Investing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you want hands-on control or prefer expert guidance, there are different ways to manage your investments. The key is knowing what works best for you, your goals, your needs, and your abilities when it comes to the knowledge, time, self discipline, and emotional control required to invest.
Before choosing how to invest, take a moment to reflect on what you need and how you like to make decisions:
If you enjoy researching and making financial choices, you might prefer a hands-on approach. If not, working with a professional could be a better fit.
Managing your own investments takes effort. You’ll need to stay informed, track your progress, and make adjustments when needed.
Investing can be emotional. If market changes make you anxious, you may want support from an advisor or a more automated option.
You can choose one approach or mix and match depending on your needs and comfort level.
Work with a registered financial advisor who can guide you through the process. They can:
Help you set financial goals: Advisors take time to understand your priorities and help you plan for the future.
Build a personalized portfolio: Your investments will be tailored to your goals, timeline, and risk tolerance.
Recommend suitable investments: Advisors suggest options that match your needs and explain how they work.
Learn more about Choosing a Financial Advisor
Robo-advisors are online platforms that use technology to help you invest. In Canada, they combine automation with human oversight. They offer:
Lower-cost portfolios: Automated systems help reduce fees while still offering professional guidance.
Automated recommendations based on a questionnaire: You’ll answer questions about your goals and comfort with risk, and the system builds a portfolio for you.
Minimal need for trade approvals: Once your plan is set, trades happen automatically—no need to approve each one.
Before you sign up, make sure the robo-advisor is registered with your provincial securities regulator.
Also known as DIY investing, this option gives you full control over your portfolio. It’s a cost-effective choice, but not for everyone. You’ll need:
Time to research and monitor investments: You’re responsible for choosing and tracking your investments.
Discipline to stick to your strategy: It’s easy to get distracted by market noise. Staying focused is key.
Emotional control during market ups and downs: You’ll need to make decisions without panicking when markets fluctuate.
No matter how you choose to invest, there are risks and responsibilities. The more control you take, the more decisions you’ll need to make. Always:
Know the fees and charges involved: Every investment option comes with costs. Understand what you’re paying and why.
Understand how your investments are chosen: Whether you choose them yourself or work with an advisor, make sure you know what you’re investing in.
Know where to go for help if something goes wrong: If you have questions or concerns, reach out to a registered advisor or your provincial securities regulator.