Investing
Investing is the art of using your money to make more money. The concepts and practices are simple, if you know about them. Here are the most important things to know.
Investing 101 For Beginners | How To Start | Wealthsimple
Want to invest like a pro? Learn the basics of investing from us and we'll have you on the road to investing in no time.
How the Stock Market Works In Canada?
Losing sleep wondering how the stock market works? Today's your lucky day. We'll impart all you need to know to become a market pro in no time.
Active vs Passive Investing in Canada 2022
Not sure of the difference between these two investment philosophies? Not for long you're not! We'll set you straight and even tell you how to get started.
Financial Advisors: How To Choose & The Cost
Find out exactly what a financial advisor does, what they cost, and why you might need one. We'll also give you our best advice for choosing financial advisors.
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What is a Call Option?
9 min read
Call options give the holder of the option the right, but not the obligation, to buy a specific quantity of an underlying stock at a specified price for a specific period of time. This article will walk you through how call options work.
Fractional Shares | Everything You Need to Know!
3 min read
A fractional share is a fraction of a share of stock. It allows investors to own stock in a company without buying a full share. Here’s a guide to fractional shares.
Popular online banks in Canada
3 min read
There are unique advantages to using online-only banks. Here are some of the most popular online banks in Canada, as well as their advantages.
Popular Banks in Canada in 2024
12 min read
We’ve rounded up some of Canada’s popular banks, including online-only banks and alternative financial institutions for a comprehensive guide.
What is margin
9 min read
Learn more about how to use margin as a trading strategy, the benefits, and risks.
How to Invest Cash Money - an Investor’s Guide to Cash
4 min read
Understanding when it makes sense to hold cash money and when to use it is a key component of investing. Learn about when it makes sense to invest, and how much is too much.
How to Invest in the S&P 500
5 min read
As an index of 500 of the largest publicly-traded U.S. companies, the S&P 500 can have built-in diversification. We explain why it may be worth exploring.
How much money do you need to save for retirement?
5 min read
It’s never too early to start thinking about how much money you’ll need to retire. Here’s a way to find out what you’ll need in 5 steps.
Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP): What it is and how it works
8 min read
An RESP is a tax-advantaged savings account for a child’s future education, funded by the Canadian government. Here’s how to save using an RESP.
How to invest by decade
7 min read
Investing isn’t something you set up once and leave until you’re ready to retire. We cover what priorities and factors you should think about depending on your age.
FHSA vs. TFSA vs. RRSP
1 min read
Instead of stressing with a calculator or calling your accountant, you can figure out which tax-sheltered account is best for you — FHSA, RRSP, or TFSA — with this very simple (and fun!) flow chart.
Accounts to save for retirement
4 min read
Learn what accounts can help you better save for retirement and what to do with them.
TFSA Transfers Explained
3 min read
TFSA transfers: What you need to know and a step-by-step guide for moving your TFSA
How the Stock Market Works In Canada?
11 min read
Losing sleep wondering how the stock market works? Today's your lucky day. We'll impart all you need to know to become a market pro in no time.
Beginners' Guide to Investing in Bonds
8 min read
Understand the different types of bonds that exist, how to start investing in bonds and where exactly you can buy bonds.
Option Greeks: Delta, gamma, theta, vega, and rho
2 min read
There are different risks with options. Option Greeks help investors calculate and understand those risks, so it can be very useful to know what each one means.
Options terminology and what each term means
5 min read
Trading options involves a lot of specialized terms. We give you a quick rundown of the main terminology and explain what each word means, so that you can be better prepared as you trade options.
How to invest in ETFs
2 min read
Either buy them yourself, go through a traditional advisor, or use an automated investment service.
What is a margin call
5 min read
Margin calls occur when the value of your account drops below a certain threshold that you need to get it back up to. Here’s what you need to know about what a margin call is, what to do if it happens to you, and how you can avoid it.
Margin account vs. cash account
5 min read
Margin accounts and cash accounts are two types of non-registered accounts that allow investors to access the markets. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of each.
What Is Value Investing & How Does It Work?
5 min read
Value investing is finding investments that are good value for money. Here's everything else you need to know about value investing.
