Desjardins Online Brokerage Review (Disnat)

In the ever-evolving landscape of online investing, finding the right brokerage platform can be the key to unlocking your financial potential. Among the myriad choices available to Canadian investors, Desjardins Online Brokerage, known as Disnat, shines as a platform designed to empower investors of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced trader or just beginning your investment journey, Disnat offers a comprehensive suite of tools and resources to help you navigate the complex world of financial markets.

In this comprehensive review of Disnat, we’ll take you on a journey through its essential features, benefits, and capabilities. We’ll explore how Disnat can be your trusted partner in achieving your investment goals, whether you’re looking to build a diversified portfolio, execute advanced trading strategies, or simply stay informed about market trends.

Join us as we delve into the world of Disnat, a platform that combines user-friendliness with robust functionalities to provide you with a seamless online investing experience.

What Is Desjardins Online Brokerage (Disnat)?

Desjardins Online Brokerage, often referred to simply as Disnat, is a well-established online brokerage platform in Canada. It’s a part of the Desjardins Group, one of the largest financial cooperatives in the world. Disnat offers a suite of investment and trading services designed to cater to the needs of a diverse range of investors, from beginners to experienced traders.

As we dive into the details of Disnat, you’ll discover how this platform can empower you to take control of your investments and pursue your financial goals with confidence.

Getting Started with Disnat

Account Types

Before you can begin your investment journey with Disnat, it’s essential to understand the account types available to you. Disnat offers a variety of account options, including:

• Cash Accounts: Suitable for trading equities, fixed-income securities, and mutual funds.
• Margin Accounts: Allows for margin trading, where you can borrow funds to leverage your investments.
• Registered Accounts: Includes Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs), Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs), and more, providing tax advantages for long-term savings.

Each account type serves a specific purpose and may have unique tax implications. Choosing the right account type is a critical decision when setting up your Disnat account.

Account Setup Process

Setting up your Disnat account is a straightforward process. It typically involves the following steps:

1. Online Application: Begin by visiting the Disnat website and completing the online application. You’ll be asked to provide personal information and select your account type.

2. Identity Verification: To comply with regulatory requirements, you’ll need to verify your identity. This may involve providing government-issued identification and proof of address.

3. Funding Your Account: Once your account is approved, you can fund it by transferring funds from your bank account. Disnat provides multiple funding options.

Funding Your Account

Funding your Disnat account is a crucial step to start investing. You can transfer funds from your existing bank account to your Disnat account through various methods:

• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): A convenient and secure way to transfer funds electronically from your bank to your Disnat account.

• Cheque Deposit: You can also fund your account by depositing a cheque made payable to Desjardins Securities Inc.

• Transfer from Another Financial Institution: If you have investments with another financial institution, you can transfer them to your Disnat account.

Once your account is funded, you’ll be ready to explore Disnat’s platform features and tools, as we’ll discuss in the next section.

Platform Features and Tools

Disnat provides a range of platform features and tools designed to assist investors in making informed decisions and executing trades efficiently. These features include:

Trading Platforms

Disnat offers multiple trading platforms to cater to the diverse needs of its users. These platforms include:

• Disnat Classic: A web-based platform designed for investors seeking essential trading tools and market research.

• Disnat Direct: A more advanced web-based platform with enhanced trading features, advanced charting tools, and real-time market data.

• Thinkorswim: A robust trading platform with advanced charting, technical analysis tools, and access to a wide range of research resources.

These platforms provide varying levels of sophistication and functionality, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your trading style and preferences.

Research and Analysis Tools

Disnat offers a comprehensive suite of research and analysis tools to help investors make informed decisions. These tools may include:

• Market Data: Real-time and delayed market data to track stock prices, indices, and more.

• Charting Tools: Advanced charting features that enable technical analysis of securities.

• Research Reports: Access to research reports, news, and analysis from leading financial institutions.

• Screeners: Stock screeners to filter and identify investment opportunities based on specific criteria.

• Educational Resources: Learning materials and webinars to help investors improve their trading skills and knowledge.

Mobile Apps

In today’s on-the-go world, mobile trading apps are essential for investors who want to manage their portfolios from anywhere. Disnat offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices, providing access to trading, real-time data, and research tools while on the move.

Investment Offerings

Disnat provides investors with access to a diverse range of investment products, catering to various investment strategies and goals. These offerings include:

Equities

Investors can trade a wide array of equities, including stocks listed on major North American and international exchanges. Disnat offers access to both Canadian and U.S. equities, allowing you to build a well-diversified stock portfolio.

