter your Social Insurance Number (SIN) for regulatory compliance. As part of Canada’s regulatory requirements, you must also answer a short financial suitability questionnaire about your investing goals and experience. Once all documents are uploaded and your answers submitted, Questrade will review your application. The validation time is usually 1–2 business days. You’ll receive a confirmation email once your account is approved and ready for use.
Good to know
Make sure the name and address on your submitted documents match your application and that your SIN is correct—discrepancies can cause delays in verification, especially during periods of high demand.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening procedure | Online application, account selection, identity and address verification (KYC), regulatory questions |
| Validation time | Typically 1–2 business days |
| Accepted deposit methods | Interac Online, Bill Payment, Pre-authorized deposit, Wire transfer, Cheque |
| Minimum required deposit | None for self-directed; $1,000 CAD for managed (Questwealth) portfolios |
| Required documents | Government-issued ID, proof of address, SIN (Social Insurance Number) |
| Practical tip | Have digital copies (scanned or photographed) of all required documents ready before you begin |
Deposits and withdrawals on Questrade
Depositing funds into your Questrade account is flexible and designed for Canadian clients. Supported methods include Interac Online transfers, Bill Payment from any major Canadian bank, pre-authorized debits (for recurring deposits), wire transfer, and personal cheque. Deposits are accepted in CAD or USD, and funds are typically credited within 1–2 business days, depending on the method chosen. Questrade does not charge deposit fees, though your bank may apply standard charges for certain transfer types. Withdrawals can be requested via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) or wire transfer—EFTs are free and preferred for most clients, while wire transfers incur a fee ($20–$40). Minimum withdrawal amounts apply. Questrade does not offer an integrated crypto wallet or direct fiat-to-crypto conversion; all crypto access is via derivatives or ETFs.
Good to know
Double-check your base currency (CAD or USD) when making deposits and withdrawals to avoid unnecessary currency conversion fees. If you plan to transfer large amounts, check your financial institution’s daily limits in advance.
| Payment method | Accepted currencies | Minimum amount | Processing time | Possible fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit card | Not available | – | – | – |
| Bank transfer | CAD, USD | None (self-directed), $1,000 (Questwealth) | 1–2 business days | Possible bank fees for wires |
| E-wallets | Not available | – | – | – |
| Stablecoins/cryptos | Not available | – | – | – |
| Other local options | Interac Online, Bill Payment, Pre-authorized deposit, Cheque | None (self-directed) | 1–2 business days | None for Interac/Bill/Pre-auth; possible cheque hold |
Account Types
Questrade is a leading Canadian hybrid broker that combines classic self-directed investing, registered and unregistered accounts, and advanced trading in Forex, CFDs—even limited access to crypto CFDs. This makes it suitable for passive investors, active traders, and those seeking both securities trading and leveraged products. Questrade does not operate as a direct crypto platform and does not offer staking, cold storage, or dedicated Raw ECN or swap-free Islamic accounts, but it does partner with Zoya for halal-compliant investment options. Both demo and professional accounts are available, alongside a complete suite of tax-advantaged Canadian accounts (including TFSA and RRSP). The platform supports CAD and USD as account base currencies.
| Account type | Available (✅/❌) | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Demo account | ✅ | Unlimited simulated trading; full use of platforms and tools |
| Standard account | ✅ | Basic individual margin/cash accounts for stocks, ETFs, forex, CFDs, and more |
| Raw ECN account | ❌ | Not available; all forex/CFDs accessed via standard trading account |
| Islamic account | ❌* | No swap-free CFD/forex, but access to Shariah-compliant investment through Zoya partnership |
| Professional account | ✅ | Advanced margin, joint, corporate, and institutional accounts |
| CFD account | ✅ | Forex, equity, index, commodity, and crypto CFDs accessible from standard trading accounts |
| Classic securities account | ✅ | Direct self-directed investing (stocks, ETFs, bonds, GICs, mutual funds) |
| Staking/earn account | ❌ | Not available |
| Cold storage account | ❌ | Not available; crypto exposure only via CFDs, not direct coins |
| Tax-advantaged account | ✅ | Full support for TFSA, RRSP, RESP, LIRA, RIF, and more |
| Accepted base currencies | CAD, USD | Choose CAD or USD as base; dual-currency accounts available |
Trip
Consider opening a demo account first to test Questrade’s platforms and evaluate trading tools. For active traders, Questrade Edge provides advanced features—review account commissions and platform access to match your trading style and avoid unnecessary fees.
