Global Investing from India: US Stocks, ETFs, Bonds & More
Explore global investing with Shriram Financial Services and access international markets and more through an IFSCA-regulated platform.
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Global Investments: Think Global, Invest Smarter
Why limit your portfolio to one market when the world is full of opportunities? Global investments let you invest in leading international companies, diversify your portfolio, and tap into growth across global markets. With Shriram Financial Services, investing in global markets is simple, seamless, and powered by expert insights and intuitive tools to help you invest smarter.
Domestic, International & Global Funds: What's the Difference?
These terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different levels of geographic exposure in your portfolio. In simple terms, domestic funds keep your investments within India, international funds take you beyond India, and global funds combine opportunities from multiple markets worldwide.
Fund Type
Where It Invests
Key Benefit
Domestic Fund
Invests only in Indian companies listed on the NSE and BSE.
Provides focused exposure to India's economy and stock market.
International Fund
Invests exclusively in markets outside India, such as the US, Europe, or other global regions.
Helps diversify your portfolio beyond the Indian market.
Global Fund
Invests across multiple countries worldwide and may include both Indian and international companies.
Offers broad, diversified exposure through a single investment.
Why Should Indians Invest Globally?
Global investing allows Indian investors to diversify beyond domestic markets and participate in growth opportunities worldwide. Key benefits include:
Access Global Market Leaders
Invest in some of the world's largest companies across technology, AI, semiconductors, healthcare, and consumer sectors that are not listed on Indian exchanges.
Diversify Currency Exposure
Gain exposure to global currencies such as the US dollar, helping reduce reliance on the Indian rupee and adding another layer of portfolio diversification.
Reduce Single-Country Risk
Spread investments across multiple economies and markets, reducing dependence on a single country's performance.
Participate in Global Growth Trends
Benefit from long-term themes such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, cloud computing, biotechnology, and digital transformation.
Enhance Portfolio Diversification
Access different industries, asset classes, and regions to build a more balanced and resilient investment portfolio.
Unlock International Opportunities
Explore global stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, and other investment products that may offer exposure beyond what is available in India.
Ways to Invest Globally from India
Indian investors can access global markets through a variety of investment options, each offering different levels of risk, return potential, and diversification benefits.
US Stocks & ETFs (Direct Investing)
Invest directly in globally recognised companies and international ETFs to gain exposure to sectors such as technology, AI, healthcare, and consumer brands.
Global Mutual Funds (Feeder Funds and FOF)
Access international markets through professionally managed mutual funds that invest in overseas stocks and global indices.
International Funds (Ex-India Funds)
Invest in funds focused exclusively on markets outside India to diversify your portfolio across global economies and regions.
Whether you are seeking growth, income, or diversification, combining multiple global investment avenues can help create a balanced and resilient portfolio.
US Stocks for Indians
Indian investors can legally invest in US stocks through the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS). With a simple online account opening process, you can access some of the world's largest companies and diversify your portfolio beyond Indian markets.
How to Open a US Brokerage Account?
Opening a US stock investing account is quick and fully digital. Complete your KYC using PAN and Aadhaar, submit the required documents, sign the W-8BEN tax declaration form, and link your Indian bank account to start investing.
Top US Sectors: Technology, AI & Healthcare
The US market provides access to globally leading sectors that are driving innovation and long-term growth.
Technology & AI
Companies leading advancements in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and semiconductors.
Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals
Global healthcare leaders, biotech innovators, and medical technology companies.
Consumer & Digital Businesses
International brands and digital platforms with worldwide operations.
S&P 500 vs Nasdaq 100
Both indices are popular among Indian investors seeking US market exposure.
Feature
S&P 500
Nasdaq 100
Exposure
500 leading US companies
100 large non-financial companies
Focus
Broad market diversification
Technology and growth-focused
Risk Level
Moderate
Higher
Best Suited For
Core US portfolio exposure
Growth-oriented investors
Dividend Stocks vs Growth Stocks
A diversified portfolio often combines both, based on your financial goals and risk appetite.
