My Review of RBC Direct Investing in Canada (July 2025)

My opinion on RBC Direct Investing

Last update: July 2, 2025

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3.6

Score

3.6

Score

P. LauroreFinance expert

RBC Direct Investing stands out as a reliable and robust platform for Canadian investors, backed by the strong reputation and regulatory compliance of the Royal Bank of Canada (established in 1864), and is regulated by CIRO and protected by CIPF.
Fees are transparent, though at $9.95 per stock or ETF trade, they are higher than many discount brokers, but select ETFs and mutual funds can be traded commission-free.
Asset coverage is solid for Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, mutual funds, and GICs, but it does not support direct trading of forex, commodities, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies (exposure only via ETFs).
The platform provides user-friendly and secure web and mobile trading, along with comprehensive research and educational resources, but lacks more advanced features such as copy trading or demo accounts.
Relative to competitors, RBC Direct Investing excels in reliability, product range for long-term investing, and customer service, but is less attractive to active traders seeking low fees or direct access to more speculative products.
The broker is suitable for those seeking safety and broad investment accounts, but has a modest Trustpilot score (2.0/5 from 17 reviews), reflecting some user concerns about fees and service responsiveness.
In my experience, this broker is best suited to the following trader profiles:

➡️ Beginners looking for a regulated, well-established platform with extensive educational materials and access to all basic investment products will find RBC Direct Investing a safe and straightforward entry point.

➡️ Intermediate investors seeking to build diverse, long-term portfolios across Canadian-registered accounts (like RRSP, TFSA) will appreciate the broad product coverage, reliability, and integration with RBC banking.

➡️ Advanced investors who require robust research tools, margin trading, or multiple account types (business, joint, USD) but do not need direct forex, crypto, or CFD trading will benefit from the platform’s strong brand but may find fee structure less competitive.

Pros

• ✅No minimum deposit required for any account type
• ✅Comprehensive range of Canadian and US-listed stocks, ETFs (including select commission-free ETFs), mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options
• ✅Regulated by CIRO and backed by Royal Bank of Canada with CIPF protection
• ✅User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with advanced charting, research, and educational resources
• ✅Supports registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) for efficient tax management
• ✅Commission-free trading on certain ETFs and all mutual funds
• ✅Fast, free deposits and withdrawals between RBC accounts
• ✅Access to RBC in-branch support and robust customer service channels

Cons

• ❌Higher stock and ETF trading commissions ($9.95/trade) compared to discount brokers
• ❌No access to direct forex, CFD, commodity, or crypto trading (crypto ETFs only)
• ❌Inactivity fee applies for balances below $15,000 without regular trading (unless under 26 or with regular contributions)
• ❌No demo account or native copy trading/social trading features

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3.6

Score

3.6

Score

ProsCons

• ✅No minimum deposit required for any account type
• ✅Comprehensive range of Canadian and US-listed stocks, ETFs (including select commission-free ETFs), mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options
• ✅Regulated by CIRO and backed by Royal Bank of Canada with CIPF protection
• ✅User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with advanced charting, research, and educational resources
• ✅Supports registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) for efficient tax management
• ✅Commission-free trading on certain ETFs and all mutual funds
• ✅Fast, free deposits and withdrawals between RBC accounts
• ✅Access to RBC in-branch support and robust customer service channels

My opinion on RBC Direct Investing

Last update: July 2, 2025

P. LauroreFinance expert

Pros

• ✅No minimum deposit required for any account type
• ✅Comprehensive range of Canadian and US-listed stocks, ETFs (including select commission-free ETFs), mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options
• ✅Regulated by CIRO and backed by Royal Bank of Canada with CIPF protection
• ✅User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with advanced charting, research, and educational resources
• ✅Supports registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) for efficient tax management
• ✅Commission-free trading on certain ETFs and all mutual funds
• ✅Fast, free deposits and withdrawals between RBC accounts
• ✅Access to RBC in-branch support and robust customer service channels

Cons

• ❌Higher stock and ETF trading commissions ($9.95/trade) compared to discount brokers
• ❌No access to direct forex, CFD, commodity, or crypto trading (crypto ETFs only)
• ❌Inactivity fee applies for balances below $15,000 without regular trading (unless under 26 or with regular contributions)
• ❌No demo account or native copy trading/social trading features

Discover the broker

3.6

Score

3.6

Score

ProsCons

• ✅No minimum deposit required for any account type
• ✅Comprehensive range of Canadian and US-listed stocks, ETFs (including select commission-free ETFs), mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options
• ✅Regulated by CIRO and backed by Royal Bank of Canada with CIPF protection
• ✅User-friendly web and mobile trading platforms with advanced charting, research, and educational resources
• ✅Supports registered accounts (RRSP, TFSA, RESP, etc.) for efficient tax management
• ✅Commission-free trading on certain ETFs and all mutual funds
• ✅Fast, free deposits and withdrawals between RBC accounts
• ✅Access to RBC in-branch support and robust customer service channels

