Wealthsimple is Canada’s largest digital wealth platform with over $30 billion in assets under management. Built directly into the Wealthsimple mobile app, Wealthsimple Crypto allows Canadians to buy, sell, and stake Bitcoin, Ethereum, and 60+ altcoins alongside stocks, ETFs, and high-interest cash accounts.
If you already use Wealthsimple for investing or tax filing, buying crypto inside the same ecosystem is extremely seamless. New accounts can get a cash welcome bonus with a Wealthsimple referral code.
Key Specifications
- Regulation: First crypto platform in Canada to receive a Restricted Dealer license from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) and Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA).
- Custodian: Sub-custody held with insured institutional custodians Gemini Trust Company LLC and Coinbase Custody.
- Deposit Options: Free Interac e-Transfer, linked Canadian bank accounts, and instant deposits up to $5,000.
- Trading Fees: Built-in 1.50% to 2.00% operational spread per trade (reduced to 1.0% for Premium clients with $100K+ and 0.5% for Generation clients with $500K+).
- Withdrawals: On-chain cryptocurrency withdrawals to personal hardware wallets are fully supported with dynamic network gas fees.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- All-in-one integration with Canadian banking, TFSA, RRSP, and stock trading.
- Institutional-grade regulatory compliance and strict cold storage security.
- Instant deposits from Canadian bank accounts.
- Clean, intuitive mobile app for iOS and Android.
Cons
- Trading spreads (1.5% - 2.0%) are higher than dedicated order-book exchanges like NDAX (0.2%) or Kraken (0.16%).
- Does not offer advanced order types (limit orders, stop-loss) for active day traders.
Wealthsimple vs Dedicated Canadian Crypto Exchanges
| Platform | Spread / Fee | Free Withdrawals | Staking Support | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wealthsimple | 1.5% - 2.0% | Dynamic Network Fee | Yes (ETH, SOL, ADA) | All-in-one portfolio convenience |
| Shakepay | 1.0% - 2.0% | 100% Free (Covered) | No | Beginners & Daily Bitcoin DCA |
| Newton | 0.75% - 1.5% | First $5 Covered | No | Low spreads on 70+ coins |
| NDAX | 0.20% flat | Flat CAD fee | Yes | Lowest trading fee in Canada |
To compare all Canadian options, visit our Best Crypto Exchanges in Canada Guide and our Canadian Crypto Sign-Up Bonus Directory.