Introduction to Questrade Broker
Questrade is a leading online brokerage firm that offers a wide range of investment options to individuals in Canada. As a seasoned investor, I have had the opportunity to explore various brokerage platforms, and Questrade stands out as one of the best in the industry.
In this comprehensive review, I will walk you through the key features and services provided by Questrade, and how it compares to its competitors like Wealthsimple.
In This Review:
- Opening a Questrade Account
- Questrade vs. Wealthsimple – A Comparison
- Questrade Review – Pros and Cons
- Deposit and Withdrawals
- Account Types
- Understanding Questrade Fees
- Questrade in Canada – Features and Services
- Opening a Questrade Practice Account
- Customer Support
- Investment Options
- Questrade Mobile App
- Is Questrade Regulated?
- Questrade FAQ’s
- Conclusion – Is Questrade the Right Broker for You?
| Website | http://www.questrade.com/ |
| Live Chat | YES |
| Telephone | 1.888.783.7866 |
| Broker Type | Market Maker |
| Regulations | IIROC and CIPF |
| Min Deposit | $1,000.00 |
| Account Base Currency | CAD, USD |
| Max Leverage | 30:1 on popular pairs |
| Trading Platforms | Questrade IQ Edge, Web-based, Mobile app, Questrade Global |
| Markets | Forex, CFD’s, Stocks, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Precious Metals, ETFs |
| Bonus Offered | $50 in free trades |
| Funding Options | Interac Online, Bank wire, Online Banking, Cheque, Money Order |
Opening a Questrade Account
Opening an account with Questrade is a simple and straightforward process. Whether you are a seasoned investor or a beginner, you can easily navigate through their user-friendly website to complete the account opening process.
Questrade offers different types of accounts, including Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), and Margin Account, among others. Each account type has its own unique features and benefits, catering to different investment needs.
To open an account, you will need to provide some personal information, such as your name, address, and social insurance number. Questrade takes the security of your information seriously and ensures that all data is encrypted and protected. Once your account is opened, you can start funding it and begin your investment journey.
When it comes to online brokerages in Canada, Questrade and Wealthsimple are two of the most popular choices. Both platforms offer a range of investment options, competitive fees, and user-friendly interfaces. However, there are some key differences that set them apart.
Questrade is known for its robust trading platform, which provides advanced charting tools and customizable layouts. It is an ideal choice for active traders who want to have more control over their investments. On the other hand, Wealthsimple focuses more on passive investing and offers a robo-advisor service that automatically manages your portfolio based on your risk tolerance and investment goals.
In terms of fees, Questrade has a lower commission structure on managed accounts compared to Wealthsimple. Wealthsimple has zero fees for buying and selling equities. Questrade has more features when it comes to trading options and other trading styles that are not available with Wealthsimple.
It is important to consider your investment style and trading frequency when choosing between the two platforms. Check out our Wealthsimple review.
Questrade Vs Wealthsimple Chart
| Questrade | Wealthsimple | |
| Account Options | TFSA, RRSP, Cash, RESP, LIRA, RIF, LIF, FHSA, Forex & CFDs and Corporate Cash accounts | Personal, TFSA, RRSP, Crypto |
| Regulations | IIROC | IIROC |
| Min Deposit | $1000.00 | $0.00 |
| Account Base Currency | CAD, USD | CAD |
| Trading Fees | $4.95 – $9.95 per trade | $0.00, Commission-free |
| Trading Platforms | Questrade IQ Edge, Web-based, Mobile app(IOS/Andriod), Questrade Global | Mobile app – IOS and Andriod |
| Markets | Forex, CFD’s, Stocks, Options, Mutual Funds, Bonds, Precious Metals, ETFs | Stocks, ETFs, Cryptocurrency |
| Bonus Offered* | $50 in free trades | Get 2 Free Stocks |
| Funding Options | Interac Online, Bank wire, Online Banking, Cheque, Money Order, Instant e-transfer | linked chequing or savings account, Online transfer, Instant e-transfer up to $1000 |
| Exchanges Available | TSX, TSXV, NYSE, MX, PINX, BATS, NASDAQ and CNSX | TSX, TSXV, NYSE, NEO and NASDAQ |
Questrade Review - Pros and Cons
Questrade has several advantages that make it a popular choice among Canadian investors.
