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Qtrade Guided Portfolios: Automated Investing with Qtrade

Post By Qayyum Rajan, CFA
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

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Qtrade Guided Portfolios offer Canadians a simple, low-cost way to invest using a professionally managed robo-advisor. If you’re looking for a hands-off investing solution that blends automation with the backing of experienced portfolio managers, Qtrade’s robo-advisor platform might be the right fit for you.

In this guide, you’ll learn how Qtrade Guided Portfolios work, who they’re best suited for, and how they compare to other robo-advisors in Canada.

👉 Current Promo: Get $50 when you open and fund a Qtrade account, or up to $150 for funding three accounts.
📆 Valid Apr 1 – Oct 31, [currentyear] | 🏷️ Promo Code: OFFER2025
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What Are Qtrade Guided Portfolios?

Qtrade Guided Portfolios is a robo-advisory service offered by Qtrade, powered by Credential Qtrade Securities Inc. It provides a fully managed investing experience where your money is allocated into diversified ETF portfolios based on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance.

The platform is built for Canadians who want to invest for long-term goals but prefer not to make day-to-day investment decisions.

Key Features of Qtrade Guided Portfolios

FeatureDetails
Minimum Investment$2,000
Management Fees0.35% per year (plus underlying ETF MERs ~0.20%)
Portfolio TypesConservative to Aggressive Growth
Accounts AvailableTFSA, RRSP, RESP, RRIF, LIRA, LIF, Non-Registered
RebalancingAutomatic
Responsible Investing OptionsYes – SRI portfolios available
Human SupportEmail and phone support from licensed investment reps

How It Works

  1. Complete the Questionnaire
    You'll answer questions about your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

  2. Get Matched to a Portfolio
    Qtrade matches you with a model ETF portfolio suited to your profile — ranging from Conservative to Aggressive Growth.

  3. Fund Your Account
    You’ll need to deposit at least $2,000 to get started.

  4. Automatic Rebalancing
    Your portfolio is monitored and rebalanced as needed to maintain your target asset allocation.

Types of Qtrade Portfolios

Qtrade Guided Portfolios include:

  • Conservative: Heavily weighted toward fixed income, suitable for low-risk investors.

  • Balanced: A mix of stocks and bonds for moderate growth.

  • Growth/Aggressive Growth: Higher exposure to equities for long-term capital appreciation.

💡 SRI (Socially Responsible Investing) portfolios are also available, for investors who want to align their investments with ethical or environmental values.

Fees Breakdow

Fee TypeAmount
Management Fee0.35% annually
ETF MERs~0.20% (varies slightly by portfolio)
Account Minimum$2,000
Other Account FeesNone for basic services

Qtrade’s robo fees are competitive with Wealthsimple Invest (0.50%) and Justwealth (0.50%), and notably lower than traditional mutual fund MERs (~2%).

Qtrade Guided Portfolios vs Wealthsimple Invest

FeatureQtrade Guided PortfoliosWealthsimple Invest
Minimum Deposit$2,000$1
Management Fee0.35%0.50% (0.40% for $100k+)
SRI OptionsYesYes
Portfolio ManagerCredential Qtrade Securities Inc.Wealthsimple Inc.
Account TypesTFSA, RRSP, RESP, LIRA, etc.TFSA, RRSP, RESP, etc.
RebalancingAutomaticAutomatic
PromoUp to $150 bonus with code OFFER2025$25–$50 sign-up bonus

✅ Verdict: Qtrade Guided Portfolios may appeal more to investors who want lower fees and more personal support through a recognized financial network.

Who Should Use Qtrade Guided Portfolios?

Qtrade Guided Portfolios are ideal if:

  • You want a hands-off investing experience

  • You prefer ETF-based portfolios over mutual funds

  • You're looking for SRI investing options

  • You want to invest long-term for goals like retirement or your child’s education

  • You value lower fees than most robo-advisors

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the minimum to start with Qtrade Guided Portfolios?

$2,000 is the minimum required to open an account.

What does the 0.35% management fee include?

It covers portfolio management, account rebalancing, and support. ETF MERs (~0.20%) are charged separately.

Can I open a TFSA or RRSP with Qtrade Guided Portfolios?

Yes — as well as RESP, RRIF, LIRA, and non-registered accounts.

Is there a promo for Guided Portfolios?

Yes. Use OFFER2025 to get up to $150 in bonuses when funding up to 3 accounts.
👉 Click here to get the offer

Final Verdict: Should You Use Qtrade Guided Portfolios?

Qtrade Guided Portfolios combine the best of robo-investing with the credibility of a top Canadian brokerage. With lower-than-average fees, automatic rebalancing, and access to SRI options, it’s a smart choice for Canadians seeking long-term, automated investing.

👉 Get started with Qtrade Guided Portfolios and claim your $150 bonus

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Qayyum Rajan, CFA
Written by

Qayyum Rajan, CFA

Qayyum is the CEO of Wealth Awesome, a leading Canadian personal finance publication. As a CFA charterholder with extensive experience in fintech, data science, and quantitative finance, he brings a unique analytical perspective to investing and wealth management.

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✅ Reviewed by Certified Financial Professionals

This content has been reviewed by CFA® charterholders and Certified Financial Planners (CFP®) with over a decade of experience in Canadian financial markets. All information is fact-checked against official Canadian sources and regulations.

Why these credentials matter: CFA® charterholders complete 900+ hours of rigorous study in investment analysis and ethics. CFP® professionals are held to the highest standards of financial planning competency and fiduciary duty in Canada.

📊 Data AccuracyVerified sources
🇨🇦 Canadian FocusLocal expertise
🔍 Fact-CheckedEditorial review

⚠️ Professional Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized financial advice. While our team brings professional expertise, individual circumstances vary. For personalized guidance, consult with a qualified financial advisor, tax professional, or mortgage specialist.

Published: July 9, 2025
Last Updated: January 8, 2026