- What is Stock Market Investing?
- What are the different accounts for investing in the stock market in Canada?
- What to Invest in on the Stock Exchange?
- How to Invest in the Stock Market as a Beginner?
- When to Invest in the Stock Market?
- Why Invest in the Stock Market?
- Which broker to choose for investing in the stock market in Canada?
- How Much Money Do You Need to Invest in the Stock Market?
- What is the taxation on stock investment income in Canada?
- Our 5 Tips for Investing Well in the Stock Market
- All our guides on stock market investing
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What is Stock Market Investing?
Investing in the stock market involves buying financial securities – mainly stocks or bonds – with the aim of making a profit in the medium or long term. These securities are traded on financial markets, where buyers and sellers meet.
Investing in the stock market allows you to become a shareholder in a company (through shares) or a creditor (through bonds). In return, the investor can receive income (dividends or interest) and hope for a capital gain on the resale of the securities. This type of investment is therefore a way to grow your savings by taking advantage of the development of companies and the economy.
Unlike speculation, which relies on short-term operations that are often riskier, investing in the stock market is a long-term approach. It requires a good understanding of how markets work, accepting a degree of risk, and diversifying investments to limit exposure to losses.
What are the different accounts for investing in the stock market in Canada?
To invest in the stock market, it is essential to have a suitable account that will host your financial securities (shares, bonds, ETFs, etc.) and centralize your transactions. In Canada, several types of investment accounts are available, each with its own tax specificities, limits and objectives:
Here is the updated table with an additional column "Investor Profile", to help better target accounts based on individual goals and experience:
To invest in the stock market in Canada, it is essential to choose an investment account tailored to your financial goals, tax situation, and investment horizon. The Canadian system offers several types of accounts, each with its tax advantages and specific features.
Here is a comparison table of the main investment accounts available in Canada:
| Account Type | Taxation | Advantages | Disadvantages | Investor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unregistered Account | Income (interest, dividends, capital gains) taxable annually | No contribution limit; full flexibility in investments and withdrawals | Annual taxation on investment income and capital gains | Experienced investor or has maximized registered accounts |
| Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) | Tax-free income and withdrawals | Tax-sheltered growth; tax-free withdrawals; contribution rights carried over | Non-tax-deductible contributions; annual contribution limit | Investor wishing to save for various short-term or long-term goals |
| Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) | Tax-deductible contributions; taxable withdrawals | Reduction of income tax payable; tax-sheltered growth until withdrawal | Taxation of withdrawals; age limits for contributing and obligation to convert at age 71 | Investor preparing for retirement or with high income |
| First Home Savings Account (FHSA) | Tax-deductible contributions; qualifying withdrawals are tax-free | Combination of TFSA and RRSP benefits for buying a first home | Must be used to purchase a first home; contribution limits | First-time home buyer planning in the medium term |
Financial Intermediaries for Investing in the Stock Market in Canada
Once your account is open, you will need to choose an intermediary to execute your stock market orders. Here are the main options available in Canada:
- Banks and Credit Unions: Offer brokerage services through their online or in-branch platforms. Examples: Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), National Bank of Canada, Bank of Montreal (BMO).
- Online Brokers: Offer competitive fees and access to a wide range of financial products. Examples: Questrade, Wealthsimple Trade, National Bank Direct Brokerage.
- Wealth Managers: Provide personalized support and delegated management of your investments. Examples: Investors Group, Raymond James, RBC Dominion Securities.
- Robo-advisors: Offer automated portfolio management based on your risk profile. Examples: Wealthsimple Invest, BMO SmartFolio.
The choice of intermediary will depend on your investor profile, your financial objectives, and your level of autonomy in managing your investments.
What to Invest in on the Stock Exchange?