Pros:
One of the key benefits is its low trading commissions, which can significantly reduce trading costs, especially for active traders.
Additionally, Questrade offers a wide range of investment options, including stocks, options, ETFs, and mutual funds, allowing investors to diversify their portfolios.
Another advantage of Questrade is its user-friendly trading platform. The platform is intuitive and easy to navigate, even for beginners. It provides advanced charting tools, real-time quotes, and customizable layouts, allowing investors to make informed decisions. Questrade also offers a mobile app, which enables investors to trade on the go and stay connected to the market.
Cons:
Despite its numerous advantages, there are a few drawbacks to consider when using Questrade. One of the main concerns is the lack of a robo-advisor service, which may not be suitable for investors who prefer a hands-off approach to investing. Additionally, Questrade charges inactivity fees for accounts with low balances or no trading activity, which can be a disadvantage for infrequent traders.
Deposit and Withdrawals
Questrade offers convenient options for depositing and withdrawing funds from your account. You can fund your account through electronic funds transfer (EFT), wire transfer, or by mailing a cheque. Questrade also supports pre-authorized deposit (PAD), allowing you to set up regular contributions to your account.
To withdraw funds, you can request a withdrawal through the Questrade client portal. Withdrawals can be made through EFT or cheque. It is important to note that Questrade charges a fee for outgoing EFT withdrawals, so it is advisable to plan your withdrawals accordingly.
| Funding method | Processing time | Currency |
|---|---|---|
| Instant deposit (Visa and Interac Debit cards) Learn more about Instant deposit | For Visa deposits, the money appears instantly in your Questrade account. For Interac deposits, these may need additional validation by Interac which may delay the processing time. | CAD only |
| Online banking bill payment Learn more about bill payments | 1-2 business days | CAD only |
| Pre-authorized deposit (PAD) | 3-4 business days when the total daily deposit amount is under $10,000. Up to 7 business days when the total daily deposit amount is $10,000 or more, or when using a void cheque. | CAD & USD |
| Transfers from another bank or broker Learn more about transfers This funding method is not supported for FX & CFD accounts. | It can take 20 business days or more to receive your holdings from the outgoing financial institution. 1-2 additional business days after we receive your assets from the outgoing financial institution. | CAD & USD |
| Wire transfer | 1-2 business days | CAD & USD |
| Certified cheque, bank draft, or money order* *Money orders are only accepted from major Canadian banks (TD, RBC, BMO, etc.) and not Western Union or Canada Post. | 1-2 business days | CAD & USD |
| Non-certified cheque | CAD non-certified cheques are held for 10 calendar days USD non-certified cheques are held for 15 calendar days | CAD & USD |
| Stock certificate Learn more about stock certificates This funding method is not supported for FX & CFD accounts. | We temporarily cannot process physical stock certificate deposits at this time. Please see the linked article for DRS deposit options. | CAD & USD |
Account Types
Questrade provides a variety of account types to suit different investment needs. Some of the popular account types offered by Questrade include Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), Margin Account, and Locked-In Retirement Account (LIRA).
A RRSP is a tax-advantaged account designed for retirement savings. Contributions made to a RRSP are tax-deductible, and any investment growth within the account is tax-deferred until withdrawal. A TFSA, on the other hand, allows you to contribute after-tax dollars, and any investment growth within the account is tax-free. A Margin Account allows you to borrow against the securities held in your account, providing you with additional buying power.
Understanding the different account types offered by Questrade is crucial in determining the most suitable option for your investment goals. It is recommended to consult with a financial advisor or do thorough research to ensure you choose the right account type for your needs.
