Trade Better, Pay Less
Questrade is a Canadian online broker that makes it easy to invest in securities like stocks, ETFs, options, forex, CFDs, and precious metals. Regulated by CIRO, AMF and OSC, Questrade stands out with zero-commission stock trading and a robust suite of trading platforms tailored for both beginners and pros.
Expert Reviewer Verdict
Questrade is a compelling choice for Canadian investors seeking full-featured trading and low costs. With $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs, and just $0.99 per options contract, it appeals to cost-conscious beginners and active traders alike. Its powerful ecosystem of platforms is made to grow with you as you progress as a trader, offering a beginner-friendly app, QuestMobile, and the Questrade Edge suite that’s engineered for frequent trading. Add in advanced trading tools like TipRanks and TradingView integration, as well as a wide range of accounts to support diverse financial goals, and Questrade becomes a strong contender for those who value performance and savings.
The current notable drawback is that crypto trading isn’t fully available yet, but with strong regulatory backing and no annual or inactivity fees, Questrade delivers a balanced, investor-friendly experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- $0 Commission on Stocks and ETFs
- Options Trades at $0 + $0.99/Contract
- No Account Opening or Inactivity Fees
- Real-Time Market Data & Snap Quotes
- High-Performance Managed Investing Accounts
Cons
- Crypto Trading Not Yet Available
- Currency Conversion Fee of 1.5%
- Wire Withdrawals Incur a Fee
Trust and Safety
Security You Can Count On
Questrade takes trust and client safety seriously, with strong oversight and layered protection. As a CIRO-registered broker and licensed in all Canadian provinces and territories, it operates under stringent regulatory standards, including oversight by the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). Fraud prevention is built into the platform with mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) via app, SMS, or email, along with real-time login alerts and detailed transaction history for added transparency. Users are also guided through best practices with Questrade’s dedicated security centre.
Client fund protection is equally robust. As a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), client accounts are protected up to set limits in case of insolvency. Additionally, Questrade goes above and beyond to protect your account with an extra $10million in private insurance.
|
Regulatory Body |
Status |
|
ASIC |
No |
|
CySEC |
No |
|
DFSA |
No |
|
EFSA |
No |
|
FCA |
No |
|
FMA |
No |
|
FSA (SC) |
No |
|
FSCA |
No |
|
FSC |
No |
|
JFSA |
No |
|
MAS |
No |
|
MiFID |
No |
Tradable Instruments
Wide Range of Asset Choices
Questrade is a Canadian online brokerage that empowers investors with a vast range of global securities — from stocks and options to forex and precious metals — providing the flexibility to build a truly diversified portfolio. The platform also supports trading in fractional shares (commission-free and executed in real-time), making it easier for investors to diversify even with smaller amounts.
For those interested in emerging markets, Questrade offers exposure to cryptocurrencies through crypto ETFs, with full crypto trading listed as “coming soon.” Commodities and indices are available via CFDs, providing further opportunities for diversification and strategy. Whether you’re a long-term investor focused on retirement planning or an active trader exploring global markets, Questrade’s product range supports a wide variety of investment goals and experience levels.
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Trading Instrument |
Available |
|
COMMODITIES |
Yes |
|
CURRENCIES |
Yes |
|
CRYPTOCURRENCIES |
Yes |
|
ETF |
Yes |
|
FUTURES |
Yes |
|
INDICES |
Yes |
|
STOCKS |
Yes |
|
BONDS |
Yes |
|
OPTIONS |
Yes |
Account Types
Accounts for Every Goal
Questrade offers a versatile range of account types tailored to fit virtually every Canadian investor’s needs. For retirement savings, users can choose from RRSPs, Spousal RRSPs, RRIFs, LIRAs, and LIFs—each designed to optimize tax benefits while preparing for the future. Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs) provide another powerful option, allowing investors to grow wealth without tax on withdrawals or gains.
For more specific goals, like education planning, Questrade offers both self-directed and managed RESPs. And, for aspiring homeowners, Questrade was the first in Canada to launch the FHSA, a specialized account that combines the tax advantages of both RRSPs and TFSAs.
