Which organizations regulate stock trading platforms in Canada?

The Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) is the body that regulates stock trading platforms in Canada. This organization is tasked with overseeing investment dealers, mutual fund dealers and trading activity on debt and equity marketplaces in Canada.

Founded in 2013, Robinhood is a US trading platform that offers zero commissions on stock, option and ETF trades. Its low fees and range of trading options have made the platform popular among traders. However, it's not available to Canadian residents.

How do I choose a stock trading platform?

You'll want to consider things like your experience, goals and budget. Certain platforms are better suited for beginners, whereas other platforms are designed for experts. Some platforms support lots of different assets and offer various account types, while others are more limited. You may prefer a platform that is more user friendly or one that has extensive research tools. Cost is also a major factor, because commissions and fees vary across brokerages—even discount brokerages. Another factor could be the type of provider. You might want to have all your money (investments and savings) within your bank, or you might want to use a more affordable digital investment platform. If you keep these points in mind and do your research, you'll be able to find a trading platform that suits your needs. Learn more in our guide to stock trading in Canada .