What is a Brokerage Account
7 min read
At its core, a brokerage account holds the cash you need to buy securities. But finding the account that’s right for you is a matter of knowing your investment style.
What is a Put Option?
10 min read
A guide to investing in put options: What they are, how they work, how to invest in them, and the difference between a call option and a put option.
What is compound interest?
9 min read
It's the process by which the money you make on your principal investment itself becomes part of the principle for further investment.
What is an option chain and how do you read it?
2 min read
An option chain is a table that lists information about the existing options contracts related to a given underlying security. Learn more about how it’s used in options trading.
Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption Explained
2 min read
The LCGE allows you to avoid paying taxes on capital gain income up to a certain amount when you sell shares/property in your small business, farm or fishery.
Stop orders
4 min read
Stop-limit orders automatically trigger an attempt to buy or sell an asset when it hits a price you specified beforehand — so you know it’ll only be completed at a price you find acceptable. Learn more about how they work.
What Is Options Trading and How Does It Work?
9 min read
Options are a type of traded product that goes beyond simply buying or selling a stock. We cover the basics of what options are and how trading them can open you up to so many different… options.
Investing 101 For Beginners | How To Start | Wealthsimple
15 min read
Want to invest like a pro? Learn the basics of investing from us and we'll have you on the road to investing in no time.
What is a GIC?
6 min read
Should you consider stashing cash in a GICs? Your grandparent’s favourite investment, explained.
An Introduction to Micro Investing
5 min read
Get introduced to Micro Investing, a concept whereby you invest small amounts over time. Find out if it's worth it and the best apps to use.
How to Sell Stock & When You Should in 2022
6 min read
Selling stock can seem a little intimidating and comes with its fair share of risk. Here’s what you need to know about selling stock, and when you should do it.
Mutual Funds vs Stocks - Comparison
8 min read
Stocks and mutual funds are popular securities for amateur and expert investors alike. Learn how they relate and how they differ.
Mutual Funds: What They Are & How To Invest | Wealthsimple
21 min read
Mutual funds have been the dominant player in the personal investment world for decades. How do you invest in them? We have your answer and more.
Types of Mutual Funds
7 min read
Description: Mutual funds are the most popular investment vehicles for investors. Before you dive into mutual funds, it’s important to understand the main types.
Investment Risk Explained
9 min read
You've probably heard that investing always carries a certain amount of risk. But what exactly does this mean?
An Overview of Impact Investing
7 min read
Read on to learn more about this prosocial investing method and how it differs from other similar strategies.
What Are Index Funds? Passive Investing in Canada 2022
14 min read
Index funds are an appealing choice for first-time investors or those looking to passively invest their money in established markets. But just because it’s easy doesn’t mean it’s always the right choice for everyone.
What is Stock Lending?
7 min read
Securities lending is a way to make money off of stocks that you already own by loaning them to other investors. Here's how it works.
Self-directed vs. Managed Investing: Which One’s Right for You?
4 min read
Managed investing and self-directed investing work for a lot of people (some even use a combination). But the only person who can tell you what’s right for you is you.
What Is a First Home Savings Account?
4 min read
An FHSA is a new type of tax-sheltered account that helps Canadians save up to $40,000 toward the purchase of their first home. Here's how it works.
An Investor's Guide to Private Equity
3 min read
Private equity is an alternative investment class that involves buying stakes in private companies, improving them, and attempting to sell them for a profit. Here's how it works.
Alternative Investments, Explained | Example & Strategies
4 min read
Alternative investments are assets other than stocks, bonds, and cash that offer diversification and the potential for higher returns.
A Comprehensive Guide to RRSP Transfers
3 min read
Guide to RRSP transfers for Canadians: benefits, types, reasons, and steps to move your RRSP
What are Odd Lots and How Do They Work?
8 min read
A majority of stocks are sold in nice, even groups of 100 (or 500 or 1,000), called board lots. But not everybody can or wants to buy 100 shares of a particular stock. That’s where odd lots come in. Anything less than a board lot is an odd lot. And the way they trade can feel kind of... odd.
What Is Ethical Investing & Why Do It
8 min read
Find out everything you need to know about ethical investing and why you should consider doing it.
What is Dividend Yield?
2 min read
Dividend yields show the dividend as a percentage of the company’s current share price. They also give you an easy way to compare one dividend to another.