Dividend Stocks
Generate regular income through dividend pay-outs.
Growth Stocks
Focus on capital appreciation and long-term growth potential.
Minimum Investment & Brokerage Fees
US investing is accessible through fractional shares, allowing you to start with relatively small investment amounts. Before investing, review brokerage charges, currency conversion costs, and remittance fees to understand the total cost of investing internationally.
Disclaimer: Shriram Financial Services Private Limited's role is that of a referrer, wherein Shriram Financial Services would introduce clients to the international broker via a link. Clients would be sharing their details with India INX Global Access IFSC Limited, International Broker partners, and the referrer. Once clients have been referred, they are solely responsible for all orders they place and understand that such orders are unsolicited and based on their own investment decisions. Shriram Financial Services Private Limited or any of its employees, agents, principals or representatives are not officers, directors, employees or representatives of India INX Global Access. All processes shall be executed by international brokers directly with the client, and Shriram Financial Services Private Limited / India INX Global Access IFSC Limited shall not incur any liability, financial or otherwise.
Global Mutual Funds & ETFs
Global mutual funds and ETFs offer one of the simplest ways for Indian investors to access international markets. Choose global investments based on the fund structure, region, or sector that best suits your investment goals. Compare options using important cost factors such as expense ratios and exit loads before investing.
By Fund Structure: Feeder Funds & Fund of Funds (FoF)
Both provide access to international markets through investments made in Indian rupees, with no need for an overseas account.
Feeder Funds
A Feeder Fund invests in a single overseas fund, giving you targeted access to that international strategy in INR.
Fund of Funds (FoF)
An FoF invests in multiple funds, helping diversify your global portfolio across strategies through one investment.
By Region: US, Europe & Global Markets
Regional funds focus on specific geographies, allowing investors to gain targeted exposure to markets such as the United States, Europe, or other international regions.
By Sector: Technology, Energy & Healthcare
Sector-focused global funds invest in industries driving long-term growth, including technology, clean energy, healthcare, and innovation-led businesses worldwide.
Technology
Innovation-led businesses and platforms driving long-term global growth.
Energy
Clean energy and the broader energy transition across international markets.
Healthcare
Global healthcare, biotech and medical technology leaders.
Note: When comparing global mutual funds and ETFs, review key cost factors such as expense ratios and exit loads. Lower costs can help improve long-term investment returns.
How to Invest in US Stocks from India
Investing in US stocks from India is a simple, fully digital process. Complete your KYC, fund your account, and start investing in global companies in just a few steps.
Online Process: KYC & Account Opening
Enter Basic Details
Enter name, contact details and create your account.
Verify via Email OTP
Verify your account using the OTP sent by email.
Complete KYC
Complete KYC with PAN & Aadhaar or DigiLocker.
Background & Tax
Submit background, tax and FATCA/CRS details.
Agreement & Disclaimer
Accept terms to generate your application number.
Account Opens
Account opens in 24–48 hrs. Link and add funds.
Start Investing
Invest in US stocks, ETFs and fractional shares.
Fund Transfer: LRS & FEMA Guidelines
Indian residents can invest in overseas markets through the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), which permits eligible foreign investments subject to applicable RBI and FEMA regulations. Funds can be transferred directly from your Indian bank account without a foreign bank account.
Global mutual funds and fund-of-funds (FoF) in INR do not require overseas remittances, making them a convenient option for first-time global investors.
Documents Required
Keep the following documents ready.
Documents Checklist
PAN Card
Aadhaar Card
Bank Account Details
Address Proof (if required)
W-8BEN Form (completed during account setup)
Taxation of Global Investments
Indian residents are required to pay tax on their global investment income. However, the India–US Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) helps prevent double taxation by allowing eligible tax credits on income taxed in both countries.
US Withholding Tax on Dividends
Dividends received from US stocks are subject to withholding tax in the United States. By submitting the W-8BEN form, eligible Indian investors can benefit from the applicable India–US treaty provisions.
