Scotia Discount Brokerage Inc. today introduced the Online Investing Adventure–an engaging, interactive learning opportunity that simulates real-life investing. Participants manage a fantasy $100,000 investment portfolio and experience online investing–buying stocks, options and mutual funds just like they would with a real account, except there’s no risk.

“The Online Investing Adventure’s focus is on learning and contains the same research, information and tools currently available to Scotia Discount Brokerage online customers. The simulation also provides valuable educational materials including tips, tools, a glossary, a powerful learning centre, and access to commentary from leading industry experts,” said Rob Pitfield, executive vice president of wealth management with Scotiabank.

All participants who out-perform the TSE 300 during the program period will be eligible to win one of two 2002 Volvo S60 T5 sports sedans. Additional prizes will be awarded on a random basis to participants regardless of their performance or knowledge of the stock market.

“Unlike other trading simulations, we are not rewarding the person who builds the largest portfolio through risky investment strategies. We want to motivate investors to learn while promoting responsible investing principles,” added Pitfield.

“This learn-by-doing environment targets individuals of all levels of knowledge whether they be novice, intermediate or sophisticated investors. The Online Investing Adventure is a reliable testing ground for individuals to experience online investing without any risk before investing real dollars.”

“It is so realistic, it even incorporates commission schedules, dividends, stock splits and margin calls. All trades are placed online and for maximum authenticity, every trade is executed using the actual market price at the time the trade is made,” said Marianne Hasold-Schilter, managing director and COO of Scotia Discount Brokerage Inc.

Earlier this month, Scotia Discount Brokerage launched a similar program for employees of Scotiabank to further enhance their personal investment knowledge and their effectiveness as a knowledgeable sales network. “This program gives employees access to a simulated online trading environment that not only highlights the features of our product, such as research, but also allows them to interact with our online offerings from the client’s perspective,” said Hasold-Schilter.

Both the Online Investing Adventure and the internal employee program are powered by Simvest Solutions-–a global leader in e-Learning solutions for banks and brokerages. “Today’s investors are demanding more access to tools and resources that allow them to build their confidence with online investing. Simvesting programs are helping Scotia Discount Brokerage clients and employees gain knowledge. We are excited to be a part of these initiatives,” said Chris Chandler, Simvest’s CEO.

The Online Investing Adventure will also be supported on MSN.CA, featured on the new personal financial portal, MSN Money. People interested in finding out more can log on to http://adventure.sdbi.com for a guided tour or to register.