What's dividend reinvestment?
2 min read
Dividend reinvestment lets you automatically reinvest your dividends, making sure you have the most time in market as possible. Here's everything you need to know.
The Six Worst Ways to Trade Options
5 min read
You can’t take the risk out of options, but you can do your best to limit it.
How to Trade Options
4 min read
With options, you're predicting whether a stock's price will rise or fall within a certain time period. Here's how to trade them.
What is dollar cost averaging?
1 min read
It's an investment strategy designed to reduce volatility in a portfolio.
When Should You Start Investing?
11 min read
When should you start investing? What should you invest in? How do you get started? Read on.
What is a Robo-Advisor?
15 min read
What is a robo advisor? In this article, we explain everything you need to know about robo investing and whether it’s right for you.
Best Stock Market Simulators in Canada
6 min read
Stock market simulators work by allowing you to pretend you are investing in real stocks but without using real money. Here are a few of the best options.
How to Invest in Index Funds Canada in 2022
5 min read
Index funds function like a slice of a particular index market by mirroring its composition and performance. This can be great for passive investors, but also comes with some caveats.
Price-Earnings Ratio (P/E) Guide: Explanation, Uses & Examples
8 min read
Before you chalk up investing phrases like this one for the likes of Wall Street tycoons, you should know that the concept of the P/E ratio isn’t that hard to understand.
What is an ETF? A Beginner's Guide
6 min read
An ETF (exchange-traded fund) is a type of diversified investment fund. Find out everything you need to know about ETFs and how to buy them.
How to Buy Stocks in Canada 2022
12 min read
Easy-to-follow instructions to get you started buying, selling and hopefully making money investing in stocks.
What Are Dividends & How Do They Work in Canada
8 min read
You’ve heard of dividend stocks, but what are they? Let’s look at the definition of a dividend and an explanation of why companies pay dividends.
12 Smart Ideas to Make Passive Income in Canada
8 min read
Passive income is the Holy Grail of the business world—it’s income that takes little or no effort to bring in. This is the kind of income people make without doing a large amount of ongoing work. It includes renting out real estate, selling digital products, or selling ad space on a blog.
How to Make Money in Stocks 2022 Canada
10 min read
What's easier than making a fortune in the stock market? Losing one. A few easy-to-follow rules will help you locate the path to investing success.
What Is ESG Investing? Everything You Need To Know 2022
5 min read
Learn everything you need to know about ESG investing. What ESG investing is all about and how it differs to socially responsible investing.
How To Become A Millionaire in Canada 2022
12 min read
Who wants to be a millionaire? We all do! This guide won't help you make your mil overnight, but will help you make smart decisions to reach your goal.
What is the Canada Learning Bond?
3 min read
The Canada Learning Bond is a grant from the Canadian government that helps families save money to send their children to post-secondary education.
Real Estate Investment and Investing in Canada
7 min read
Housing values in Canada are on the rise and it seems everyone is getting in on the action. But is real estate investing right for you?
ETF vs Mutual Funds - Comparison
6 min read
ETFs and mutual funds are definitely siblings in terms of investing, but like all families, they have some key differences that set them apart and make them ideal for certain types of investors.
Water Stocks Canada Investing Guide 2022
7 min read
Water stocks and ETFs are emerging as important investment opportunities. Here’s an overview.
What are Leveraged ETFs & How Do They Work?
5 min read
You can use leverage to lift a really heavy rock, or to make more money in the stock market. We explain the latter — how funds use debt to magnify returns.
The Complete Guide to Meme Stocks
9 min read
A meme stock is an umbrella term for any type of investment opportunity that’s helped out by the wider power of the internet and social networks.
Comparing Fund Performance
4 min read
We are often asked by clients about how to evaluate the performance of different funds. While this is a difficult decision, we have a few things to keep in mind. Read on here.
How to Pick Stocks
10 min read
Picking stocks is not an activity to be trifled with. We'll give you some stock picking tools and a big honking warning about what you're up against.
What's the difference between a stock and an ETF?
1 min read
Find out the difference between ETFs vs stocks. Here's everything you need to know so you can purchase the right investment for your needs.