Whether you’ve got short-term goals like a vacation, or bigger picture ones like retirement, a first home, or a child’s education, what’s clear is this: whatever you’re saving for, Questrade has a way to help you get there. There’s an offering for different investing styles, too, with tools made for self-directed traders and Questwealth Portfolios, a low-fee managed investing experience for those who prefer a hands-off approach. There’s even a solution for individuals that prefer U.S. dollars as every Questrade account supports holding dual currency.
|
Account Type |
Available |
|
DEMO ACCOUNT |
No |
|
ISLAMIC ACCOUNT |
No |
|
SEGREGATED ACCOUNT |
No |
|
MANAGED ACCOUNT |
Yes |
|
SUITABLE FOR BEGINNERS |
Yes |
|
SUITABLE FOR PROFESSIONALS |
Yes |
|
US TRADER |
Yes |
Commission and Fees
Low Cost, No Surprises
Questrade stands out for its transparent and competitive fee structure, making it appealing to both cost-conscious beginners and active traders. With zero commissions on stock and ETF trades, plus minimal charges on options and other services, investors benefit from an experience that doesn’t just focus on making trading easier, but making each trade more valuable, too.
Account Minimum
There is no minimum deposit required to open an account, making Questrade accessible to new and experienced investors alike. For managed Questwealth Portfolios accounts, at least $250 needs to be added before the money will be invested.
Trading Fees
Stock and ETF trades are commission-free. Options trades are $0 plus $0.99 per contract.
CFD Fees
Stock CFD trades incur a 0.10–0.15% fee based on the trade value, with a minimum charge. Index and commodity CFDs are priced based on a target spread. Overnight CFD positions also incur a financing fee.
Forex Fees
Forex trading fees include the target spread on each trade, along with a rollover fee for overnight positions.
Futures Fees
Not applicable.
Account Fee
Questrade does not charge annually.
Inactivity Fee
No inactivity fees are charged.
Deposit Fee
Electronic deposits are free, though some banks may charge a processing fee for wire transfers
Withdrawal Fee
EFT withdrawals are free. Wire transfers and cheque requests incur fees, especially for high-value EFTs that exceed specific thresholds.
Overnight Funding Fee
No overnight funding fees apply
Currency Conversion Fee
Questrade charges a 1.5% currency conversion fee, included in the total exchange rate.
Guaranteed Stop Order Fee
Questrade does not offer guaranteed stop orders.
Trading Platforms
Advanced Tools for Better Trading
Questrade offers a robust lineup of trading platforms suited for every level of investor. Whether you’re placing basic stock orders or executing advanced multi-leg options strategies, their tools are built for speed, clarity, and control. From desktop to mobile, each platform is designed to deliver a seamless experience with access to top-rated research and customizable features.
Mobile Trading Apps
Questrade provides two mobile platforms: QuestMobile, ideal for everyday investors managing stocks and ETFs, and Edge Mobile, tailored for active traders seeking advanced charting, order types, and complex strategies—all from a phone or tablet.
Web Trading Apps
The web-based versions of Questrade Trading and Questrade Edge allow users to securely trade, analyze performance, and research investments with ease, giving them access to tools like TipRanks and Seeking Alpha. Edge further expands on this suite of tools with access to OptionsPlay—all for free.
Desktop Trading Apps
Questrade Edge Desktop offers enhanced features for serious traders, including stock screeners, options P&L calculators, and heat maps via Questrade Plus.
|
Trading Platform |
Available |
|
MT4 |
No |
|
MT5 |
No |
|
CTRADER |
No |
|
PROPRIETARY |
No |
|
Desktop and Web Platform |
Available |
|
DESKTOP WINDOWS |
Yes |
|
DESKTOP MAC |
Yes |
|
WEB PLATFORM |
Yes |
|
Mobile Platform |
Available |
|
ANDROID |
Yes |
|
iOS |
Yes |
Unique Features
Standout Tools and Perks
Questrade sets itself apart with a blend of powerful features designed to empower both new and experienced investors. From your first investment to implementing professional-grade strategies, there’s a platform for you, paired with advanced research tools like TipRanks, TradingView integration, and OptionsPlay—all helping users by providing information to help support informed decision making to effectively manage their risk. There are no ECN or annual fees, which adds real savings over time. When investors are ready to take their performance even further, they have access to Questrade Plus, an optional subscription addon that unlocks even more advanced features. And, for those who want to be rewarded for their progress, not just the value of their account, the Questrade Reserve program offers incentives like RRSP contribution matching. With $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs, combined with intelligent tools and a cost-friendly structure, Questrade offers a well-rounded and modern investing experience.