RBC Direct Investing stands out as a reliable and robust platform for Canadian investors, backed by the strong reputation and regulatory compliance of the Royal Bank of Canada (established in 1864), and is regulated by CIRO and protected by CIPF.
Fees are transparent, though at $9.95 per stock or ETF trade, they are higher than many discount brokers, but select ETFs and mutual funds can be traded commission-free.
Asset coverage is solid for Canadian and US stocks, ETFs, bonds, options, mutual funds, and GICs, but it does not support direct trading of forex, commodities, CFDs, or cryptocurrencies (exposure only via ETFs).
The platform provides user-friendly and secure web and mobile trading, along with comprehensive research and educational resources, but lacks more advanced features such as copy trading or demo accounts.
Relative to competitors, RBC Direct Investing excels in reliability, product range for long-term investing, and customer service, but is less attractive to active traders seeking low fees or direct access to more speculative products.
The broker is suitable for those seeking safety and broad investment accounts, but has a modest Trustpilot score (2.0/5 from 17 reviews), reflecting some user concerns about fees and service responsiveness.
In my experience, this broker is best suited to the following trader profiles:

➡️ Beginners looking for a regulated, well-established platform with extensive educational materials and access to all basic investment products will find RBC Direct Investing a safe and straightforward entry point.

➡️ Intermediate investors seeking to build diverse, long-term portfolios across Canadian-registered accounts (like RRSP, TFSA) will appreciate the broad product coverage, reliability, and integration with RBC banking.

➡️ Advanced investors who require robust research tools, margin trading, or multiple account types (business, joint, USD) but do not need direct forex, crypto, or CFD trading will benefit from the platform’s strong brand but may find fee structure less competitive.

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Why trust Hellosafe?

I’ve personally opened and actively traded with RBC Direct Investing to get a true sense of what it’s like for Canadian users. I explored the entire sign-up process, used both web and mobile platforms for real trades, and tracked my experience with everything from depositing funds to placing stock and ETF orders.

During my review, I paid close attention to platform reliability, the quality of research tools, and how intuitive the site is for both beginner and experienced investors. I also tested customer service repeatedly—both by phone and online—so I could share how responsive support really is when you have questions or run into issues.

I compared RBC Direct Investing directly against other regulated Canadian brokers and leading platforms. My observations here are based entirely on hands-on usage, so you can better judge if RBC Direct Investing fits your needs, whether you’re looking for simplicity, account variety, or registered investment options.

RBC Direct Investing at a Glance

Security & Regulation

RBC Direct Investing offers a high level of security and reliability thanks to its standing as a subsidiary of one of Canada’s largest and most established banks. The platform is tightly regulated by the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and client assets are protected by the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), offering strong investor safeguards. Funds are securely held under the robust banking structure of RBC, separate from the firm’s own finances.

On the risk management side, I appreciate the presence of core order types such as stop loss and stop limit, plus two-factor authentication to protect client accounts. That said, RBC Direct Investing doesn’t provide advanced risk tools such as negative balance protection, mostly because it’s not an FX or leveraged CFD broker. The broker’s credibility is enhanced by a long track record and wide client base, although recent user reviews highlight that support response can be slow and commissions are not the most competitive.

Overall, I view RBC Direct Investing as a particularly robust choice for security-conscious investors in Canada, especially those focused on stocks, ETFs, and long-term portfolios. While not perfect for very active or cost-sensitive traders, it offers a trustworthy and stable environment backed by a leading financial institution.

Fees, Spreads & Commissions

RBC Direct Investing applies a straightforward, fixed-fee structure for most equity and ETF trades, which brings transparency but does not always offer the lowest costs in a competitive market. Paying $9.95 per trade (in USD) for stocks and ETFs may be reasonable for buy-and-hold investors, but it is above the commission-free or ultra-low-fee pricing models now common among major U.S. and some Canadian online brokers. Options trading adds a further $1.25 per contract surcharge to the standard commission, which can add up for active or multi-leg traders.

There are no hidden spreads because trades are routed directly to markets without internalizing order flow, ensuring clarity on execution prices. However, investors should be aware of the currency conversion fee for trades and transfers involving non-USD assets, as the typical spread of 1.5% over the interbank rate is noticeably higher than institutional FX rates and could meaningfully impact returns for cross-border trading or dual-currency portfolios.

