Sarhang Shafiq, Operations at Stake
Where the world trades
Did you know there is more money moving through the US that any other market in the world? On any given day, the amount of money traded in Apple stock is more than the entire Aussie market.
By volume and market size, the US markets remains the world’s largest market, making up close to 40% of the stock market capitalisation of global exchanges. It’s also where the largest and most dynamic companies are listed – think of brands such as Apple, Nike, Disney, Starbucks, Amazon and Google. It’s likely that the next Apple and Microsoft are also listed there, with new breeds of tech firms such as Uber, Beyond Meat and Alibaba are also recently listing in the US.
Who trades in US stock markets?
The US is home to finance moguls from all over the world. One of the most well-known investors is Warren Buffett with a net worth of US$82 billion. Buffett is an avid investor and believer in the US markets.
However, it’s not only the big end of town that invest in the US market. According to a recent Gallup Poll, 52% of all American adults have money invested in the US stock market. Due to the size of the opportunity and introduction of new ways to access the market, it’s becoming easier for those outside the US to get involved as well.
How do you get involved?
Getting involved in the US markets requires a broker that can place orders on your behalf. It’s no different to how you would invest locally.
However, historically, for most Australians (and generally anyone outside the US) it’s been very difficult to access the US stock market – there was lots of paper forms, high costs and lots of complications. However, times have changed and with the advent of technology and niche platforms focusing on the world’s biggest market it’s now simpler and more affordable than ever.
Making your first investment in the US stock market
So, you’ve made the decision to trade in the big markets. That’s the first step. However, like all brokerage accounts, getting set up is one thing, making investments is another.
The key is to remember that investing is investing – in other words, it’s the same no matter where you are. The world’s largest investment funds invest in different markets all the time, so they can capture the opportunities as they present themselves.
Tips for investing in the US stock market
Here are some tips that you can consider when trading in the US market. But, bear in mind that you should do your own research and make investing decisions based on your own personal circumstances.
1.) Start small – Always make sure you manage your risks.
2.) Understand USD – When investing in the US, you are trading in US dollars. Understand how that works for you.
3.) Know your risk – Determine your own risk factors and where possible it may be good to set a limit order for buying or selling shares.
4.) Knowledge is king – Although investing is generally universal, there are nuances that you should try to understand. For example, times that the market is open, trading rules, tax implications. Reading and speaking to others is a great way to get up to speed.
5.) Seek advice – If you are unsure, always seek the advice of your professional advisers
About Sarhang Shafiq
Shaq is an entrepreneurial whizz with a flair for success. Since founding his own startup at the age of 19, he has fallen down, stood up and time and time again been the last man standing. He has now joined the team at Stake to bring his deep operational expertise and generate great outcomes for Stake’s customers.
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