What you want to achieve
Investing in US and global shares from the UK
Some of the world’s largest and fastest-growing companies are listed outside the UK. Accessing them is easy; doing it cost-effectively and with sensible risk takes more thought.
The challenges
- FX charges on every trade and dividend.
- Heavy concentration in a few large US technology companies.
- Currency moves affecting returns.
- Paperwork such as US tax forms for dividends.
How a disciplined process helps
Check FX and dealing costs
Platforms differ widely in what they charge to convert currency. On frequent trades or large sums, this can matter more than the headline platform fee.
Our Interactive Investor vs Interactive Brokers article shows the difference.
Watch concentration
Global and US indices are increasingly dominated by a few very large companies. Know how much of your portfolio depends on them.
Our article on S&P 500 concentration explores this.
Diversify beyond the US
Economies and markets change over decades. A global spread across regions and sectors avoids betting everything on one country continuing to lead.
Our article on the largest economies by 2075 looks at the long view.
Where to start
- Interactive Investor vs Interactive BrokersWhat FX fees really cost you on US shares.
- S&P 500 concentrationShould the Magnificent Seven worry you?
- The largest economies by 2075A long-term forecast and what it means for global investors.
- Platform and SIPP articlesComparisons of the main UK platforms.
Questions people ask
Can I hold US shares in an ISA or SIPP?
Yes, most UK platforms allow US shares in ISAs and SIPPs, usually after completing a W-8BEN form.
Should I hedge currency?
Some investors use currency-hedged funds; others accept currency movements as part of global diversification. Each has trade-offs.
Is the US market too expensive?
Valuations change over time. Rather than predicting, use a process for diversification and position sizing.
Important: this page is education and information only. It is not financial advice or a personal recommendation, and it does not take your circumstances into account. The value of investments and pensions can fall as well as rise, and you may get back less than you put in. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. If you are unsure what is right for you, speak to a regulated financial adviser.