Securities regulators in Ontario and British Columbia have given National Bank Discount Brokerage the green light to offer its Express mode brokerage service outside Quebec.

Autonomous investors in these two provinces can now choose a brokerage option that enables them to do their stock market transactions directly on the trading floor without first having a representative check the suitability of their trade orders versus their investment goals and risk tolerance.

This option has been available to Quebec investors have since January 2001. Investors in other provinces where the firm operates will be able to access Express mode brokerage as soon as each province’s regulatory authorities give their approval.

According to the brokerage firm, Express mode meets the needs of investors who prefer to rely on their own investment knowledge. Trade orders are sent straight to the markets, providing clients with direct and faster access — a significant advantage, especially during periods of high stock price volatility.

According to Yves Breton, president of National Bank Discount Brokerage, investors’ increasing use of the Internet is an important factor in making them more autonomous: ” While Express mode brokerage is perfect for the needs of this type of investor, it’s not for everyone. That is why we will continue to offer Direct mode brokerage to clients who prefer to rely on the services of a representative to check the suitability of their trades.”