International share trading accounts

Aussies are not locked into buying shares in our own domestic market. Instead, with the expansion of brokers, there are numerous options if you want to open an international share trading account.

This guide will show you how to buy international shares as well as allow you to compare international share trading accounts.

Share Trading Account Offer

eToro

USD 0

Standard brokerage - US shares

Share Trading Account Offer

Get $0 brokerage on US, Hong Kong and European stocks with trades as little as $50 when you join the world's biggest social trading network.

• $0 brokerage for AU, US, Hong Kong and European stocks
• Trades starting from $50
• Fractional shares
• Copy top traders

Go to site

More info

Important: Share trading carries risk of capital loss.

Disclaimer: Trading CFDs and forex on leverage is high-risk and losses could exceed your deposits.

Compare international share trading accounts

1 - 6 of 6

Updated regularly

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

Close

Name	Product	Standard brokerage for US shares	Currency conversion fee	Asset class
eToro Finder AwardExclusive		US$0	50-150 pips	ASX shares, Global shares, US shares, ETFs	CFD service. Capital at risk. Finder exclusive: Get 12 months of investment tracking app Delta PRO for free when you fund your eToro account (T&Cs apply). Join the world’s biggest social trading network when you trade stocks, commodities and currencies from the one account.	Go to site View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
IG Share Trading Finder Award		US$0	0.70%	ASX shares, Global shares, US shares, UK shares, ETFs	$0 brokerage for US and global shares plus get an active trader discount of $5 commission on Australian shares. Enjoy some of the lowest brokerage fees on the market when trading Australian and international shares, plus get access to 24-hour customer support.	Go to site View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Moomoo Share Trading Exclusive		US$0.99	55 pips or 0.0055 AUD/USD	ASX shares, Global shares, US shares, ETFs	Finder exclusive: Get an additional 30 days on top of the regular brokerage-free period for new accounts (see link for details). T&Cs apply. Trade shares on the ASX, the US markets and buy ETFs with Moomoo. Plus join a community over 18 million investors.	Go to site View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
CMC Invest Finder Award		US$0	0.60%	ASX shares, Global shares, Options trading, US shares, mFunds, ETFs	$0 brokerage on global shares including US, UK and Japan markets. Trade up to 35,000 products, including shares, crypto, ETFs and managed funds, with access to 15 major global and Australian stock exchanges. Plus, buy Aussie shares for $0 brokerage up to $1,000. (Limited to one buy order per stock per trading day).	Go to site View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Webull		US$0.25	0.50% (50 pips)	ASX shares, Options trading, US shares, ETFs	Earn US$100 in cash vouchers when you fund your new account with US$2,000 until March 30, 2024. Plus, earn up to 5.3% p.a. interest on your US cash account (T&Cs apply). Trade ASX and US stocks and US options, plus gain access to inbuilt news platforms and educational resources. You can also start trading for less with fractional shares.	Go to site View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Tiger Brokers Exclusive		US$2	37 pips	ASX shares, Global shares, US shares, ETFs	Finder exclusive: Get 15 commission-free trades on US or ASX equities for the first 180 days and US$50 fractional shares when you deposit at least US$500. Plus, all new customers get 1 free trade per month for the first 12 months (T&Cs apply). Get one brokerage-free trade per month for the first 12 months for US or ASX markets. T&Cs apply.	Go to site View details	Compare	loading Fetching your data...

loading

Important: The standard brokerage fee displayed is the trade cost for new customers to purchase $1,000 of either Australian or US shares. Where a platform charges different fees for both US and Australian shares we show the lower of the two. Where both CHESS sponsored and custodian shares are offered, we display the cheapest option.

What is international share trading?

International share trading is the process of buying and selling shares in companies listed on global stock exchanges.

An international share trading account allows Australians to trade shares in global companies instead of being limited to companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). For example, Alphabet (Google's parent company) is listed on the American stock exchange Nasdaq. So if Australians wish to buy Alphabet shares, they’ll need to do this via an international share trading account.

How to buy international shares from Australia

Buying international shares can be done in 4 easy steps:

1. Compare brokers with access to global stocks.
2. Open your account by providing an ID.
3. Fund your account by transferring money from your bank account.
4. Search and select the shares you want to invest in and start trading.

Investing in the global share market is a lot like investing in the Australian market. However, you'll need to find the right stockbroker or online trading platform.

This guide explains what to look for in an international share trading account, how to open one and what to do with the account once you've opened it.

Read on to learn more, or start with the basics of share trading if it's new to you. If you already know how to buy international shares, you can simply compare brokers and open an account.

Which global stock exchanges can I access?

The global markets available will vary between providers, so it's best to check if a provider can access the particular stock exchange you're looking for before you open an account. However, most international share trading platforms will provide traders access to the following major global exchanges and more:

• Australia – The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)
• United States – The New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq
• United Kingdom – London Stock Exchange
• Europe – Euronext
• Asia – Japan Exchange Group, Shanghai Stock Exchange, Hong Kong Stock Exchange

What are the benefits of international share trading?

