Practical, step-by-step guides for Canadian investors, covering everything from opening your first TFSA to building a low-cost ETF portfolio that grows tax-free.
Canadian mutual funds charge an average MER of around 2% per year. Canadian ETFs average closer to 0.20%. That 1.8% gap sounds small, but on a $100,000 portfolio held for 25 years, it compounds into a difference of over $200,000 in final portfolio value. Here’s a direct comparison using real funds available to Canadian investors.
There’s a version of investing that requires no stock picking, no constant rebalancing, and no expensive advisor, just three ETFs and a clear plan. The 3 ETF portfolio is one of the most evidence-backed approaches available to Canadian investors, and it’s simpler to set up than most people expect. Here’s how it works.
For most Canadian DIY investors buying ETFs, Questrade is the better choice, ETF purchases are free and account fees are lower. Wealthsimple Trade makes more sense if you want a simpler experience and don’t mind slightly higher spreads. Here’s the full breakdown.
A TFSA is one of the most powerful investing tools available to Canadians, and yet most people are using it in a way that quietly limits its potential. Opening yours at a low-cost brokerage like Questrade takes about 10 minutes and can save you thousands in fees over a lifetime of investing. This guide walks you through every step.
