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Wealthsimple Self-Directed review

Zero-commission trading with the simplest app in Canada, best for straightforward buy-and-hold investing.

By SCFinance Data Team · edited by SCFinance Editorial TeamUpdated Aug 11, 2026 Fact checkedEditorial integrity

The bottom line

Zero-commission trading with the simplest app in Canada, best for straightforward buy-and-hold investing.

SCFinance score4.5

Wealthsimple Self-Directed

Stock commission: $0
Account minimum: $0
FX conversion: 1.5%

Pros

✓ $0 commission on stocks and ETFs
✓ No account minimum
✓ Fractional shares

Cons

✕ FX fee unless you pay for USD accounts
✕ Lighter research tools

Details

Stock trades: $0
Account minimum: $0
Fractional shares: Yes

What you get

Commission-free stock and ETF trades
Fractional shares from $1

Compare to alternatives

Questrade

SCFinance score4.7

Read review

Stock commission

$4.95 - $9.95

Account minimum

$1,000

FX conversion

1.5%

Commission rebate for new accounts

Details

Stock trades: $4.95 - $9.95
ETF purchases: Free
Account minimum: $1,000

What you get

Buy ETFs commission-free
TFSA, RRSP, FHSA, RESP and margin accounts

Our take

The long-standing low-cost choice for Canadian self-directed investors, with free ETF purchases and every registered account type.

Read our full review

Qtrade Direct Investing

SCFinance score4.4

Read review

Stock commission

$8.75

Account minimum

FX conversion

1.6%

Details

Stock trades: $8.75
Free ETFs: 100+

What you get

100+ free-to-trade ETFs
Award-winning research and screeners

Our take

Consistently top-ranked for service and research, with a list of ETFs you can buy and sell free.

Read our full review

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