Financial Advisors: How To Choose & The Cost
14 min read
Find out exactly what a financial advisor does, what they cost, and why you might need one. We'll also give you our best advice for choosing financial advisors.
A Guide to Cash Advance Fees
5 min read
Basically, a cash advance is a cash loan you take out on your credit card. Learn more here.
What are Segregated Funds
7 min read
Segregated funds are kind of like mutual funds’ super-insured sibling. They function in similar ways to mutual funds but have the added benefit of some guarantees to keep your money safe—with a caveat.
What Are Negative Interest Rates?
6 min read
Negative interest rates are essentially savings interest rates below zero. Here's everything else you could possibly want to know about negative interest rates.
Best Investing Strategies
7 min read
There's no one-size-fits-all best investing strategy—everyone's needs and goals are different. But there are some basics that most investors should consider when building their investment strategy.
What Types of Investments Are There?
7 min read
Curious to know the different ways you can invest? Find out the different types of investments that exist from stocks to bonds and automated investing.
Everything You Should Know About Investment Advisors
4 min read
Everything you need to know about investment advisors. Just read on below!
How To Think About Passive Investment Performance
11 min read
The Wealthsimple Investment Research team shares some tipes on how you can avoid one of the most common investor mistakes: basing decisions on recent performance.
What is the S&P 500?
5 min read
The S&P 500 is a stock market index that measures the performance of approximately 500 U.S. companies. These companies (which happen to cover 11 sectors) offer a snapshot of U.S. stock market health as well as the broader economy.
Average Stock Market Return
8 min read
The average stock return can be measured over a number of different time periods and by looking at several market benchmarks such as the S&P 500 indexand the Dow Jones Industrial Average). Find out more below.
What is Options Trading?
7 min read
Options trading is the practice of buying and selling option contracts on the open market. It can be a lucrative way to grow your investment portfolio, but it comes with serious risks.
How to Invest in Stocks - A Simple Guide
15 min read
So you know all about stocks, right? Or at least you know that they exist, and that you should invest in them? That's a good start. Allow us to lay out the basics.
Interest: Definition and Explanation
9 min read
Interest is the cost of borrowing money. If you understand it well, you’ll save money when you borrow and make money when you deposit.
Return on Investment (ROI) Explained
6 min read
Ever wonder: What is the meaning of ROI? Here’s return on investment (ROI) explained and how to use it when making investments or business decisions.
What is a Stock Ticker, and What Does a Ticker Symbol Mean?
5 min read
A stock ticker is a common investment term, but it can be confusing for those new to the scene.
High Yield Investments
8 min read
Know the absolute best way to make a ton of money investing? High yield investments. Only problem: they're also the best, quickest way to lose your shirt.
Types of Bonds Explained
8 min read
Bonds are important elements of every well-rounded investment portfolio. But before you start making trades, you’ll need to know the different types.
What Are Bonds?
7 min read
A bond is a fixed income security that comes with low risk for the investor. This guide will give you an overview of investing in bonds and show how they’re different than stocks.
The Rule of 72: Definition & Formula
7 min read
Rule of 72 is an easy way to gauge the impact of compound interest by estimating how long before an investment doubles.
What is a Bear Market?
7 min read
A bear market is a condition of investor pessimism and declining investment. It’s when securities prices fall 20% or more from their 52-week high.
What is Fixed Income?
7 min read
Fixed income securities like Bonds and CDs can be powerful investment tools. Here’s what you need to know about them.
What is Rate of Return (ROR)?
7 min read
In the investing world, rate of return (ROR) is the net gain or loss on an investment over a period of time. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about ROR.
What are bull and bear markets?
1 min read
They refer to markets in which stock prices are generall rising or falling, respectively.
The Wealthy Barber: Book Review & Summary
5 min read
The Wealthy Barber is one of Canada’s most popular personal finance books. This is a guide to the book’s lessons and take a closer look at who this book is for.
What is an IPO? And How They Work
7 min read
An IPO is the first time a private company sells shares on a stock exchange to public investors. Learn about IPOs and how to get involved.
Yield Definition and Explanation
7 min read
Investing is all about getting a return on your money, and figuring out your yield will give you valuable knowledge to influence your investment decisions.
