Investments that can be held in an RRSP

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What products can you hold in an RRSP?

Want to contribute to your RRSP while diversifying your portfolio? Find out which investments are eligible.

Eligible investments

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Self-directed investments

Public stocks
Treasury bills
Term deposits
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)
Bonds
Put and call options

Ineligible investments

Risk of penalties if held in an RRSP

Stocks or investments in a private company where you are a designated shareholder
Personal assets (jewellery, art, antiques, etc.)
Gold, silver and other precious metals
Land
Employee stock options
Commodity futures
Bonds issued by a wholly owned subsidiary whose shares are not publicly traded

Mortgage loans on commercial properties owned by related persons
Investments in small businesses
Naked put and call options
Bonds and debentures issued by companies whose shares are listed on an authorized foreign stock exchange, even if the company's shares are allowed

Need more information? An advisor can help you find the investments that are right for you.

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Tip

You can invest in your RRSP year round by setting up a systematic savings plan. It's the easy way to save for retirement.

Little details that matter

There are consequences, including a special tax of up to 50% of the fair market value of the prohibited investment. This tax is calculated from the purchase date or the date on which the investment become prohibited.

Prohibited investments are generally investments you have close ties with. For example, if you directly or indirectly hold 10% or more of a company's shares or have significant interest in a trust, the shares of this company or trust are prohibited.

If an investment is both prohibited and non-qualified, it will be treated as a prohibited investment. If you think you might have prohibited investments in your RRSP, speak to an advisor as soon as possible to rectify the situation.