How to buy stocks in Italy

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How to buy stocks in Italy:

  • 1

    You must first research and contrast brokers.

  • 2

    Sign up with an online broker.

  • 3

    To start buying stocks, you must first fund your live trading account.

  • 4

    Find and select the shares you want to buy.

  • 5

    Place a share purchase order after determining how many shares you want to buy.

While the Italian stock market struggles to recover from the economy's poor showing, which has suffered from numerous political and economic setbacks, you can profit strategically by investing in stocks around the world.

So, if you do not know how to buy and sell stocks in Italy, this article is for you. TU experts will show potential investors how to buy stocks online in Italy.

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How to buy stocks online in a few easy steps

1. Choose an online stock broker

To begin investing in stocks, you need to select an online stock broker. Look for a broker that offers a user-friendly interface, low fees, good customer service, and a wide range of investment options. It is essential to ensure that the broker is regulated and operates within your country's jurisdiction.

For beginners, brokerages with extra benefits such as social trading can be invaluable as they offer opportunities to learn from experienced traders, as well as study best strategies. Additionally, access to comprehensive educational resources, fractional shares trading, and a diverse range of ETF investment options can further empower beginners in making well-informed and diversified investment decisions.

2. Sign up for an account

Once you have chosen a suitable broker, you'll need to sign up for an account.

The registration process typically involves providing your personal information, which may include:

  • Your full name;

  • Address and contact details;

  • Date of birth;

  • Social Security number (or equivalent);

  • Proof of identification (such as a driver's license or passport);

  • Employment and material status information is optional.

Keep in mind that some brokers might require mandatory verification of your identity and documents.

3. Make your first deposit

To pay for the stocks you want to purchase, you'll need to deposit funds into your brokerage account. Most brokerages offer various funding options, such as bank transfers, credit/debit cards, or wire transfers.

Bank Transfers: Usually free or low-cost, but may take a few days to clear.

Credit/Debit Cards: Instant, but may involve additional fees.

Wire Transfers: Instant, but may involve additional fees.

How much money should I deposit for the first time? TU experts recommend starting with a small amount to understand the stock market and gain practical experience.

4. Choose the stocks you want to buy

With your account funded, it's time to choose the stocks you want to buy. You can use your brokerage's research tools or other financial websites to gather information about potential investments. Take into consideration factors like your budget, risk tolerance, and long-term investment goals when making your decisions.

If you are inclined towards long-term investing, it is essential to focus on conservative trading strategies, prioritize portfolio diversification, and thoroughly understand the businesses of the companies you invest in. On the other hand, if you prefer active trading, consider learning technical analysis or other techniques to make informed decisions and navigate the dynamic nature of the stock market effectively.

5. Place your orders to buy stocks

There are different types of orders you should understand:

Market order executes the buy order at the current market price. It prioritizes execution speed over price, ensuring immediate execution.

Market order use case: Investors who want to enter or exit a position quickly, especially in highly liquid stocks.

Limit order sets a specific price at which the investor is willing to buy or sell a stock. It allows investors to control the price at which the trade will execute, offering price protection.

Limit order use case: Traders who want to buy or sell at a specific price and are willing to wait for the market to reach that price.

Stop order (stop-loss order) executes the order when the stock reaches a specified price. Stop orders are used to limit potential losses by triggering a sale if the stock's price moves unfavorably.

Stop order use case: Traders who want to protect their investments from significant price declines.

6. Monitor your investments

The stock market can be volatile, and the value of your holdings may fluctuate. Stay informed about the companies you've invested in and keep an eye on market trends. Remember that investing is a long-term endeavor, and it's essential to review and adjust your portfolio periodically based on your financial goals and risk tolerance.

By following these steps and staying informed, you can start your journey into the world of online stock investing. Remember that investing involves risks, and it's crucial to do thorough research and seek professional advice if needed. Happy investing!

How do I sell my stocks in Italy?

Online stock brokers are a more convenient choice for buying and selling stocks in Italy since some do not charge the higher commission fees of full-service brokers. An investor must be aware of which shares to buy if they hope to profit from stock investing.

