Ethereum is one of the most popular cryptocurrencies available on the market. The coin uses public key cryptography to record transactions on the Ethereum blockchain. Blockchain technology allows cryptocurrency to function without a central authority and it can operate on a peer-to-peer network. Cryptocurrency as a whole has increased in popularity over the past few years enabling Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other tokens to thrive.
How To Buy Ethereum In Canada
- Cryptocurrency Exchanges – The most popular and easy way to buy, sell or trade crypto including Ethereum is through crypto trading platforms such as CoinSmart and Weathsimple Crypto.
- Peer-to-Peer Exchanges – If you’re looking for more anonymity while trading, peer-to-peer exchanges may be preferable. The platform works as a market where you trade your local currency for various currencies including Ethereum.
- Ethereum ATMs – If you’re looking to buy a small amount of Ethereum, you could use an Ethereum ATM. These ATMs have low fees and are easy to use. You simply need an Ethereum wallet to use it.
What Is Ethereum?
Ethereum is a form of cryptocurrency and is second only to Bitcoin with respect to market capitalization. It exists on an open-source blockchain and boasts smart contract functionality (smart contracts are programs within a blockchain that run when certain conditions are met) the native crypto of the Ethereum platform is Ether. Ethereum itself is programmable which allows investors to use it for various digital assets.
Where Can You Buy Ethereum In Canada?
There are many crypto trading platforms you can use the buy Ethereum. Depending on the platform you use, fees and available features will vary. Here is a list of the best crypto trading platforms for Ethereum.
CoinSmart
CoinSmart is a crypto trading platform that is based in Canada. They are a publicly traded company on the NEO Exchange and are known for its ease of use and features. CoinSmart offers same-day deposits and minimal wait times, real-time trading activity tracking, and multiple funding methods including Interac, SEPA, and wire transfers.
CoinSmart Fees
Trading fees are commission based at CoinSmart. Single trades have a 0.20% trading fee while double trades have a fee of 0.30%. If you’re looking to stake your crypto, fees can go up to 30% of net staking rewards.
Coinbase
Coinbase is a simplistic crypto platform where you can buy Ethereum and develop your crypto portfolio. Coinbase is available in over 100 countries and has over 73 million verified users. They offer secure, offline storage to ensure the protection of your crypto assets. It also insures your crypto assets with FDIC insurance and covers up to $250,000. Coinbase also offers a mobile application where you can manage your portfolio and set up recurring buys.
Coinbase Fees
When you buy, sell or trade crypto through Coinbase, the fees charged will vary. Fees are determined using a number of factors such as your payment method, the size of the order, your location and the market conditions.
NDAX
NDAX is a secure and easy-to-use platform that enables users to buy, sell, and trade crypto assets including Ethereum. NDAX is a Canadian-based company but is available across the world.
The NDAX platform is fairly intuitive, making it easy for beginners to trade crypto. Similarly, they have advanced trading features and tools for seasoned traders such as portfolio reports and the ability to set up recurring buys. NDAX also enables users to make large-scale trades through NDAX Wealth which provides a personal experience with no price slippage. Users can also earn rewards by staking their digital assets.
NDAX Fees
Whether you’re buying or selling, fees are set as 0.20%. Funding your account is free, however, withdrawing from your account costs $4.99 CAD.
Wealthsimple Crypto
Wealthsimple, well known for its popular stock trading platform, also offers Wealthsimple Crypto, Canada’s first regulated crypto trading platform. Wealthsimple Crypto can be accessed via the Wealthsimple Trade platform, users who do not have a Wealthsimple Trade will need to create one. Once you have an account, you can get started trading with as little cash as $1.
You can access up-to-date crypto news in-app so you have the right information needed to make the best investments. Transfer crypto to and from your Wealthsimple account, set a target price to buy or sell, and stack Ethereum and Solana. If you’re new to crypto trading, Wealthsimple Crypto is an easy-to-use platform that can help you hone your crypto trading skills.
Wealthsimple Crypto Fees
Wealthsimple charges a 1.5% to 2% operating fee on each transaction. These transaction fees include operational fees, safe coin storage, and the cost of their liquidity partners. There is no fee to withdraw or deposit coins and Wealthsimple does not charge commission on trades.
Netcoins
Netcoins is the very first publicly traded crypto trading platform that is regulated in Canada. Users can trade over 30 different cryptocurrencies using Netcoins, including Ethereum. With Netcoin, anyone can start investing in crypto as you can start buying Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies with as little as $10. Moreover, it also allows users to set price alerts for strategic buys and enables limit orders so your trades are executed at a specific, predetermined price.
Netcoins is a great platform to buy Ethereum as it’s known to have fantastic customer service for any issues that may arise during your crypto trading experience. They’re also a government-regulated company, which adds to their security.
Netcoins Fees
Trades have a fee of 0.5%, however, there are no funding fees or cash withdrawal fees.
Where Can You Store Your Ethereum?
In order to store cryptocurrency, a buyer can keep it on their trading platform (e.g. Binance, Wealthsimple Crypto, etc), however, once a buyer has begun to accumulate a significant amount of crypto assets, it is highly recommended that they invest in a crypto wallet. There are wallets specifically designed for Ethereum that can be hot or cold:
Software (Hot) Wallets
These wallets are stored online and are always connected to the internet and the cryptocurrency; you can store, send, and receive tokens using this kind of wallet. They are connected to the internet and are therefore less secure and more vulnerable to security breaches. However, a hot wallet is considered a better alternative to keeping crypto assets in a crypto exchange. Some examples of hot wallets are Exodus and Edge.
Hardware (Cold) Wallets
These wallets are the most secure and keep your crypto assets stored offline where they will not be subject to online security breaches and software attacks. Cold wallets can be thought of like a USB drive, however, if you lose your password you completely lose access to your cryptocurrencies. Some examples of these wallets are the Ledger Nano S and Ledger Nano X.
Ethereum FAQs
Is Ethereum safe to buy in Canada?
Can I use Ethereum to make purchases?
What’s the difference between Bitcoin and Ethereum?
Bottom Line
Ethereum is second to only Bitcoin for the title of the most popular and sought-after cryptocurrency. It is important to note that cryptocurrencies are new and are particularly volatile; be sure to do your research before going ahead and purchasing some Ethereum for your portfolio