The Stock Exchange offers a wide range of financial products allowing you to diversify your portfolio according to your objectives, your risk appetite, and your investment horizon. Here are the main types of assets in which it is possible to invest:
| Asset Type | Risk Level | Return Potential | Liquidity | Recommended Horizon | Management Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stocks | High | High | Very good | Long-term (5+ years) | Active or passive |
| ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) | Moderate to high | Moderate to high | Very good | Medium to long term | Passive or active |
| Mutual Funds | Variable | Variable | Good | Medium to long term | Active |
| Bonds | Low to moderate | Low to moderate | Good | Short to medium term | Active or passive |
Stock Trading
Stocks represent a share of a company's capital. By buying a stock, you become a shareholder and can receive dividends (a share of the profits) as well as hope for a capital gain on resale if the price increases. Stocks are investments with high potential returns, but also with high risk, as their value depends on many factors (company results, economic situation, geopolitics, etc.).
The best stocks to invest in on the stock market depend on your goals and investment style. Thus, you won't invest in the same stocks whether you're looking for a regular return or a significant capital gain.
- For steady returns: prioritize the most stable stocks such as Astrazeneca, Total, or McDonald's.
- For significant capital gain potential: prioritize growth stocks such as Tesla, NVidia, Apple, or Airbus.
Our opinion
Stocks are suitable for investors willing to accept market volatility in exchange for higher long-term return prospects. Sectoral and geographical diversification is essential to limit risks.
ETFs (trackers)
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are index funds listed on the stock exchange. They replicate the performance of an index (such as the S&P/TSX 60, the S&P 500 or the MSCI World) by investing in all the securities that make it up. ETFs trade like stocks, in real time, and allow for broad diversification at a lower cost.
Our opinion
ETFs are particularly suitable for beginner or intermediate investors wishing to easily gain exposure to a market or sector, without having to choose each stock individually. It is an excellent long-term passive management tool.
FCP (Mutual Funds)
Mutual funds are collective investments actively managed by professionals. They pool the savings of several investors to build a diversified portfolio, according to a defined strategy (stocks, bonds, mixed, thematic, geographic, etc.). Unlike ETFs, they are valued once a day, and their fees are generally higher.
Our opinion
Mutual funds are for investors who prefer to delegate their portfolio management to experts. They are well suited to those who wish to benefit from a structured management framework, at the cost of a return often lower than ETFs, due to fees.
Obligations
Bonds are debt securities issued by governments or corporations. When you buy a bond, you lend money to the issuer, who agrees to repay you at maturity, with the payment of regular interest (coupon). Bonds are generally less risky than stocks but offer a more moderate return.
Our Opinion
Bonds are an essential component of a balanced portfolio, particularly for cautious investors or those nearing retirement. They help stabilize overall performance and ensure regular income.
How to Invest in the Stock Market as a Beginner?
More and more young people are getting into stock market investing these days, but there's no age limit to start in this field. However, as a beginner investor, it is necessary to take some precautions before diving in.
- The simplest solution is to entrust the management of your investments to a third party whose job it is, such as a financial advisor, or to software specifically developed for this purpose, such as a robo-advisor.
- It is also possible to make your own investments in the stock market, but in this case, it is preferable to take the time to train and learn about how the markets work before you start investing your money.
- Since an investor does not become profitable overnight, it is also preferable to not invest money in the stock market that you may need to live on or to cope with unforeseen expenses.
- Similarly, it is necessary to put in place a precise investment strategy and ideally in the long term by setting achievable goals and taking risk into account.
When to Invest in the Stock Market?
While it's possible to invest in the stock market at any time, it's essential to identify the right opportunities before buying stocks. To determine if it's the right time to buy shares on the stock market, you should ask yourself these simple questions:
- What is the current economic situation? Is there growth, or are we in a period of crisis?
- What level of risk are you willing to take? An investor with a high appetite for risk will frequently find interesting opportunities in the stock markets, while a cautious investor will prefer to wait before investing.
- What is the real value of a listed stock? The intrinsic value of companies listed on the stock exchange must be defined in order to know if it is the right time to acquire their shares.
