CI DIRECT INVESTING

CI Direct Investing is a Canadian investment dealer that provides both self-directed discount brokerage services (under CI Direct Trading) and managed investment solutions. It is a registered business name of CI Investment Services Inc., which is a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). The broker was founded on June 25, 2025, and is headquartered at 15 York Street, 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON, M5J 0A3.

As part of the larger CI Financial group, CI Direct Investing leverages established infrastructure and regulatory oversight. The broker caters to Canadian residents seeking low-cost trading or professionally managed portfolios.

CI Direct Investing operates under the regulation of CIRO (Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization), which oversees investment dealers in Canada. It holds a derivatives trading license (EP) and is classified as regulated. Additionally, client accounts are protected by the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF) up to specified limits in case of the firm's insolvency.

The broker's registration status and membership in CIPF provide a layer of security for Canadian investors. However, it is important to note that CIPF does not cover losses from market fluctuations or unsuitable investments. The firm's compliance with securities legislation in all provinces and territories underscores its commitment to regulatory standards.

CI Direct Trading offers a range of securities for self-directed investors, including equities (stocks), exchange-traded funds (ETFs), options, mutual funds, and fixed income securities. The broker does not appear to offer leveraged forex or contracts for difference (CFDs) typical of retail forex brokers. Instead, it focuses on traditional investment products.

For clients preferring a hands-off approach, CI Direct Investing provides managed portfolios that invest in diversified assets. The management fees are tiered based on the total invested amount, starting at 0.60% annually for the first $150,000, reducing to 0.35% for amounts above $500,000. This model appeals to cost-conscious investors.

Self-directed accounts include Margin, TFSA, RRSP, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, and LIF accounts, all with dual-currency support (CAD/USD). The broker offers a web-based trading platform and a mobile app for on-the-go trading. The platform is described as institutional-grade, providing tools and analytics for active traders.

For managed investing, clients can open similar registered accounts. The robo-advisory service uses technology to recommend and manage portfolios. Account setup is online, and the broker emphasizes ease of use for both beginner and experienced investors.

Commissions for self-directed trading are among the lowest in Canada. Equities cost 1¢/share (min $1.99, max $7.99). ETF buys are free, and sells follow equity pricing.

Options are $7.99 + $1.25/contract. Active traders with 150+ trades per quarter pay a flat $3.99 per equity or option trade. Broker-assisted trades are more expensive, with fees up to $50 + 3% of principal.

Administrative fees are transparent: account transfers-out cost $50 (partial) or $150 (full), wire withdrawals within Canada are $50, and international wires are $100. US dollar registered accounts incur a quarterly fee of $15. Despite these fees, the broker positions itself as a low-cost provider suitable for cost-sensitive investors.

CI Direct Investing is designed for Canadian residents who want to invest in stocks, ETFs, and options with low costs. It suits both self-directed investors who prefer to manage their own portfolios and those who seek professional management via robo-advisory. The broker also caters to active traders with its flat-fee pricing for high-volume traders.

Due to its Canadian registration and regulatory framework, the broker is not aimed at international clients. Services and accounts are available only to residents of Canada. The broker's focus on simplicity and low fees makes it an attractive option for novice investors and seasoned traders alike.