Complete List of Questrade Account Types:
- TFSA
- RRSP
- Cash/Margin
- RESP LIRA, RIF, LIF,
- FHSA – Tax-Free first home savings account
- Forex & CFDs
- Corporate Cash accounts
Understanding Questrade Fees
Fees are an important consideration when choosing an online brokerage. Questrade offers a competitive fee structure that is designed to minimize costs for investors. Here are the main fees to be aware of when using Questrade:
- Trading Commissions: Questrade charges a flat fee per trade. The commission structure varies depending on the type of security being traded. For stocks, the commission starts at $4.95 per trade and increases based on the number of shares. Options trading is subject to a base fee plus a per contract fee.
- Account Inactivity Fees: Questrade charges an inactivity fee of $24.95 per quarter for accounts with a balance below $1,000 and no trading activity for three consecutive months. This fee can be avoided by maintaining a minimum balance or conducting at least one trade per quarter.
- Withdrawal Fees: Questrade charges a fee for outgoing EFT withdrawals. The fee is $20 for Canadian currency withdrawals and $30 for U.S. currency withdrawals.
It is important to review the fee schedule provided by Questrade to fully understand the costs associated with your investment activities. By being aware of the fees, you can make informed decisions and optimize your investment returns.
Questrade in Canada - Features and Services
Questrade offers a range of features and services that cater to the needs of Canadian investors. Here are some of the key features and services provided by Questrade:
- Questrade IQ Edge and Edge Mobile: Questrade IQ Edge is a powerful and customizable trading platform that provides advanced charting tools, real-time quotes, and market data. It is designed for active traders who require more control and flexibility in their trading activities.
- Questrade Mobile App: The Questrade mobile app allows investors to trade on the go and stay connected to the market. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides access to real-time quotes, advanced order types, and account monitoring.
- Questrade Practice Account: Questrade offers a practice account that allows investors to practice trading without using real money. The practice account provides access to all the features and tools available in a live account, allowing investors to test their strategies and gain confidence before investing real funds.
- Questrade Customer Support: Questrade provides excellent customer support through multiple channels, including phone, email, and live chat. Their support team is knowledgeable and responsive, ensuring that any questions or concerns are addressed promptly.
- Educational Resources: Questrade offers a wide range of educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and articles, to help investors enhance their knowledge and skills. The educational resources cover various topics, from basic investing concepts to advanced trading strategies.
Opening a Questrade Practice Account
Before diving into live trading with Questrade, it is advisable to open a practice account.
A practice account allows you to familiarize yourself with the trading platform and test different investment strategies without risking real money. Opening a practice account with Questrade is quick and easy.
To open a practice account, visit the Questrade website and click on the “Open an Account” button. You will be guided through a series of steps to provide your personal information and complete the account creation process. Once your practice account is set up, you can log in and start exploring the features and tools available.
The practice account provides a simulated trading environment that mirrors the live trading experience. You will have access to real-time market data, advanced charting tools, and a wide range of investment options. This allows you to practice trading strategies, test different order types, and gain confidence in your investment decisions.
It is important to note that the funds in a practice account are virtual and cannot be withdrawn or transferred to a live account. The practice account is purely for educational purposes and serves as a valuable tool for honing your trading skills before venturing into live trading.
Questrade Customer Support and Resources
Questrade prides itself on providing excellent customer support to its clients. The support team is knowledgeable and responsive, ensuring that any queries or concerns are addressed promptly. There are multiple channels through which you can reach Questrade’s customer support, including phone, email, and live chat.
If you have any questions or issues regarding your account, trading platform, or specific investment products, you can contact Questrade’s customer support team for assistance. They are available during market hours and are dedicated to providing the best possible support to their clients.
In addition to customer support, Questrade offers a wealth of educational resources to help investors enhance their knowledge and skills. These resources include webinars, tutorials, articles, and a comprehensive knowledge base. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced investor, you can find valuable information and insights to improve your investment strategies.