Research and Education
Learn, Research, and Trade Smart
Questrade supports investors with a strong foundation of research and educational tools designed to build confidence and improve decision-making. Users get access to TipRanks, a leading analyst-rating platform that includes SmartScore analytics for trade ideation.
For options traders, OptionsPlay offers strategy guidance with risk management insights, all free of charge. Those who prefer charting and social sentiment can link their accounts to TradingView and trade directly through its interface. Questrade also provides a built-in Learning Mode in its QuestMobile app, helping newer investors navigate the platform and market basics with ease. From analyst insights to hands-on tutorials, Questrade creates an environment where both beginners and advanced traders can grow their skills while staying fully informed. It also offers educational live streams on core investing topics, ranging from order types to charting to options trading, as part of the Questrade Plus offering.
Customer Support
Support That Speaks Your Language
Questrade offers award-winning customer support that’s available seven days a week. Live agents are accessible via chat, phone, email, and even in-person for those who prefer direct interaction. Weekday support runs from 7:30 AM to 8 PM ET, with weekend hours from 10 AM to 4 PM ET. Questrade goes a step further by providing multilingual service in English, French, and Mandarin—making support more accessible to a diverse range of clients. Recognized with the DALBAR Seal of Service Excellence for six consecutive years, Questrade’s service stands out in the industry.
Beyond just answering questions, their support team aims to empower users through detailed educational resources and intuitive tools built into their platforms, such as the Learning Mode in QuestMobile. Whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned trader, Questrade ensures you’re never left navigating alone.
Account Opening
Quick and Paperless Start
Opening an account with Questrade is a smooth, fully digital experience designed to get you trading quickly and confidently.
Opening an account with Questrade is a smooth, fully digital experience designed to get you trading quickly and confidently.
Registration: Start by filling out a brief lead form with your basic contact details—name, email, and phone number—to create your user ID and password.
Verification: You’ll be prompted to verify your phone number and email to confirm your identity and continue the process securely.
Account set up: Choose how you want to invest (self-directed or managed investing) and what account you want to open (TFSA, RRSP, Margin, etc.).
Complete profile: Once you pick your account, you’ll enter e-sign a few forms and provide some more information like your residential address, date of birth, employment, and tax residency.
Questrade’s user-friendly onboarding process is designed for all experience levels—offering a fast, secure, and intuitive way to go around investing.
Deposit and Withdrawals
Flexible Funding, Easy Access
Questrade makes it easy to move money in and out of your account with a variety of secure methods.
Deposits: You can fund your account through bill payment, pre-authorized deposit, wire transfer, account transfer, Interac e-Transfer, or Visa Debit. There are no deposit fees for electronic methods, and processing times vary depending on the option chosen.
Withdrawals: Questrade supports Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT), account transfers, wire transfers, and cheques. EFT withdrawals are free, while wire transfers and cheques carry a small fee. For EFTs over $50,000 CAD or $25,000 USD, allow extra time for processing.
Transfers: Moving an account to Questrade is fast and easy, too. The process is done online and Questrade reimburses fees your current institution charges, up to $150 per account.
With no hidden charges on standard transactions and multiple funding options, Questrade ensures your money is always within reach.
Final Thoughts
Questrade offers a compelling package for Canadian investors looking for reliable full-featured trading and low costs. With $0 commissions on stocks and ETFs, no annual or inactivity fees, it caters well to both beginners and seasoned traders. Its wide range of registered and non-registered accounts, paired with sophisticated platforms like Questrade Edge and QuestMobile, provides flexibility and power. Investors also benefit from industry-leading research tools, a strong focus on security, and award-winning customer support available seven days a week.
While crypto trading is set to arrive soon, Questrade’s transparency, investor protections, and strong educational resources make it a smart, cost-effective choice for growing and managing wealth in Canada.
Contact Info
5700 Yonge St., North York, ON
FAQs
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Question: Is There a Minimum Deposit to Open a Questrade Account?
Answer: No, Questrade has a $0 minimum deposit requirement for self-directed investing accounts. Managed investing accounts need $250 for the funds to be invested. -
Question: Does Questrade Charge Inactivity Fees?
Answer: No, Questrade does not charge any inactivity fees, even if you don’t trade regularly. -
Question: What are the Trading Fees for Stocks and Options?
Answer: Stock and ETF trades are commission-free. Options trades cost $0 plus $0.99 per contract. -
Question: Can I trade Cryptocurrencies with Questrade?
Answer: You can currently trade crypto ETFs, but direct cryptocurrency trading is not yet available.
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