Some of the major benefits of international share trading include the following:

• Access more shares. The Australian share market only represents around 2% of the world's shares. International share trading allows you to access thousands of global shares that you wouldn't have access to if you were trading on the ASX alone.
• Invest in major global brands. You can invest in shares of major global companies such as Meta (Facebook's parent company), Tesla, Amazon, PayPal, Google and Apple.
• Diversification. Investing in global stocks as well as local Australian shares will ensure your portfolio is more diversified. Remember, if you live in Australia, work in Australia and own a home in Australia, by default you are incredibly exposed to the country's economy. An internationally diversified portfolio will help protect you from any major dips in the Australian market.
• 24/7 trading. You can trade 24 hours a day rather than being restricted to set hours.
• Cheaper brokerage. Depending on where you trade, it can be cheaper to buy overseas shares than to invest in Australia.

International market news (December 2023)

• S&P 500: The S&P 500 has come back after a record month in January. The index closed down 2.6% for the month of February, following a range of quarterly updates which suggest business leaders are bearish about their prospects moving forward. The US market has now slipped back below 4,000 points.
• Hang Seng: The Hang Seng has entered a correction territory, (down 10%) after investors began to sell off the Chinese market. In January, the index gained a major boost after China moved away from its COVID-19 lockdown policies and reopened the country. Investors were incredibly bullish about China's prospects after it reopened. But now the Hang Seng is close to giving up all its years gains, as it falls back below 20,000 points.
• FTSE 100: The London Stock Exchange or FTSE 100 recorded its best February since 2019. It was up 1.3% off the back of higher earnings and a weaker pound earlier in the month.

International share trading brokerage fees

Trading international shares can incur different fees and commissions than what you would pay when trading Australian shares. Here's an idea of the fees you can expect to pay when trading shares on the New York Stock Exchange or the London Stock Exchange.

What are the risks of international share trading?

International stock exchanges give you access to many more investment options than those listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). However, it can carry a few more risks than the domestic market, such as foreign exchange rate risks, liquidity risks and risks from changes in foreign governments.

Here are some things to be aware of:

Exchange rate volatility. You will need to convert Australian dollars into a foreign currency to buy shares listed on an international stock exchange. When you convert the money back to Australian dollars, there’s a risk the exchange rate will be worse than when you purchased the foreign currency. This could offset the profits you've made on your shares.

Liquidity. You can only realise capital gains (or losses) after settling a sell order. Overseas stock exchanges can have fewer participants and a lower trading volume. So if you’re trading on a small international stock exchange, there’s a chance you may not be able to find a buyer for your shares and will have to sell at a significant discount.

Foreign policy. Just as the Australian government’s policies can impact your bottom line, overseas governments can introduce policies and restrictions that can reduce your return on international investment. Many companies also have operations running in politically unstable regions. Political turmoil such as a military coup or civil war can derail foreign investments. Do your homework carefully before investing.

Tax legislation. The capital gains and other tax implications of trading international shares are more complex than if you were only trading Australian shares. You may need to pay for professional tax advice.

Different time zones. You’ll need to manage opposite time zones when buying or selling shares in major international markets like America and Europe.

What fees and charges are involved with international share trading?

• Admin fee. Some providers charge a registration fee, an ongoing membership or an admin fee to use their brokerage services.
• Brokerage fee. The brokerage fee is either a flat fee or a percentage of trade, whichever is greater. You may be able to find a deal on brokerage fees as a new customer.
• Foreign exchange commission. The international share trading account provider will take a margin when exchanging funds from Australian dollars to a foreign currency.
• Market fees. These are charges or fees for trading in a particular market. For example, trades in the US are subject to SEC fees and trades in the UK attract a stamp duty charge. Local exchange fees can also apply.

Invest in global exchange traded funds (ETFs) and exchange traded options (ETOs)

Exchange traded funds (ETFs) and exchange traded options (ETOs) provide alternative ways for Australians to access international shares.

An ETF is a fund traded on an exchange in the same way as a share. An ETF consists of many different types of assets. For example, stock ETFs can comprise hundreds of shares from specific industries such as energy or mining. ETFs mirror the movements and returns of a particular market. There are many global market ETFs that are listed in Australia, including the following:

• BetaShares FTSE 100 ETF
• iShares S&P Europe ETF
• iShares MSCI Japan ETF
• Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF
• SPDR S&P World ex Australian Fund

Options contracts (ETOs) give you the "option" to buy a security in the future for an agreed price. For example, equities options let you trade now on a company's future performance.

Invest in international shares through managed funds

It’s possible to invest in international shares through managed funds. Some global-themed managed funds are available through select online share trading platforms thanks to the ASX Mfund settlement service.

When you buy and sell units in an mFund, you can track your units along with other investments such as shares and ETFs in a single place online.