Fixed Income

Fixed-income securities, such as bonds and debentures, are available for investors seeking more conservative investment options. These securities offer regular interest payments and can help balance a diversified portfolio.

Mutual Funds

Disnat offers access to a vast selection of mutual funds, including those managed by top fund companies. Mutual funds are an excellent choice for investors looking for professionally managed, diversified investment options.

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)

ETFs have become increasingly popular among investors due to their low fees and flexibility. Disnat provides access to a broad range of ETFs, covering various asset classes and investment strategies.

Options and Derivatives

For more advanced investors, Disnat offers options and derivatives trading. This allows traders to speculate on price movements, hedge their positions, and implement sophisticated trading strategies.

Disnat’s extensive range of investment offerings ensures that investors of all levels can find suitable options to align with their financial goals and risk tolerance.

Disnat Classic Vs. Disnat Direct Vs. Thinkorswim: Key Features and Benefits

In the world of online trading, the right platform can be the difference between success and frustration. Desjardins Online Brokerage offers a trio of powerful platforms: Disnat Classic, Disnat Direct, and Thinkorswim. Each of these platforms caters to distinct trading needs and preferences. To help you make an informed decision, we’ll compare these platforms in terms of their key features and benefits.

Disnat Classic: User-Friendly Simplicity

Features and Benefits

Disnat Classic is designed with user-friendliness in mind while offering a comprehensive set of tools for traders and investors. Its key features and benefits include:

• Intuitive Interface: Ideal for beginners, the platform offers an easy-to-navigate interface, making it accessible to those new to online trading.

• Equities Trading: Access to a diverse range of equities, allowing users to invest in Canadian, U.S., and international stocks with ease.

• Real-Time Market Data: Stay informed with real-time quotes, market depth, and charts for timely decision-making.

• Educational Resources: Beginners can benefit from a variety of educational resources to enhance their trading knowledge.

Target Audience: Disnat Classic is best suited for beginners and investors seeking a user-friendly platform with essential trading features.

Pros and Cons: While it provides simplicity and educational resources, it may lack some of the advanced features desired by experienced traders.

Disnat Direct: Advanced Trading at Your Fingertips

Features and Benefits

Disnat Direct takes online trading to the next level, offering advanced features and functionalities:

• Advanced Charting: Traders can utilize advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and customizable charting options for in-depth analysis.

• Options Trading: It provides options trading capabilities, allowing traders to implement advanced strategies.

• Direct Market Access: Access to real-time market data, Level II quotes, and advanced order types for precise execution.

• Thinkorswim Integration: Seamless integration with the Thinkorswim platform for expanded trading capabilities.

Target Audience: Disnat Direct caters to active traders and experienced investors who require advanced trading tools and features.

Pros and Cons: While it offers advanced capabilities, it may be overwhelming for beginners and comes with higher trading requirements.

Thinkorswim: The Professional’s Playground

Features and Benefits

Thinkorswim is a robust trading platform designed for professional and active traders. Its features and benefits include:

• Advanced Charting: Extensive charting options, technical studies, and drawing tools for in-depth technical analysis.

• Advanced Order Types: A wide range of advanced order types to implement complex trading strategies.

• Market Analysis: Access to comprehensive market analysis tools, including proprietary research and third-party analysis.

• Education: Extensive educational resources, webinars, and immersive courses for continuous learning.

Target Audience: Thinkorswim is tailored for professional traders, active investors, and those who require access to advanced research and analysis tools.

Pros and Cons: While it offers unmatched advanced features, it may be overwhelming for beginners and requires a substantial commitment to trading.

Choosing the Right Platform for You

Identifying Your Trading Style

Selecting the right platform hinges on your trading style, experience, and objectives:

• Disnat Classic: Ideal for beginners and long-term investors looking for simplicity and essential features.

• Disnat Direct: Suited for active traders and experienced investors seeking advanced trading tools.

• Thinkorswim: Tailored for professional traders and active investors who demand advanced analysis and tools.

Disnat Fees and Commissions

Understanding the cost of investing is crucial for making informed decisions. Disnat’s fee structure includes various components:

Trading Fees

• Equity Trading Fees: The cost of buying and selling stocks, which may vary depending on the stock exchange and trading platform used.

• Options Trading Fees: Fees associated with trading options contracts, including per-contract fees.

Account Fees

• Maintenance Fees: These may apply if certain account minimums are not met.

• Inactivity Fees: Charges may be levied for accounts that have remained inactive for a specified period.

