Non-Registered Investment Cash Accounts (CDN/U.S.)

So you’re ready to enter the world of online trading. Great! The first step is to open a trading account.

Use a non-registered investment cash account to:

• Hold a diversified portfolio and choose from a wide array of investments – stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), mutual funds, GICs, money market investments, bonds, and more
• Access to North American exchanges and over-the-counter markets
• Designate someone to place orders on your behalf, if you wish

Investment cash accounts may be used to save for shorter term goals such as a new car, or to supplement a longer term goal like a retirement savings. These types of accounts can be individually or jointly held.

It’s important to remember that any capital gains, dividends, interest or coupon payments earned through this type of account are taxable.

Investment accounts can be held in both Canadian and U.S. dollars. Tip: if you’re planning to actively trade securities on U.S. exchanges, you might want to do so from the USD side of your investment account. This will help you minimize currency exchange costs. Read Dual Currency FAQs to learn more.

Note that investment cash accounts do not automatically allow you to trade options or to trade on margin. If you’re interested, you can apply for a margin account or an options-enabled account. You can also choose to add these features to an existing account.