How Malaysians Can Easily Buy US Stocks
You're in Malaysia, and Wall Street looks like it's on the other side of the earth. Still, the urge to invest in Apple, Tesla, or some trending stock on TikTok is real. Sound familiar? Good news: these days, getting US equities from Malaysia is easier than getting a cup of Teh Tarik.
Start by picking a broker—your gateway to US stocks. How to build a stock portfolio
Here's the catch: local banks let you trade around the world, but you'll have to pay more and do more paperwork. Platforms like eToro, Tiger, and IBKR are user-friendly and globally accessible. They offer slick apps and low barriers to entry. Feel free to compare their fees, features, and stock selections. A little browsing never hurt anyone.
Opening an account is simple, but be ready with your passport, address proof, and possibly tax info. You will fill out forms online and send in your papers. Pro tip: make sure your scanned ID is clear and in color—no fuzzy photos please.
Depositing funds into your account sets you up to trade. Malaysian banks, e-wallets, or even credit cards are common ways to fund your account. Be careful with exchange rates and bank transfer fees. Sometimes the hidden costs come in like a mouse in a church.
Picking stocks? Start with research. Reddit threads, YouTube videos, and blogs can be goldmines. Don't just bet on tickers that seem cool. Unless you’re a thrill-seeker, don’t throw everything into one stock.
Fun fact: Malaysians don’t pay US capital gains tax, but dividends are a different issue. You’re usually taxed 30% on dividends unless you file the W-8BEN, which slashes it to 15%. It may sound bureaucratic, but it’s worth it for a bigger bite of your dividend.
Final tip: start small and steady. Try it out. Fractional shares let you invest without paying full price—even less than your lunch. Don’t skip on security: turn on 2FA. Repeat after me: safety first, then transactions.
To wrap it up, buying US shares from Malaysia is as easy as online pizza—learn it once, enjoy it forever. Happy investing!