What it does
Qtrade provides Canadian investment accounts with analyst research, screeners, watchlists and portfolio analysis. Portfolio Score evaluates holdings from several perspectives, while Portfolio Simulator compares proposed changes with an existing portfolio. A separate trial gives temporary access to research tools before opening a trading account.
A watchlist follows candidates; a portfolio analysis evaluates investments already held. Qtrade provides both. Portfolio Score examines downside protection, performance, diversification, income, fund expenses and environmental, social and governance characteristics. Its supported holdings include Canadian and US stocks, ETFs and Canadian mutual funds.
Portfolio Simulator lets you add or remove securities in a test portfolio, compare it with an active portfolio and save the scenario. It highlights exposures such as inflation, US currency and interest rates. Use a saved scenario to examine the consequences of a change without confusing it with an executed trade.
The pricing schedule lists zero online commission for equities, ETFs and mutual funds. Options have per-contract charges, while fixed-income trades use face-value-based pricing. Currency conversion, regulatory charges and assisted orders can add costs. Mutual funds sold or switched within 90 days can incur a short-term redemption charge.
The free 30-day trial includes screeners, watchlists, market news and sample analyst reports. Its form asks for a name, email address and phone number. To open an investment account, prepare government ID, a Social Insurance Number, financial details and relevant investment statements. The application uses email confirmation, identity verification and an electronic signature.
Strengths
- Compares several aspects of portfolio risk and composition
- Saves hypothetical allocation changes alongside an active portfolio
- Trial access includes screeners and watchlists
Watch out for
- The research trial lasts 30 days and includes sample analyst reports
- Zero dealing commission does not remove currency, regulatory or product-specific charges
Best for
- Canadian investors evaluating portfolio allocation and risk
- Users who want to explore research tools before opening an account
Sources
- Qtrade investing and research platform (Oct 27, 2026)
- Qtrade Portfolio Score and Simulator controls (Oct 27, 2026)
- Qtrade commission and transaction-cost schedule (Oct 27, 2026)
- Qtrade trial scope and registration (Oct 27, 2026)
- Qtrade investment-account application requirements (Oct 27, 2026)