Tax on Capital Gains in India
Capital gains from global investments are taxable in India based on the applicable holding period and prevailing tax regulations. Dividend income is also taxable as per the investor's applicable income tax slab.
DTAA Benefits for Indian Investors
The India–US DTAA allows investors to claim credit for taxes paid in the US against their Indian tax liability, helping avoid double taxation on the same income.
Tax Reporting & Compliance
Investors holding overseas assets may be required to disclose foreign investments and income while filing their Income Tax Returns (ITR). Proper reporting and compliance are essential for global investments.
Note: Tax laws are subject to change. Please consult a qualified tax advisor for the latest regulations and guidance applicable to your individual circumstances.
Risks in Global Investing
Global investing can help diversify your portfolio and access international opportunities, but like all investments, it comes with certain risks. Understanding these risks can help you make informed investment decisions and build a balanced portfolio.
Disclaimer: All investments are subject to market risks. Investors should carefully evaluate their financial goals, risk appetite, and investment horizon before investing.
Currency Risk (INR vs USD)
Global investments are influenced by currency movements. Changes in exchange rates between the Indian Rupee (INR) and foreign currencies such as the US Dollar (USD) can impact your overall investment returns.
Market Risk
International markets can experience periods of volatility due to economic conditions, interest rate changes, geopolitical events, and market sentiment. Short-term fluctuations are common, making a long-term investment approach important.
Regulatory Risk
Global investments are subject to applicable regulations, including FEMA, RBI, and LRS guidelines. Changes in tax policies, remittance limits, or regulatory frameworks may affect overseas investing.
Liquidity Risk
While many global stocks and ETFs are highly liquid, certain alternative investments and niche asset classes may have limited liquidity or lock-in periods, making it difficult to exit investments quickly.
Managing Global Investment Risks
Diversification across geographies, sectors, and asset classes, combined with a long-term investment horizon, can help manage risk and improve portfolio resilience.
Regulatory Guide for Indians (2026)
Global investing is legal for Indian residents when carried out through approved channels and in compliance with applicable RBI, FEMA, and SEBI regulations. Investing through regulated platforms helps ensure a secure and compliant investment experience.
LRS Limit for Overseas Investments
Under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS), eligible resident individuals can remit up to USD 250,000 per financial year for permitted overseas investments, including international stocks, ETFs, and other global assets.
FEMA Compliance for Global Investing
Overseas investments are governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). Investors should use authorised banking channels, comply with applicable remittance guidelines, and invest only through approved investment routes.
SEBI & RBI Regulations
The RBI oversees foreign remittances and overseas investment regulations, while SEBI regulates investment intermediaries, mutual funds, and capital markets. Choosing regulated platforms helps ensure transparency, investor protection, and compliance.
Note: Regulations may change over time. Investors should refer to the latest RBI, FEMA, and SEBI guidelines before investing globally.
Start Global Investing Today
Pick the path that fits where you are.
Want control and stock-picking?
Open a US investing account and buy your first share or ETF - fractional means you can start small.
Prefer simplicity in rupees?
Browse global mutual funds and start an SIP - no overseas account, no TCS.
Want a checklist first?
Work through our Global Investing checklist covering KYC, LRS, documents, costs and tax before you begin.
Open Your Free Demat Account In Minutes
Open your account and access US stocks, ETFs and fractional shares - fully digital, RBI & FEMA compliant.
Got Questions?
View All FAQsYes. Indian residents can legally invest in US stocks, ETFs, and other global assets under the RBI's Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) through authorised investment platforms.
You can invest through US stocks, ETFs, global mutual funds, international funds, INR bonds, and alternative investments using regulated investment platforms.
There is no fixed minimum. With fractional investing, you can start with a small amount, while global mutual funds are available from a few hundred rupees.
No. You can invest using your existing Indian bank account. Funds are transferred under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS).
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