Questrade’s educational resources cover a wide range of topics, including investment basics, trading strategies, technical analysis, and risk management. The resources are designed to be easily accessible and cater to different learning styles. Whether you prefer watching webinars, reading articles, or attending live events, there is something for everyone.
Questrade Brokerage Services - Investment Options
Questrade offers a wide range of investment options to cater to the diverse needs of investors. Whether you are interested in stocks, options, ETFs, mutual funds, or fixed income securities, Questrade has you covered. Here are the main investment options available through Questrade:
- Stocks: Questrade allows you to trade stocks listed on major Canadian and U.S. exchanges. You can buy and sell individual stocks, build a diversified portfolio, and take advantage of market opportunities.
- Options: Options trading is available through Questrade, allowing you to trade options contracts on various underlying securities. Options can be used for hedging, speculation, or generating income through covered calls.
- ETFs: Questrade offers a wide selection of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) covering various asset classes and sectors. ETFs provide investors with diversification, low costs, and the flexibility to trade throughout the day.
- Mutual Funds: Questrade provides access to a vast selection of mutual funds from leading fund providers. Mutual funds are professionally managed investment vehicles that offer diversification and are suitable for long-term investors.
- Fixed Income Securities: Questrade allows you to invest in fixed income securities, such as government bonds, corporate bonds, and GICs. Fixed income securities provide regular income and are considered less volatile than stocks.
By offering a wide range of investment options, Questrade ensures that investors have the flexibility to build a well-diversified portfolio that aligns with their investment goals and risk tolerance.
Questrade Mobile App - Trading on the Go
Questrade offers a mobile app that allows investors to trade on the go and stay connected to the market. The Questrade mobile app is available for both iOS and Android devices and provides a seamless trading experience.
The mobile app provides access to real-time quotes, advanced order types, and account monitoring. You can easily place trades, track your portfolio performance, and manage your account from the palm of your hand.
The app is intuitive and user-friendly, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced investors.
One of the key features of the Questrade mobile app is the ability to customize your watchlists and receive real-time notifications.
You can create personalized watchlists to monitor your favorite stocks, ETFs, or other investment products. The app will send you notifications when there are significant price changes or news events related to the securities in your watchlists.
The Questrade mobile app also provides access to market research and analysis tools. You can view analyst ratings, company profiles, and financial statements to make informed investment decisions. The app also offers real-time market news and insights, keeping you updated on the latest market trends and developments.
Whether you are commuting, traveling, or simply prefer to trade from your mobile device, the Questrade mobile app allows you to stay connected to the market and manage your investments effectively.
Comparing Questrade to Other Brokers
When choosing an online brokerage, it is important to compare different options to find the one that best suits your investment needs.
Questrade is a top choice for many Canadian investors, but it is always worth considering alternatives. Here are a few key points to consider when comparing Questrade to other brokers:
- Fees: Compare the commission structure, account fees, and other charges to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money. Consider your investment style and trading frequency to determine which fee structure is most favorable for you.
- Investment Options: Look at the range of investment options offered by different brokers. Consider whether they provide access to the types of securities you are interested in, such as stocks, options, ETFs, or mutual funds.
- Trading Platforms: Evaluate the trading platforms offered by different brokers. Consider factors such as ease of use, advanced charting tools, real-time quotes, and mobile trading capabilities.
- Customer Support: Assess the quality of customer support provided by different brokers. Consider factors such as response times, availability of different support channels, and the knowledge and expertise of the support team.
- Regulation: Ensure that the broker you choose is regulated by a reputable regulatory body. Regulation provides a level of protection for investors and ensures that the broker operates in a fair and transparent manner.
By comparing different brokers based on these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the brokerage that best meets your investment goals and preferences.
Is Questrade Regulated?
Yes, Questrade is regulated. It is registered with several regulatory bodies in Canada, including the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF).
