How to Buy US Stocks: A Beginner’s Guide
Selfwealth
Key takeaways
The US accounts for around 60% of global equity market value, making it a cornerstone for investors seeking international diversification and exposure to industries under-represented on the ASX.
US inflation has eased to 2.7% year-on-year, while the Federal Reserve has kept rates steady at 4.00%–4.25%, supporting a stable environment for equities.
US shares remain supported by easing inflation and resilient earnings, particularly across technology and consumer-focused sectors.
Investors can trade both ASX and US shares through one Selfwealth account, with flat US $9.50 brokerage and low FX (60 bps) and simple, transparent access to the NYSE and Nasdaq.
Why consider investing in US shares
The Australian share market includes many well-established companies, but it is heavily weighted toward financial and resource sectors. This can make it harder for investors to gain exposure to other industries driving long-term growth and innovation.
Investing in US shares opens access to a far broader mix of industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods – as well as some of the most recognisable and innovative global brands. For Australian investors, this can:
Broaden diversification beyond local economic cycles.
Provide exposure to global companies with consistent long-term earnings.
Help balance risk by spreading investments across multiple markets and sectors.
Diversification won’t remove risk, but it can help smooth out performance over time by reducing reliance on any one market or industry.
Understanding the current backdrop
The US economy has entered a steadier phase in 2025. Inflation has eased and interest rates have remained stable following the Federal Reserve’s September meeting, helping support confidence in equity markets. Corporate earnings have also proven resilient, supported by ongoing strength technology and consumer-focused sectors.
For Australian investors, these conditions provide a steady environment for exploring international opportunities. The US remains a leader in areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing – industries that have shaped recent market performance and continue to influence long-term growth trends.
How to start investing in US shares
Choose a platform that provides direct access
Australians can invest in US-listed companies and ETFs through regulated online brokers that connect directly to major US exchanges, such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq.
With Selfwealth, investors can buy and manage both ASX and US shares within the same trading account. This allows investors to view and manage total holdings on one platform, trade in USD, and compare performance across markets.
Understand the costs
Every broker structures fees differently, so it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. Important costs to look for include:
Brokerage fees: Some brokers charge a flat fee per trade, while others take a percentage of the trade value.
FX conversion fees: Apply when transferring between AUD and USD.
Other charges: Check for account or inactivity fees that may apply.
At Selfwealth, our flat-fee pricing model makes it simple to plan and compare costs – especially for larger trades.
Know when and how trading works
The US market trades overnight in Australian time, generally 11:30pm to 6:00am AET.
Some platforms also provide extended trading sessions, though prices and liquidity can differ outside standard hours.
All trades in US shares settle in USD, which means that changes in the AUD/USD exchange rate can influence the overall value of holdings. A stronger Australian dollar can reduce the value of US investments when converted to AUD, while a weaker dollar can lift it.
Tracking currency trends helps investors understand fluctuations in portfolio value, especially when comparing performance over time.
Use available tools to make informed decisions
Confidence comes from having access to the right information. With Selfwealth, investors have access to company fundamentals, performance charts, and analyst insights to help evaluate opportunities – and with Selfwealth Premium, investors also have access to live market data.
Final thoughts
The US market remains one of the most dynamic investment destinations – offering scale, diversity, and access to companies shaping the modern economy.
For Australians, it can be a valuable way to complement local holdings and build a portfolio with broader reach.
By understanding how to access the market, what costs to consider, and how trading works, beginner investors can confidently start exploring opportunities in the US.
With Selfwealth, investors can trade US shares and ETFs alongside their ASX portfolio, all from one account. Low FX conversion, flat-fee brokerage, and direct market access make it a simple and cost-effective way to invest in the US market.
Important disclaimer: SelfWealth Pty Ltd ABN 52 154 324 428 (“Selfwealth”) (AFSL 421789). The information contained on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your personal situation. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice from a financial adviser and/or accountant. Taxation, legal and other matters referred to on this website are of a general nature only and should not be relied upon in place of appropriate professional advice. You should obtain the relevant Product Disclosure Statement for any product mentioned and consider its contents before making any decision.