Fee Structures

Disnat offers different fee structures, including fixed-rate and tiered pricing. The choice of fee structure may depend on your trading volume and frequency.

Understanding Disnat’s fee structure is essential for evaluating the cost of trading and managing your investment portfolio effectively.

In the next section, we’ll explore the customer support and educational resources available through Disnat. Click here to view the complete fees of Disnat. 

Customer Support and Education

Customer Service

Disnat places a strong emphasis on customer support. You can reach their support team through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat. Responsive and knowledgeable customer service can be invaluable when you have questions or encounter issues while trading.

Educational Resources

Investing can be complex, especially for beginners. Disnat recognizes the importance of education and provides a range of resources to help investors improve their knowledge and skills. These resources may include:

• Webinars: Live and recorded webinars covering various investment topics.

• Educational Articles: Written content that explains key concepts and strategies.

• Video Tutorials: Visual guides and tutorials to help users navigate the platform and make informed decisions.

By offering these educational resources, Disnat aims to empower investors to make well-informed choices and enhance their trading expertise.

Security and Regulation

Account Security

Disnat places a high priority on account security. They employ robust security measures to protect your personal and financial information. These measures may include encryption, two-factor authentication (2FA), and regular security audits.

Regulatory Oversight

Disnat operates under the regulatory framework of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC). This oversight ensures that Disnat adheres to industry standards and provides a secure and transparent trading environment for its clients.

In the next section, we’ll provide an overview of the pros and cons of using Disnat as your online brokerage platform.

Pros and Cons of Disnat

Advantages

Diverse Investment Offerings: Disnat provides access to a wide range of investment products, allowing you to build a diversified portfolio that aligns with your financial goals.

• Variety of Trading Platforms: The availability of multiple trading platforms ensures that you can choose one that suits your trading style, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader.

• Educational Resources: Disnat offers a robust set of educational resources, including webinars and tutorials, to help you enhance your investing knowledge and skills.

• Customer Support: Their responsive customer support team is available through various channels to assist you with your inquiries and issues promptly.

• Security Measures: Disnat prioritizes account security, employing encryption and 2FA to protect your personal and financial information.

Limitations

• Fees and Commissions: Like many online brokerages, trading fees and commissions can add up, impacting the overall cost of your investments.

• Complex Fee Structure: Disnat’s fee structure includes various components and pricing tiers, which can be complex to navigate for some investors.

• Advanced Features: While Disnat offers advanced trading features, beginners may find some of these features overwhelming.

Is Disnat Right for You?

The table below provides a concise overview of Disnat, including its services, fees, customer support, accessibility, and additional features.

Disnat	Description
Overview	Disnat, short for Desjardins Online Brokerage, is an online brokerage platform offered by Desjardins, one of Canada’s largest financial institutions. It provides individuals with the means to invest in a variety of financial instruments, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, and options, through an online trading platform.
Services	Disnat offers a range of investment services, including trading accounts, registered accounts (e.g., RRSPs and TFSAs), and access to various financial markets, both in Canada and internationally. It provides tools and resources for investors to make informed decisions, and it is designed to accommodate a range of investment styles, from long-term investing to active trading.
Fees and Commissions	Disnat has a fee structure that includes trading commissions for buying and selling securities. The fee schedule can vary depending on factors such as trading volume, account type, and market. Additionally, there may be account-related fees, such as maintenance fees and inactivity fees, to consider. It’s essential for investors to review the fee structure to ensure it aligns with their investment strategy and budget.
Customer Support	Disnat offers customer support through various channels, including a customer service phone line, email support, secure messaging within the platform, and, if applicable, physical branches. They may also provide online resources like FAQs and a help center on their website to assist clients with common inquiries. Social media channels and in-app support may also be available options.
Accessibility	Disnat’s services are typically accessible through their online platform, allowing clients to manage their investments and access trading tools from their computers or mobile devices. This accessibility provides clients with the flexibility to monitor and trade in financial markets at their convenience.
Additional Features	Some online brokerages, including Disnat, offer additional features such as educational resources, research tools, and advanced trading capabilities. These features can enhance clients’ ability to make informed investment decisions and manage their portfolios effectively.
Regulatory Compliance	Like all financial institutions in Canada, Disnat is subject to regulatory oversight to ensure compliance with financial regulations and the protection of investors’ interests. Clients can have confidence in the regulatory framework governing their investments with Disnat.

 

Target Audience

Disnat is well-suited for a variety of investors:

• Active Traders: Experienced traders who require advanced trading features and access to multiple markets.