Account-level fees are generally low for those who meet basic activity or balance requirements, but the inactivity fee of $25 per quarter (if the account holds under $15,000 and is inactive) can erode returns on small portfolios if not managed carefully. Withdrawal remains free for transfers to RBC accounts, which is a plus, while external wire transfers may incur additional charges.

RBC Direct Investing does not offer CFD, direct crypto, or forex trading. All crypto exposure is exclusively through ETFs, which shifts cost considerations to the ETF provider’s own fee structure. Overall, RBC Direct Investing is not the most cost-efficient solution for frequent traders, but remains accessible and predictable for mainstream investors.

What are the account-related fees?

Tip

To avoid inactivity fees and maximize value, aim to maintain a portfolio above $15,000 or make at least one commissionable trade per quarter. For significant U.S.-Canada currency transfers, consider using Norbert's Gambit to reduce conversion costs.

What are the fees on stocks and ETFs?

Stock and ETF trading at RBC Direct Investing is accessible to a wide range of investors, with one of the simplest and most predictable commission schedules among Canadian banks. However, the $9.95 (USD) commission per trade is uncompetitive for active traders or those with smaller trade sizes. There is no explicit spread fee or custody fee, and overnight financing does not apply to cash equity trading. Trades on some Canadian ETFs may be commission-free, but the selection is limited.

What are the fees on cryptocurrencies?

RBC Direct Investing does not support direct cryptocurrency trading. Investors can gain crypto market exposure only through ETFs or mutual funds, so the fees are set by the fund provider, not RBC. These usually include management expense ratios (MERs) charged annually by the ETF or fund.

What are the fees on CFDs?

RBC Direct Investing does not support CFD trading on any asset class, including stocks, commodities, indices, forex, or cryptocurrencies. Investing in these markets must be done through traditional cash or margin trades, or via ETFs.

Assets & Markets

RBC Direct Investing delivers a broad, conservative range of core assets, prioritizing Canadian and U.S. stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds. I appreciate the depth and liquidity available in individual equities, with access to most major companies across North American exchanges. ETF selection is equally robust, allowing for both passive and tactical strategies via sectoral, market-cap, and thematic options from leading issuers.

A distinctive advantage is the seamless integration with RBC cash, margin, and registered account structures, supporting RRSPs, TFSAs, RESPs, and other tax-advantaged vehicles. This flexibility is valuable for those looking to manage diversified retirement or long-term investment plans without friction. Direct access to mutual funds, GICs, and an extensive primary market for new issues rounds out the platform’s offerings.

On the other hand, I find the absence of direct access to forex, commodities, spot crypto, or any CFD/derivatives markets limiting for active traders or those seeking alternative assets. Brokerage exposure to indices and commodities is only available through ETFs or mutual funds, not as standalone spot or futures contracts. There’s no facility for trading or holding cryptocurrencies directly; the only crypto exposure comes through cryptocurrency ETFs. Investors interested in stablecoins, NFTs, or digital asset staking will not find these features here.

Bonds and fixed income products are accessible for portfolio construction, yet there’s no support for advanced features such as bond ladders or real-time trading in global debt. Overall, RBC Direct Investing is best suited for traditional long-term investors who prioritize security, account variety, and ease of integration with broader banking services, rather than speculative or high-leverage trading.

Trading Tools & Apps

The platform suite at RBC Direct Investing is clearly structured for efficiency and accessibility, offering both a browser-based web interface and a mobile app for iOS and Android. Navigation is straightforward, with major functions—trading, account management, research, and transfers—readily accessible from the dashboard. I find the layout consistent across devices, supporting a seamless transition between desktop and mobile sessions.

Order placement is user-friendly, with all standard types easily accessible: market, limit, stop-loss, stop-limit, trailing stop, and conditional orders. These tools are sufficient for implementing most basic and intermediate trading strategies, especially for spot equities, ETFs, and options. However, the absence of direct access to advanced order tools such as OCO (One Cancels Other) or bracket orders can limit some assets’ risk management and automation, especially for active or systematic traders.

The platform provides a solid selection of built-in charting features. Core technical indicators—moving averages, RSI, MACD, and volume—are available, with interactive charts supporting diverse timeframes and overlays. Still, these charting and technical analysis capabilities are less advanced compared to what’s possible with TradingView or MetaTrader; customization, scripting, or multi-screen studies are not present. Technical and fundamental research tools are a strong point, with integrated news, analyst ratings, and screeners.

Automation options are limited. There is no API, algorithmic trading, copy trading, or integration with third-party platforms like MetaTrader 4/5 or TradingView. While this is aligned with RBC Direct Investing’s regulatory and risk profile, it creates a gap for users seeking algorithmic strategies, trading bots, or advanced order automation found on global multi-asset platforms.

