The recent news of India’s tech sector surpassing $250 billion in revenue has many investors wondering whether they should be looking beyond their domestic market.
The answer, for many, is a resounding yes. Global investing allows you to diversify your portfolio, tap into exciting growth opportunities, and potentially hedge against any wobbles in the UK economy.
But where should you begin? We’ll explore the first steps below.
Understand the Why
Global investing is all about diversification. Many investors spread their investments across asset classes but neglect to diversify across geographic regions, exposing their portfolios to undue risk.
By investing in assets in a variety of countries, you can build a more robust portfolio. Even if one market experiences a downturn, others might be thriving. So, global investing enables you to seize growth opportunities in foreign markets while mitigating your overall losses.
Know Your Risk Tolerance
Global markets offer a thrilling smorgasbord of investment options, but with great reward comes inherent risk. Unlike your trusty high-street building society, currency fluctuations, political instability, and unfamiliar regulations can all play a more prominent role on the world stage. So, knowing your risk tolerance is crucial when determining your global investing strategy.
For the risk-averse, established markets like the US or Japan might be a good starting point, as they boast long histories of stability and growth. As your comfort level increases, you can explore emerging markets, which offer potentially higher returns but also carry greater risk. The key is finding the sweet spot between risk and reward that aligns with your financial goals and capacity for risk.
Choose a Broker
Investment brokers provide the platform and tools you need to buy and sell international investments. With a plethora of online brokers vying for your business, choosing the right one is vital.
Ensure you choose a broker that offers access to international markets, especially any that you’ve already decided you want to trade in. It’s best to choose a platform with easy-to-use features like Tradu, whether you’re a seasoned trader or brand new to the markets.
Transaction fees and account charges can eat into your returns, so compare fees across different brokers to find the most cost-effective option. Don’t be afraid to shop around, and remember to read reviews, compare features, and open demo accounts to test-drive the platform before committing.
Select Investments
When it comes to selecting your investments, there are two main options: exchange-traded funds and mutual funds.
- Exchange-traded funds are basket-like investments that track a specific market index or sector, offering instant diversification, low fees, and ease of use.
- Mutual funds are professionally managed funds that invest pooled money from investors in a variety of international stocks or bonds. They offer expert selection and convenience but often come with higher fees compared to ETFs.
Remember, diversification is key. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, even within the global market. Consider a mix of asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and real estate investment trusts (REITs), to mitigate risk effectively.
Play the Long Game
Global markets, like any investment, can be volatile. Don’t get spooked by short-term fluctuations in the news. Remember, you’re playing the long game. History shows that global markets tend to grow over time, rewarding patient investors who stay the course. Develop a disciplined investment strategy, regularly rebalance your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation and avoid making rash, fear-based decisions.
Building Resilience Through Global Investing
Global investing empowers you to transcend domestic limitations and unlock growth opportunities beyond your borders. This diversification strategy can lead to less risk and steadier growth, helping you achieve your long-term financial goals.
Yet while global investing can significantly enhance your portfolio’s resilience, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t eliminate risk entirely. Seek advice from financial professionals who can tailor your strategy to your personal situation and help you weather any financial storms that may arise in the future.