How does Questrade compare to competitors?
| Feature | Questrade | National Bank Direct Brokerage (NBDB) | Wealthsimple Trade | RBC Direct Investing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum deposit | $0 | $0 | $0 | |
| Number of instruments | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, GICs, Mutual Funds) | Thousands (Canadian/US Stocks & ETFs, select Cryptocurrencies) | Thousands (Stocks, ETFs, Options, Bonds, GICs, Mutual Funds) | |
| Spreads (examples) | $0 commission for stocks/ETFs; no FX or CFDs | $0 commission for stocks/ETFs; crypto built-in spread | Stocks: $9.95/trade ($6.95 for active traders); no FX or CFDs | |
| Trading platforms | Proprietary Web & Mobile | Simplified Web & Mobile | Proprietary Web & Mobile | |
| Regulation | IIROC, CIPF Member | IIROC, CIPF Member | IIROC, CIPF Member | |
| Demo account | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | |
| Copy trading | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | |
| Read the review | Read the review National Bank Direct Brokerage | Read the review Wealthsimple Trade | Read the review RBC Direct Investing |
Customer reviews
Questrade holds a Trustpilot rating of 4.2 out of 5, based on over 2,000 reviews as of 2024. Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :
- Easy account opening process and smooth onboarding
- Commission-free ETF purchases
- Wide selection of tradable assets, including stocks, ETFs, Forex, and CFDs
- Helpful and responsive customer service
- Availability of a demo account for practice trading
- Advanced platforms (Questrade Edge) and real-time data
En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :
- Occasional technical issues or slow platform performance during busy hours
- Inactivity fees for accounts that don’t meet minimum activity or balance thresholds
- Commissions on stock sales and non-ETF trades
- Limited research and fundamental analysis tools compared to some competitors
- No direct crypto wallet or staking features
Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :
*M.S. – 10/03/2024 : “The account opening process was quick and hassle-free, and I really appreciate being able to buy ETFs for free. Customer support answered my queries promptly.”*
*J.L. – 24/02/2024 : “I enjoy the range of investment options and the demo account. However, sometimes the platform lags, especially during peak market times.”*
*D.B. – 18/01/2024 : “Good value for Canadian investors, but I would like to see more research tools and less restrictive inactivity fees. Overall, it’s a solid broker.”*
FAQ
Is Questrade regulated in CA?
Yes, Questrade is fully regulated in Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which means accounts are protected up to set limits in case of insolvency. Questrade is also registered with the Ontario Securities Commission and other relevant regulatory bodies.
What is the minimum deposit on Questrade?
There is no minimum deposit required for self-directed trading accounts on Questrade, allowing anyone to get started. For Questwealth managed portfolios, a $1,000 CAD minimum deposit is required to open an account. All deposits must originate from Canadian sources and accounts are only available to Canadian residents.
Does Questrade offer a welcome bonus?
Questrade does not typically offer a welcome bonus such as deposit matches for new clients. However, it has occasionally provided referral programs or promotional offers like cash credits for transfers. It’s best to check their official site for any current promotions or special offers.
How does leverage work on Questrade?
Leverage is available on margin accounts, letting users borrow money to trade larger positions. For eligible stocks, leverage can be up to 3.33:1, which means you can trade with more funds than you deposit. Forex and CFDs offer leverage up to 20:1, but higher leverage increases both potential gains and risks and is generally intended for experienced traders.
How does Questrade make money?
