🌎 Investing in US Stocks & Mutual Funds from India – A Beginner’s Guide
In today’s global economy, investing beyond borders is no longer a privilege limited to NRIs or global banks. With technology and regulatory changes, Indians can now diversify their portfolios by investing in US stocks and mutual funds directly from home.
Let’s break it down step by step.
Why Consider Investing in US Stocks?
- Global Giants – US markets host the world’s most innovative and profitable companies.
- Dollar Diversification – Since investments are in USD, your money grows in a stronger currency.
- Portfolio Balance – Reduces over-dependence on Indian markets.
- New Sectors – Exposure to themes like AI, electric vehicles, biotech, and cloud computing.
How Can You Invest from India?
There are mainly three ways:
1. Direct US Stock Investments
- Through international brokerage platforms (like Vested, INDmoney, Groww, or HDFC Securities).
- You can buy even fractional shares – meaning you don’t need $3,000 to buy one Amazon share; you can start small with $50–100.
- Funds are transferred under the RBI’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) – limit of $250,000 per year per individual.
2. Indian Mutual Funds with US Exposure
- Many Indian AMCs offer International Funds / Fund of Funds that invest in US indices like S&P 500, Nasdaq 100, or in sectors like tech and healthcare.
- Minimum investment can be as low as ₹500 via SIP.
- Easy, convenient, and no need to handle USD remittances.
3. Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
- Both India-listed international ETFs (like Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 ETF) and US-listed ETFs are available.
- US-listed ETFs require a foreign brokerage account.
Tax Aspects to Keep in Mind
- US Stocks: Dividends attract 25% withholding tax in the US, but capital gains are taxed in India (as per your income tax slab).
- Mutual Funds (India Route): Taxation similar to equity/debt mutual funds, depending on fund type.
- Double Taxation Avoidance: India has a treaty with the US, so you don’t get taxed twice on the same income.
Pros and Cons at a Glance
FinSattva Take 💡
Remember, investing globally is not about chasing trends—it’s about building long-term wealth with balanced exposure. 🌱
👉 At FinSattva, we believe – Finance Made Simple. ✨
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