For traditional investors, the mobile and web environments are reliable and intuitive for long-term investing or active management of core North American stocks and ETFs. However, the lack of innovation and customization can make the platform feel restrictive for experienced algorithmic or diversified traders, and there is no support for crypto, staking, or complex derivatives.

Tip

Use the in-depth research and screeners to find high-quality equities and ETFs, and save custom watchlists for efficient portfolio monitoring. If you require advanced charting or automation, consider supplementing RBC Direct Investing with third-party tools for analysis, then place trades through the RBC platform to take advantage of its secure Canadian regulatory framework.

Account Opening and Deposits

Account opening

To open an account with RBC Direct Investing, start online or visit an RBC branch. The process begins by filling out a detailed registration form, where you’ll provide your personal details, financial background, and select your preferred account type (e.g., Cash, Margin, TFSA, RRSP). Canadian regulatory requirements mean you must verify your identity—this involves uploading a government-issued photo ID, a proof of address (like a utility bill or bank statement), and your Social Insurance Number (SIN). For certain account types, additional documentation may be requested.

You’ll also answer a regulatory suitability questionnaire regarding your investment knowledge and objectives. Once you’ve submitted all information and documents, your application is reviewed by RBC Direct Investing. Most accounts are validated within 1–3 business days, but processing may take longer if extra verification is needed. You’ll receive a confirmation email as soon as your account is open and ready to fund.

Good to know

Having your SIN, ID, and proof of address ready in advance will help the account setup go faster. Double-check all information for accuracy to avoid delays, especially during periods of high application volume (e.g., tax season).

Deposits and withdrawals on RBC Direct Investing

RBC Direct Investing offers straightforward funding and withdrawal options for Canadian residents. You can add funds by electronic funds transfer (EFT) from any Canadian bank, bill payment, cheque deposit, or instant internal transfer from an RBC account. All deposits are in CAD or USD—no support for credit cards, e-wallets, stablecoins, or crypto deposits. Processing times are typically 1–2 business days for EFT, while internal transfers between RBC accounts are usually instant; all deposits are free of charge.

Withdrawals can be sent to your linked RBC or other Canadian bank accounts, or requested via cheque. While there are no fees for moving money to RBC accounts, external bank transfers may incur a fee depending on the receiving institution. There is no integrated crypto wallet or fiat-to-crypto conversion, but you can gain exposure to crypto through select ETFs.

Good to know

Always verify your linked bank account details before making a transfer. Plan withdrawals ahead of time—while processing is quick, bank holidays or large withdrawal requests may slow down the release of funds.

Account Types

RBC Direct Investing is a Canadian self-directed brokerage, regulated by CIRO and backed by the Royal Bank of Canada. It is not a CFD/forex broker nor a crypto trading platform—instead, it offers a range of classic cash, margin, and tax-advantaged accounts for trading Canadian and US-listed stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, GICs, and options. There are no demo, Islamic, or crypto-specific accounts, and leveraged or professional trading accounts (such as Raw ECN or professional tiers) are not part of the offering. RBC Direct Investing is focused on providing robust account options for individual investors, families, and corporations seeking long-term investing or active trading within Canada’s regulatory framework.

Tip

Take time to compare the unique advantages of each account type offered by RBC Direct Investing. If you’re a Canadian resident looking for tax efficiency, look into opening a TFSA or RRSP. For multi-currency investing, consider a USD account to avoid frequent currency conversion costs when trading US assets.

Customer reviews

RBC Direct Investing has a Trustpilot score of 2.0 out of 5 based on 17 reviews. Overall, user sentiment shows a mix of reliability for long-term investing and frustration over fees and support responsiveness.

Les utilisateurs mettent en avant plusieurs aspects positifs de la plateforme, notamment :

• Reliable trading platform for Canadian and US securities
• Wide range of account types (cash, margin, registered, and corporate)
• Easy integration with RBC banking services and transfers
• Comprehensive research tools and educational resources
• Access to commission-free ETFs and mutual funds

En revanche, plusieurs points négatifs sont régulièrement évoqués dans les avis :

• Customer support can be slow to respond, especially during volatile markets
• Higher trading commissions compared to discount competitors
• No access to direct crypto trading or forex
• No demo account for practice or platform familiarization
• Commission structure less appealing for active traders

Voici quelques exemples représentatifs d’avis publiés sur Trustpilot :

D.P. – 15/06/2024 : “Customer service is slow and unhelpful, especially during market volatility.”

A.M. – 04/07/2024 : “Platform is reliable but the fees are higher than some competitors.”

L.T. – 09/05/2024 : “Good for long-term investors, but not ideal for active traders due to commission structure.”

FAQ

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.