A Guide to Corporate Social Responsibility
7 min read
Corporate Social Responsibility is a common buzzword, but what does it actually mean - and how do major companies actually use CSR strategies?
A Guide to Index Investing
8 min read
Curious about index investing? Ready to get over your fears? Keep reading to understand how index investing might be the key to your financial future.
What is Hedging
6 min read
At the basic level, hedging is protecting your finances from risk in case your investment loses value. It also helps you limit your losses if things don’t go as planned.
What is Stock Analysis & How to Do It
6 min read
Ready to try your hand at analyzing stocks? Check out this comprehensive guide on what is stock analysis and how to do it.
P/E Ratio Guide: Explanation, Uses & Example
8 min read
Whether you’ve started on a serious investing journey or are well into it, you’ve probably heard some investing buzzwords that include the phrase “P/E Ratio.” Find out all about it here.
What are Municipal Bonds? Everything to Know
7 min read
Municipal bonds are considered low-risk investments that boast some attractive tax benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about investing in municipal bonds.
Common Stock vs. Preferred Stock
7 min read
Common stock and preferred stock are quite different in part because of how much of a risk each represents. Let’s take a closer look at these stock types to get a better handle on the advantages and disadvantages of each.
Money Market Fund Explained
8 min read
A money market fund—also known as a money market mutual fund—offers a relatively safe parking spot for your money. They are popular with investors because they are highly liquid, so the money can fund a new investment opportunity. But what is a money market fund? And how does it work? Let’s take a look.
Market Order vs. Limit Order
5 min read
There are a number of different types of orders that can be used. Two common types of orders are the market order and the limit order. Find out more below.
High Yield Bonds
6 min read
High yield bonds issued by companies with lower credit ratings. They offer better returns than investment grade bonds, but they also come with more risk.
Types of Stock: Information & Benefits
6 min read
Understanding the differences between different stock types is a crucial component of your investing foundation.
Certificate of Deposit Explained
7 min read
The phrase “certificate of deposit,” also known as a CD, may sound complicated but it’s one of the simplest , most misunderstood and underutilized financial tools.
How to Read Stock Charts
6 min read
Stock charts can be a great way to track the price performance of a stock or ETF over time. They can provide a visual image that’s easy to read. Find out how to read them like a pro here.
What to Know About Mutual Fund (DSC) Fees?
6 min read
While some people may not realize this, mutual funds are run just like any other business. Since it costs money to run a mutual fund, investors pay for it through a number of fees.
Limit Orders
7 min read
How do you buy something at the right time when the price is constantly shifting? Find out about limit orders here.
Diversification: What it Is & How it Works
10 min read
Diversification is a highly popular investing strategy that’s even got the backing of a Nobel Prize winner. But what exactly is it, and is it right for every investor?
Common Shares
8 min read
Common shares or common stock is a class of stock issued by corporations that represent ownership in the corporation for shareholders. Find out more here.
Everything to Know About Commodities
9 min read
Commodities are one of the major asset classes along with stocks and bonds. If you’re interested in learning more about this asset class, here is everything you need to know.
What is a Stock Buyback?
5 min read
When a company performs a stock buyback, it buys back its shares from the market. It’s a way for the company to invest in itself or use available cash to purchase its own shares. Find out more here.
What is Income Investing & How to Start
8 min read
Investing for income means putting together a collection of investments—which can involve multiple asset classes and investment styles—that generate regular income for the investor.
How To Buy Stocks Without a Broker In Canada 2022
7 min read
Buying stocks and shares online is easier than ever. With a wide variety of online brokerages and trading platforms at your disposal, you’ll be able to buy stocks at much lower fees than you would with a traditional financial planner.
What Is Preferred Stock and How to Invest
9 min read
Say you’re investing in all the right retirement vehicles and watching your investment balances grow year over year, but there’s a desire to see some immediate reward. You might be ready for investments that can offer some immediate cash flow.
What Are Securities?
8 min read
Many people wondering what securities are may not realize that they're likely already familiar with this investment category. The most common examples include stocks and bonds. Learn more here.
What are Commodities
7 min read
When you first start researching investments, you will run across terms that seem like a foreign language. If you’ve ever wondered, “What are commodities?” or, “What is a security?” you’re not alone.
