National Bank Direct Brokerage (NBDB) is a self-directed investment service provider, offering an online platform for trading and managing various investment accounts.
If you are looking to invest as an expat or high-net-worth individual, which is what I specialize in, you can email me ([email protected]) or WhatsApp (+44-7393-450-837).
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This page will explore what is National Bank Direct Brokerage, what it does, and whether its financial services platform and investment offerings work for your financial needs.
What is National Bank Direct Brokerage?
National Bank Direct Brokerage is the online brokerage division of the National Bank of Canada, a financial institution established in 1859.
Since its founding in 1987, NBDB has provided Canadian investors with accessible self-directed investing services.
Over the years, NBDB has developed a comprehensive suite of investment offerings, including a trading platform, mobile-friendly site, telephone support, and educational resources like articles, tutorials, and events to enhance client knowledge and confidence in managing their investments.
What are National Bank Direct Brokerage fees?
In 2021, NBDB became the first Canadian bank-owned brokerage to introduce $0 commission on all transactions, regardless of the account size.
Additionally, NBDB launched a fully-paid securities lending program, allowing clients to earn passive income by lending their securities.
The brokerage also offers accessibility by waiving its annual $100 administration fee for young investors under 30, clients with eligible assets of at least $20,000, and participants in specific professional financial programs or InvestCube accounts.
What types of products can you trade at National Bank Direct Brokerage?
Clients can trade equities, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and options to build customized portfolios.
For more traditional investment strategies, mutual funds, bonds, and guaranteed investment certificates (GICs) are available.
The platform also provides access to exchange-traded debentures and linked notes, offering structured solutions and fixed-income opportunities for investors seeking income or diversification.
Distinctive Services:
- Advantage Direct Brokerage: Tailored for clients with $500,000+ in assets. Benefits include a priority phone line, access to experienced representatives, preferred interest rates, complimentary personalized reports, and shared benefits with a family member at the same address.
- Private Direct Brokerage: An exclusive service by invitation only for high-volume clients. Includes a dedicated account manager, direct phone and email communication, preferred interest rates, and shared benefits with a family member regardless of address.
- Exclusive Remote Advisory Service (offered by NBC): A specialized service providing personalized financial advice remotely, enabling clients to receive expert guidance tailored to their investment needs without visiting a branch.
National Bank Direct Brokerage Key Executives
- Laurent Ferreira – President and Chief Executive Officer
Laurent Ferreira has been President and CEO of National Bank since November 2021, overseeing the bank’s strategies and subsidiaries with support from the Senior Leadership Team. He joined National Bank in 1998, held various senior roles in the Financial Markets group, and served as COO before his current position. He holds a Master’s in Finance from HEC Montréal and a Bachelor’s in Economics from Université du Québec à Montréal. - Lucie Blanchet – Executive Vice-President, Personal Banking and Client Experience
Lucie Blanchet manages personal banking operations, including branches, financial planners, contact centers, and digital services. She joined National Bank in 2002 and has held leadership roles in risk management and personal and commercial banking. A CPA with over 25 years of experience, she previously worked at Société Générale, Crédit Lyonnais, and KPMG. - Michael Denham – Executive Vice-President, Commercial and Private Banking
Michael Denham oversees strategic development, client experience, and growth in commercial and private banking. He joined National Bank in 2021, bringing extensive leadership experience from roles at BDC, Accenture, CGI, Bombardier, and McKinsey. He holds degrees from the London School of Economics and Princeton University and mentors entrepreneurs while serving on boards such as Sustainable Development Technology Canada. - Marie Chantal Gingras – Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice-President, Finance
Marie Chantal Gingras oversees finance, accounting, corporate treasury, strategic planning, and ESG efforts at National Bank. Since joining in 1998, she has held leadership roles in finance and personal banking. A CFA charterholder with a BBA from HEC Montréal, Ms. Gingras actively supports community organizations like Maison Bleue and Regroupement Partage. - Julie Lévesque – Executive Vice-President, Technology and Operations
Julie Lévesque leads National Bank’s technology strategy and operations, having returned to the bank in 2020 after roles at the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board. With over 25 years in IT, she has a passion for innovation and was recognized as CIO of the Year in 2022. She holds an Executive MBA from McGill-HEC Montréal and serves on several boards, including CRIM and Flinks Technology.
National Bank Direct Brokerage Contact Information
- Phone Numbers:
Service in English or French: 1-800-363-3511 (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET)
Service in Mandarin or Cantonese: 1-888-991-0909 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET) - Address:
National Bank Direct Brokerage, 800 Saint-Jacques Street, Business Centre, 3rd floor, Office 16281, Montreal, Quebec, H3C 1A3
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