- When does the company pay its dividends? Finally, if you have opted for a yield strategy with stocks that allow you to receive a dividend, you must hold these shares no later than the day before the ex-dividend date.
Why Invest in the Stock Market?
Investing in the stock market offers numerous advantages for growing your wealth, protecting your capital against inflation, and diversifying your income streams. Here are the main reasons to invest in the financial markets:
- Grow your savings in the long term: Stock markets have historically generated attractive returns over several decades. Regular, long-term investment allows you to benefit from the growth of businesses and the economy.
- Protect your capital against inflation: Uninvested savings lose value over time. By aiming for a return higher than inflation, the stock market makes it possible to maintain, or even increase, the purchasing power of your capital.
- Generate passive income: Some stocks pay regular dividends. Bonds pay coupons, offering a stable income to the investor.
- Diversify your assets: The stock market makes it possible to supplement real estate investments or secure savings products.
- Good diversification reduces exposure to a single type of asset or risk.
- Easily access global markets: With online brokers and ETFs, it is possible to invest in thousands of companies around the world. This makes it possible to position yourself in different sectors, geographic areas and levels of economic development.
Good to know
The stock market is a powerful tool for investors willing to adopt a long-term vision. When well-managed, a stock portfolio can become a lever for sustainable growth and a pillar of your wealth strategy.
Which broker to choose for investing in the stock market in Canada?
To invest in the stock market, it is essential to go through an approved financial intermediary, called a broker. They transmit your buy and sell orders to the markets. The choice of broker directly influences your investment experience, the fees you pay, the products available, and the tools at your disposal.
Here are the main categories of brokers available in Canada, with their characteristics:
| Type of Broker | Trading Fees | Available Products | Platform Interface | Investor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Broker | Very low to moderate | Stocks, ETFs, bonds, basic derivatives | Web / Mobile | Self-directed, experienced |
| Traditional Bank Broker | High | Stocks, ETFs, mutual funds | Integrated with bank account | Conservative or loyal bank client |
| Specialized CFD / Forex Broker | Variable spreads, sometimes no commission | CFDs on stocks, indices, commodities, Forex | Trading platform | Active trader, speculator |
| Robo-advisor | 0.5% to 1.6% annual management fee | Diversified portfolio via ETFs or mutual funds | Automated interface | Beginner, cautious saver |
Expert Opinion:
- An independent investor who wants to diversify at a lower cost will favour an online broker.
- An active trader will opt for a CFD broker, being aware of the risks.
- A beginner or long-term saver will prefer automated management with a robo-advisor.
- Finally, a cautious profile or one attached to their bank will use a bank broker, despite higher fees.
How Much Money Do You Need to Invest in the Stock Market?
The amount of money needed to invest in the stock market will depend on various factors, including your personal financial situation. Here are the rules to follow if you want to get started:
- Invest a portion of your savings in the stock market: It's important not to put all of your savings into stock market investments. You need to keep some of your savings to use if needed. Ideally, if you can, keep 20% of your capital in a secure investment or a traditional savings vehicle and invest 80% in the stock market.
- Invest in the stock market with a small budget: It is entirely possible to invest in the stock market with a small budget. It is not necessary to have a large amount of capital to start building a stock portfolio. $500 to $1,000 will be enough to create the foundation for it, and you can then reinvest your income from dividends or capital gains to buy new securities.
- Don't put all your eggs in one basket: While the stock market is attractive in terms of returns and investment, it is necessary to distribute the money you invest in the stock market wisely by ensuring that your portfolio is diversified. For example, you can invest part of it in stocks, another part in one or more funds, and another part in bonds.
Investing in the Stock Market with a Small Budget: Our Tips
If you are a beginner investor and want to invest small amounts in the stock market, you have two options:
- Investing your current savings: this is possible from $500 CAD
- Investing a small amount each month: you can also freely make deposits into your stock market investment accounts, such as a securities account, to gradually fund it.