How to Research Stocks: Step-by-Step Guide
6 min read
Researching stocks can be overwhelming. This step-by-step guide will help you understand what matters—and what doesn’t.
Investment Management
6 min read
Investment management should be simple enough, but a lot of people seem to get it wrong. Read along for an explanation.
How to Invest in Gold — and Why You Might
5 min read
Gold isn’t just pretty to look at—it’s also an asset that could form part of a diversified portfolio. There are a couple different ways to invest in gold, depending on what your financial goals and your risk tolerance are.
Where and What Should I Invest In
16 min read
Choosing where and what to invest in can often feel overwhelming, given all the options. So we’ve created a helpful guide so you can find the right fit for you.
How to Buy Penny Stocks in Canada 2022
9 min read
Looking to become the new 'Wolf of Wall Street' through penny stocks? We'll not only provide you tools to get started, but also a cold dose of reality.
How to Build Wealth
8 min read
Building wealth is an essential question that’s crucial to our future, financial independence, and comfort during retirement. Learn how to start.
How to Make Your Money Work Harder for You
6 min read
There are many more ways than just one to make your money work for you. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a roundup of the best ways to invest in present (and future) you.
Is Wealthsimple Legit?
1 min read
The simple answer? Yes. Wealthsimple is as legit as they come, and we'll provide enough evidence to reassure even the most skeptical naysayer.
How to Invest in Dividend Stocks
6 min read
Stocks that pay out regular dividends are a very popular way of generating potential wealth. But before you put all of your money into dividend stock, it’s worth getting informed about all the benefits and drawbacks.
What is Market Market Capitalization in 2022
7 min read
Market capitalization is an important investment metric that helps you measure the size of a company. Find out more about market capitalization here.
Earnings Per Share (EPS)
8 min read
Earnings per share is a key metric investors and analysts use to study a company’s performance. Find out more about earnings per share here.
How to Trade Stocks in Canada 2022
9 min read
Trading stocks on the stock market may sound intimidating, but with the proper know-how and strategy, it can pay off for investors with a high tolerance for risk.
Active vs Passive Investing in Canada 2022
9 min read
Not sure of the difference between these two investment philosophies? Not for long you're not! We'll set you straight and even tell you how to get started.
Passive Investing: What It Is and How It Works
8 min read
What in the world is passive investing? We have a guide that will not only explain it, but will get you started investing like a passive pro.
What are stocks?
2 min read
Find out everything you need to know about stocks, including what they are and how to start investing.
How old do you have to be to invest?
1 min read
You must be whatever the age of majority is in your province.
Why Hold Bonds at All?
5 min read
If you care about the distribution, and making sure you are compensated well for taking on risk even over a long time horizon, it may make sense to allocate some of your portfolio to risky government bonds.
Best way To Invest Money In Canada 2022
15 min read
All the fundamentals the beginning investor should know to make wise investment decisions. Find out how and where you should invest your hard earned cash.
What's portfolio rebalancing?
2 min read
It's a regular fine-tuning of your investment portfolio that keeps your investment strategy on course.
What is asset allocation?
2 min read
Asset allocation is a fancy way of saying 'don’t put all your eggs in one basket.'
What’s a fund of funds?
1 min read
It's a fund that invests exclusively in other asset-containing funds.
What is a hedge fund?
1 min read
An investment that seeks to outperform the market by employing complicated trading strategies.
What's the Management Expense Ratio (MER)?
1 min read
The Management Expense Ratio, or MER, is how much it will cost you, year in and year out, to own any mutual fund, index fund, or ETF.
What is modern portfolio theory?
1 min read
It's the award-winning idea that it's better to have a diversified investment portfolio than to hand-pick stocks.
What is the S&P/TSX Composite Index?
1 min read
The S&P/TSX Composite Index is Canada’s benchmark index, much like America’s S&P 500.
What level of risk should my portfolio have?
1 min read
It truly depends. Find out what's right for you below.
What’s the difference between a stock and a bond?
1 min read
A stock is a share in a company. A bond is a kind of loan agreement.
What are dividends?
1 min read
They are sums of money given to a company's investors, representing their cut of the profits.
What is socially responsible investing (SRI)?
1 min read
It's the practice of investing in funds that focus on companies that adhere to important ethical principles.