How to find the best international share trading platform

When you’re comparing international share trading accounts, make sure to consider the following features:

• Brokerage fee: This is a commission for executing a trade and is a flat fee or a percentage charge, whichever is greater. Providers charge a brokerage fee per trade. Some may even offer free brokerage deals.
• Available markets: Where can you trade? Almost every provider can give you access to the US, but not all platforms let you trade in some areas of Asia and Europe.
• If you can trade options: Consider whether you can trade ETOs and ETFs alongside shares and in which markets. Only some international share trading accounts let you trade options.
• Execution speed: Check how long it takes for funds to clear and execute the trade.
• The buffer: The account provider will take a couple of percentage points extra as a buffer against international currency fluctuations. This happens in the time it takes for the trade to clear.
• Exchange rate margin: The account provider will often charge a bit extra on top of the real currency exchange rate to make a profit when converting Australian dollars to a foreign currency and vice versa.
• Trading platform: Is smartphone compatibility with a mobile app an important feature or are you happy with a browser-based platform? Either way, the trading platform should be easy to use. You should also be able to access account services such as tax, profit and loss, and dividend reporting tools quickly and easily.
• Registration fees: Are you required to pay a registration or membership fee to open an international share trading account?
• Education and research tools: Check which market tools and resources you can access to educate yourself about different companies and foreign markets on offer. Fundamental analysis and charting tools are key to making better trades.
• Customer support: Can you contact the provider outside business hours? Do they provide a dedicated account manager for clients?

Big Four banks' international share trading accounts comparison

We’ve compared the Big Four banks' international share trading platforms in the table below. The brokerage fees listed in the table apply to share trading. Options transactions attract an additional fee per contract.

How do I open an international share trading account?

You can apply for an international share trading account online in less than 15 minutes. Compare accounts in the table above and click on the site to begin your application.

Eligibility

Application requirements can vary between different international share trading account providers. Generally, eligibility requirements for personal applicants will include the following:

• Be over the age of 18
• Have an Australian residential address
• Have a valid contact number

Documentation and ID needed

If you’re a new customer to the share trading platform, you’ll need to verify your identity before you can begin to make trades. Have the following information on hand when you start your application for a share trading account.

• Photographic identification such as your passport, driver’s licence or proof of age card
• Your tax file number (TFN) or exemption code (optional)

Companies, organisations and trusts must be registered in Australia and lodge a US Withholding Tax Treaty Statement to trade in the United States. If you’re opening the account in the name of a trust or company, you’ll also need to supply the following:

• Australian company number (ACN)
• Australian business number (ABN)

Pros and cons of international share trading

Tips for people when trading international shares

International share trading accounts can give you access to some of the biggest names in the world. However, there are risks and issues to consider, such as foreign regulatory considerations, time zone differences and lack of overseas market knowledge. Keep the following tips in mind if you’re just starting out:

• Always have a phone number for your broker.
• Check the deposit requirements before signing up.
• Trading frequently? You might be eligible for discounts.
• Always be aware of the fees involved.
• Ensure you have access to the international markets you want.
• Ensure the site security – 128-bit encryption is a must.

Frequently asked questions

• Is it good to buy international shares?

  Adding international shares to your portfolio comes with a number of benefits including lowering portfolio risk, reducing the risks of Australia's economy going into a downturn, providing an additional source of portfolio growth and tempering volatility risks.

• How do you pay taxes on international shares?

  When it comes to paying taxes overseas, it'll all depend on the withholding rate.

  How much you will pay will ultimately depend on the treaties that Australia has with the other countries and the size of your investment.

  To make this easier, let's start with an example. If you invest in the US, you will have a withholding tax rate of 15% if you have a W8BEN form. Without one, you will be paying a tax of 30% on shares, plus a withholding tax of 30% on dividends. But if you happen to be an incredibly large shareholder and own more than 10% of the voting rights, the amount of taxes falls to 5%, and if you own 80% of the voting rights, it drops to 0%.

• What are the best international share trading platforms?

  Finder's recent awards found that the best broker for international shares is Interactive Brokers.

  When it comes to investing in US shares, eToro took out our award, while best overall broker went to CMC markets.

  While Finder's awards are independently tracked across 40 brokers and 1,400 data points, it is important to highlight that there's no one "best broker". You should try to find a trading account that matches your own circumstances and needs.

• Can you buy international shares on the ASX?

  The ASX is for Australian-listed companies, meaning you can't buy international shares directly online.

  However, many international exchange traded funds (ETFs) are listed on the ASX. These trade the same way as any Australian shares. You can buy them off the ASX, which is open from 10am to 4pm AEST.

• Can CommSec buy international shares?

  Yes, CommSec will allow you to buy international shares in the following countries:

  • North America
  • Canada
  • Asia Pacific - Japan, Hong Kong
  • Singapore
  • Europe and the Middle East - France, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland
  • London