Questrade earns money through trading commissions, spreads, and other fees. For stocks, commissions range from $4.95 to $9.95 per trade, while buying ETFs is free but selling incurs a commission. Spreads are charged on forex and CFD trades, and additional revenue comes from margin interest, currency conversions, and account-related fees like inactivity charges.
Who is behind Questrade?
Questrade is a privately held Canadian financial services company founded by Edward Kholodenko and his partners. It remains Canadian-owned and headquartered in Toronto, with a team that serves retail investors and traders across the country. The company continually updates its platform and services to remain competitive in the market.
When was Questrade launched?
Questrade was launched in 1999 and has grown to become one of Canada’s leading independent online brokerages. Since its inception, it has focused on making investing more affordable and accessible for Canadian investors by lowering fees and broadening access to international markets.
Does Questrade offer copy trading or social trading?
Questrade does not provide any copy trading or social trading functionality. All trades must be executed by the account holder and there are currently no features to automatically copy the strategies of other traders or join social trading networks within the platform.
How can I contact Questrade’s customer service?
You can reach Questrade’s customer service by phone, live chat, or email. Support is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Time. The website also has a help center with FAQs and detailed guides to address common concerns and help users navigate the platform.
Does Questrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
Questrade regularly runs referral promotions where you and the person you refer can receive bonuses, such as a cash reward or discounted trades when they open and fund a new account. These offers change from time to time, so it's recommended to check the Questrade website for the latest details before signing up.
Is Questrade regulated in CA?
Yes, Questrade is fully regulated in Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), which means accounts are protected up to set limits in case of insolvency. Questrade is also registered with the Ontario Securities Commission and other relevant regulatory bodies.
What is the minimum deposit on Questrade?
There is no minimum deposit required for self-directed trading accounts on Questrade, allowing anyone to get started. For Questwealth managed portfolios, a $1,000 CAD minimum deposit is required to open an account. All deposits must originate from Canadian sources and accounts are only available to Canadian residents.
Does Questrade offer a welcome bonus?
Questrade does not typically offer a welcome bonus such as deposit matches for new clients. However, it has occasionally provided referral programs or promotional offers like cash credits for transfers. It’s best to check their official site for any current promotions or special offers.
How does leverage work on Questrade?
Leverage is available on margin accounts, letting users borrow money to trade larger positions. For eligible stocks, leverage can be up to 3.33:1, which means you can trade with more funds than you deposit. Forex and CFDs offer leverage up to 20:1, but higher leverage increases both potential gains and risks and is generally intended for experienced traders.
How does Questrade make money?
Questrade earns money through trading commissions, spreads, and other fees. For stocks, commissions range from $4.95 to $9.95 per trade, while buying ETFs is free but selling incurs a commission. Spreads are charged on forex and CFD trades, and additional revenue comes from margin interest, currency conversions, and account-related fees like inactivity charges.
Who is behind Questrade?
Questrade is a privately held Canadian financial services company founded by Edward Kholodenko and his partners. It remains Canadian-owned and headquartered in Toronto, with a team that serves retail investors and traders across the country. The company continually updates its platform and services to remain competitive in the market.
When was Questrade launched?
Questrade was launched in 1999 and has grown to become one of Canada’s leading independent online brokerages. Since its inception, it has focused on making investing more affordable and accessible for Canadian investors by lowering fees and broadening access to international markets.
Does Questrade offer copy trading or social trading?
Questrade does not provide any copy trading or social trading functionality. All trades must be executed by the account holder and there are currently no features to automatically copy the strategies of other traders or join social trading networks within the platform.
How can I contact Questrade’s customer service?
You can reach Questrade’s customer service by phone, live chat, or email. Support is available Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Eastern Time. The website also has a help center with FAQs and detailed guides to address common concerns and help users navigate the platform.
Does Questrade offer any promotions or referral programs?
Questrade regularly runs referral promotions where you and the person you refer can receive bonuses, such as a cash reward or discounted trades when they open and fund a new account. These offers change from time to time, so it's recommended to check the Questrade website for the latest details before signing up.
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