• Long-Term Investors: Those seeking to build and manage a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, ETFs, and mutual funds.

• Educational Seekers: Individuals who value educational resources and want to enhance their investment knowledge.

• Security-Conscious Investors: Those who prioritize account security and regulatory compliance.

Disnat Alternatives

Consider these alternatives based on your specific investment goals:

Questrade: A Comprehensive Online Brokerage

Questrade is known for its comprehensive range of investment products, including stocks, ETFs, options, and bonds. It’s particularly popular among cost-conscious investors due to its low trading commissions and commission-free ETF purchases.

The below table provides a concise comparison between Disnat and Questrade, highlighting key aspects such as fees, account types, investment products, platform features, customer support, and more.

Aspect	Disnat	Questrade
Background	Disnat is the online brokerage platform offered by Desjardins, a major Canadian financial institution.	Questrade is an independent online brokerage established in 1999 and is one of Canada’s largest discount brokerages.
Trading Fees	Disnat has a tiered fee structure where trading commissions vary based on factors like trading volume and market.	Questrade offers competitive pricing with lower trading commissions, particularly for active traders and those trading large volumes.
Account Types	Disnat provides various account types, including cash accounts, margin accounts, and registered accounts like RRSPs and TFSAs.	Questrade offers a range of account types, including individual, joint, margin, and registered accounts, catering to different investor needs.
Investment Products	Disnat offers access to a wide range of investment products, including stocks, bonds, ETFs, options, and mutual funds.	Questrade provides access to stocks, ETFs, options, fixed-income products, and precious metals, offering a diverse selection for investors.
Platform and Tools	Disnat provides a user-friendly platform with research tools and market insights. It’s suitable for beginners and long-term investors.	Questrade offers a robust trading platform with advanced charting, technical indicators, and third-party integrations, making it appealing to active traders and technical analysts.
Customer Support	Disnat offers customer support through phone, email, secure messaging, and physical branches.	Questrade provides customer support via phone, email, live chat, and social media. They also have a well-structured help center and community forum.
Mobile App	Disnat offers a mobile app for on-the-go trading and account management.	Questrade’s mobile app is well-rated and provides access to trading and account management features.
Fees for Additional Services	Disnat may have account-related fees like maintenance fees and inactivity fees.	Questrade typically doesn’t charge maintenance or inactivity fees, making it more cost-effective for some investors.
Education and Resources	Disnat offers educational resources, but they may not be as extensive as some other platforms.	Questrade provides a wide range of educational materials, webinars, and a dedicated learning center to help clients improve their investing knowledge.
Regulatory Oversight	Disnat, as part of Desjardins, is subject to Canadian regulatory oversight, ensuring compliance with financial regulations.	Questrade is regulated by the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF) for added investor protection.

Interactive Brokers: Global Access and Advanced Tools

Interactive Brokers provides access to global markets and offers advanced trading tools suitable for active traders and sophisticated investors. Its competitive pricing and extensive range of investment products make it a top choice for those seeking international exposure.

TD Direct Investing: A Trusted Canadian Bank-Owned Brokerage

TD Direct Investing is backed by TD Bank, a trusted Canadian financial institution. It offers a wide array of investment options and research tools, making it an appealing choice for investors who value brand reputation and a comprehensive suite of services.

Wealthsimple Trade: Simplicity and Zero Commissions

Wealthsimple Trade is designed for simplicity, offering commission-free trading of stocks and ETFs. It’s an excellent choice for beginners and investors who prefer a straightforward, user-friendly platform.

Scotia iTRADE: A Robust Suite of Tools

Scotia iTRADE provides a robust suite of research and trading tools, making it suitable for investors who want access to advanced analytics and research reports. It’s backed by Scotiabank, a well-established Canadian bank.

Final Words

In our exploration of Desjardins Online Brokerage, or Disnat, we’ve uncovered a platform that caters to the diverse needs of Canadian investors. With its range of account types, investment offerings, trading platforms, and educational resources, Disnat has much to offer.

While Disnat presents advantages such as diverse investment options, multiple trading platforms, and robust educational resources, it’s crucial to consider the associated fees and commissions. Understanding the fee structure and assessing how it aligns with your investment strategy is a vital step in evaluating Disnat as your online brokerage platform.

Ultimately, whether Disnat is the right choice for you depends on your individual financial goals, trading style, and preferences. By conducting thorough research, considering your investment needs, and weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether Disnat is the ideal platform to help you achieve your financial aspirations.