These regulatory bodies ensure that Questrade complies with industry standards, protects investor assets, and maintains financial stability.
As a regulated brokerage platform, Questrade is required to adhere to strict compliance requirements and implement safeguards to protect investors.
This regulatory oversight provides investors with increased transparency, accountability, and peace of mind when using Questrade’s services.
Questrade FAQ's
Q: What is Questrade?
A: Questrade is a Canadian online brokerage firm that provides self-directed investing and wealth management services. It offers a range of investment options, including stocks, options, ETFs, mutual funds, and more. Questrade aims to provide affordable and accessible investing options for both experienced and new investors.
Q: How do I open an account with Questrade?
A: Opening an account with Questrade is a simple and straightforward process. You can start by visiting their website and clicking on the “Open an Account” button. From there, you’ll be guided through a series of steps to provide your personal information, financial details, and identification. Once your account application is approved, you can fund your account and start investing.
Q: What are the fees associated with Questrade?
A: Questrade offers competitive pricing and has a fee structure that caters to different types of investors. The fees vary depending on the type of account and the specific investment products you choose. For example, stock trades have a fee of $4.95 to $9.95 per trade, while ETF purchases are commission-free. It’s best to review Questrade’s pricing page or contact their customer service for detailed information on fees.
Q: Is Questrade safe and reliable?
A: Questrade is a reputable and well-established brokerage firm in Canada. It is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). These organizations provide protection for investor accounts and ensure compliance with industry regulations. Additionally, Questrade has implemented various security measures to protect client information and uses advanced encryption technology for online transactions.
Q: Can I trade options with Questrade?
A: Yes, Questrade offers options trading to its customers. Options allow investors to speculate on the price movement of a specific security, hedge against potential losses, or generate income through various strategies. Questrade provides a user-friendly platform for options trading, along with educational resources to help investors understand the intricacies of options trading.
Q: Does Questrade provide research tools and educational resources?
A: Yes, Questrade offers a range of research tools and educational resources to help investors make informed decisions. The platform provides real-time market data, stock screeners, and technical analysis tools. Additionally, Questrade has a resource center with articles, videos, webinars, and tutorials on various investing topics. They also offer a virtual trading simulator where users can practice trading strategies without risking real money.
Q: Can I invest in international markets with Questrade?
A: Yes, Questrade allows investors to trade on various international markets, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. You can access and trade stocks, ETFs, and other investment products listed on these international exchanges. Questrade provides competitive forex rates for currency conversions and offers multi-currency accounts, allowing investors to hold and trade in different currencies.
Q: How can I contact Questrade customer support?
A: Questrade provides customer support through various channels. You can reach their support team via phone, email, or live chat. They also have an extensive help center on their website, where you can find answers to frequently asked questions and access various resources. Questrade’s customer service is known for its responsiveness and helpfulness in addressing client inquiries and concerns.
Conclusion - Is Questrade the Right Broker for You?
In conclusion, Questrade can be a suitable broker for many investors, but it ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences.
If you value low trading fees and a wide range of investment options, Questrade’s competitive pricing and extensive selection of investments may be appealing to you. Their commission-free ETF purchases and low-cost trading platforms can help you save money in the long run.
Additionally, Questrade’s user-friendly interface and educational resources make it a good choice for beginners who are looking to learn more about investing. The platform offers a variety of tools and research materials to help you make informed investment decisions.
However, if you prioritize access to personalized advice and extensive customer support, Questrade may not be the best fit for you. While they do offer some support channels, such as live chat and phone support, it may not be as comprehensive as what is offered by traditional full-service brokers.
Ultimately, it’s important to carefully evaluate your investment goals, trading style, and level of experience before choosing a broker. Consider your priorities and weigh the pros and cons of Questrade against other brokers in the market to determine if it is the right fit for you.
About This Review
*A portion of the Sign up links to brokers websites are affiliate links. We may receive a commission with no charge to you. This enables us to keep creating helpful forex trading content for our readers for free.