What is the taxation on stock investment income in Canada?
In Canada, the taxation of investment income varies depending on the nature of the income (dividends, interest, capital gains) and the type of account used (registered or non-registered). Here's an overview of the tax rules in effect for the year 2025.
1. Dividends and Interest
- Dividends: Dividends paid by eligible Canadian corporations receive favourable tax treatment through the dividend tax credit. Eligible dividends are grossed up by 38% before being included in income, and then a federal tax credit of 15.02% is applied to the grossed-up amount. Non-eligible dividends are grossed up by 15% with a federal tax credit of 9.03%.
- Interest: Interest income (from bonds, guaranteed investment certificates, etc.) is fully taxable and must be included in annual income.
2. Capital Gains
Capital gains realized from the sale of assets (stocks, ETFs, real estate, etc.) are only taxable when realized. The inclusion rate, i.e., the portion of the gain to be included in taxable income, is 50% for individuals. For example, a capital gain of $10,000 will result in an inclusion of $5,000 in taxable income.
Legislative changes have been proposed to increase the inclusion rate to 66.67% for the portion of capital gains exceeding $250,000 per year, starting June 25, 2024. However, the implementation of this measure has been postponed to January 1, 2026.
3. Taxation by Account Type
| Account Type | Tax Treatment |
|---|---|
| Unregistered Account | Income (interest, dividends, capital gains) taxable annually. |
| Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA) | Growth and withdrawals are tax-free; contributions are not deductible. |
| Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) | Contributions are deductible from taxable income; withdrawals are taxable. |
| First Home Savings Account (FHSA) | Contributions are deductible; qualifying withdrawals are non-taxable for first home purchase. |
4. Capital Loss Deduction
Capital losses can be used to offset taxable capital gains realized in the same tax year. If the losses exceed the gains, the net capital loss can be carried back up to three previous years or carried forward to any future year to reduce taxable capital gains.
5. Exonérations et crédits d'impôt
- Cumulative Capital Gains Exemption (CCGE) : Individuals may be eligible for an exemption on capital gains realized from the sale of qualified small business corporation shares or qualified farm or fishing property, up to $1,250,000 as of June 25, 2024.
- Dividend Tax Credit : As previously mentioned, dividends from eligible Canadian corporations qualify for a tax credit, reducing the amount of tax payable on these earnings.
Our 5 Tips for Investing Well in the Stock Market
Now that you know the general rules of stock market investing, here are five simple tips to follow to quickly become a profitable investor:
- Set achievable goals: Every self-respecting investor should set financial goals for their various investments. These goals will depend on the purpose of the investment. Is it to prepare for retirement, finance a purchase, or a specific project? A motivating goal will be an engine that allows you to devote yourself to your investment with passion.
- Learn about the stock markets: A good understanding of the stock markets and how they work is essential if you want to make profitable investments. So take some time each week to inform and educate yourself. There are many online training modules that allow you to learn analysis methods, and you can also consult targeted financial news feeds.
- Prioritize a long-term investment horizon: Unless you are an expert in the financial markets and want to speculate in the short term in order to generate maximum profits in a short time, it is more prudent to invest with a long investment horizon. Speculation presents many risks that you can avoid with progressive investment.
- Know your risk tolerance: You must define as precisely as possible the level of losses and variability of your capital that you are willing to assume. Remember here that the higher the potential return of an asset or market, the higher its level of risk will be. A strong aversion to risk should direct you towards the least risky instruments such as bonds or certain secured funds. If you have a high tolerance for risk, you can try riskier investments such as stocks or cryptocurrencies.
- Don't let your emotions take over: Finally, investing in the stock market is an activity that can generate a whole host of emotions such as stress, infatuation, or fear. A good investor should not let these feelings cause them to make bad decisions and should always keep their initial strategy in mind and stick to it.
Looking to invest in the stock market independently? Join a quality online broker without delay and start placing your orders on the market.
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