Unlocking Global Opportunities: International Investing at a glance

International investing means buying global investments, such as shares, funds, and ETFs (exchange-traded funds). It allows you to expand your portfolio beyond the borders of your home country and tap into foreign markets.

 
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What’s in it for you?

There are several key benefits to expanding your portfolio beyond borders by investing internationally. Such as:

  • International investing. Tap into a wider range of market performance with international investing. It also spreads investment risk, reducing potential losses by balancing market changes across different countries.
  • Capitalising on global expertise. Different countries often excel in different industries and sectors. Investing internationally allows you to take advantage of the strengths of these different markets.
  • New areas of opportunity. It gives you investment opportunities in areas that don’t exist when investing in the UK, such as investing in Emerging Markets.

What do you need to consider before investing internationally?

While the principal stays the same, there are some different risks involved. Sometimes, the risks may be greater. For example:

Currency

Any potential profit or loss from your trade in foreign markets may be affected by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

Economy

The general economic outlook and market conditions may differ considerably between the UK and foreign markets causing them to be less – or more – favourable.

Taxation

Tax laws vary in different countries, so you’ll need to check our website to see if any additional tax charges apply.

How can you trade internationally with us?

Browse our Research Centre to find out more here.

  • You can trade in international shares commission free on six global stock markets (FX rates of 1.25% still apply).
  • Or you can choose global funds or ETFs from our range at £9.50 per trade (no FX rate applies).

The value of investments, and income from them, can fall as well as rise and you may get back less than you invest. If you’re unsure about investing, seek independent financial advice. There may be a charge for that advice.

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Do your research

Find your next investment and catch up with market news or investment ideas.

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International trading

Take advantage of multiple international markets, with no trading commission.

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Understanding risk

Understand what investment risk is and how to manage it for your investments.

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Your money is protected

Investments with Bank of Scotland Share Dealing are protected up to a total of £85,000 by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. This limit is applied to the aggregated total of any stock or cash held across the following brands which we administer.

This is in addition to any other savings deposits you may hold across Lloyds Banking Group.

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Important legal information

Bank of Scotland Share Dealing Service is operated by Halifax Share Dealing Limited. Registered in England and Wales no. 3195646. Registered Office: Trinity Road, Halifax, West Yorkshire, HX1 2RG. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under registration number 183332. A Member of the London Stock Exchange and an HM Revenue & Customs Approved ISA Manager.