Investors can choose to sell their holdings when stock prices rise, even though they can make more profits by holding them for 10 to 30 years. The amount of money you make from the investment depends on when and how you sell the stocks.

Here are the steps for selling stocks online in Italy:

  • The first step is to determine the value of your shares, which you can find by looking up the most recent market price.

  • Always use licensed stock brokers for all of your stock purchases and sales. So before you sign up with these brokers, check to see if a regional, global, or international financial regulator is in charge of the broker. Using an online stock broker makes purchasing and selling shares simpler.

  • Next, log into your regulated stock broker account.

  • Ensure you have some funds in your account to cater for the expenses when you put up your shares for sale. If your account balance is zero, deposit money into your brokerage account to guarantee you have enough money to sell stocks.

  • Select Sell Shares from the menu under Stockbroker Services to begin the transaction. If you want to register your shares on the platform, follow the instructions. Include all pertinent information, including the number of shares and their respective prices.

  • From your portfolio, pick the specific stock you want to sell. Set the selling parameters and indicate how many shares you wish to sell. Indicate the order's type (market or limit) and any extra details, like the desired selling price (for limit orders).

  • Review your selling order to make sure all the information is correct, then confirm and submit it. Follow up on your order to make sure it is being executed. The sale's earnings will be deposited into your brokerage account once it is complete.

  • Follow the steps outlined by the brokerage platform for withdrawals if you want to take money out of your account.

Note:

Stock alert apps are crucial tools brokers provide for traders to inform them about recent happenings in the stock market. So, it is a good practice to install and activate stock alert apps. You will be alerted to any price fluctuations, technical issues, monetary developments, and other crucial stock market facts.

Best stock brokers in Italy

1
9.4/10
Go to broker
eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs.
Minimum deposit:
From $100
2
9.2/10
Go to broker
Your capital is at risk.
Via eOption's secure website.
Minimum deposit:
$1

What are the benefits of buying stocks in Italy?

1. Strong economy

Stock investors may benefit from Italy's robust economy, which has grown from being one of Europe's weakest after World War II to one of the strongest. The third-largest national economy in the European Union has a strong economy that enables businesses to expand, which is good for shareholders. It is a social market economy that is highly developed. Again, the Italian government is steadfast in its commitment to advancing its vital domestic industries.

2. Global export leader

Italy has solidified its position as a world leader in the export of machinery, demonstrating its strength in the manufacturing industry. Italy is the eighth-largest exporter in the world and a founding member of the European Union, the Eurozone, the OECD, the G7, and the G20. They export a wide range of goods, including leather, textiles, natural gas, and mineral fuels.

3. Stable political environment

Though the political environment in Italy may not have always been the best, efforts to stabilize it are progressing with increasing speed. As a result, stock investors can be sure that their investments will be profitable and not at risk due to political unrest.

The Italian government and other political elites strive to uphold solid democratic political institutions and political stability and develop policies with an emphasis on resolving crises.

4. Diversification

Italian stocks offer potentially different market dynamics, industry trends, and currency exposure, which can help you diversify your exposure beyond US stocks. Interestingly, some companies offer advantageous diversification, just like on other global stock exchanges. Investors have options, including large financial institutions like Unicredit, insurers like Generali, and high-end clothing companies like Moncler and Salvatore Ferragamo.

5. Dividends and investor-friendly policies

Investors interested in making an income are frequently drawn to Italian companies because of their strong dividend cultures. They support investors and offer them transparency and protection with a developed regulatory environment for financial markets and strong shareholder rights.

Is it safe to buy stocks online?

Yes, in general, stock investing is safe, but you should learn some basic safe investing rules that will help protect your money.

Research and select a well-established, reputable online brokerage platform with a track record of security and customer satisfaction.

Buy stocks using a secure internet connection, preferably your private home network, to reduce the risk of unauthorized access or data interception.

Create strong and unique passwords for your brokerage account, incorporating a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.

Enable 2FA whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your mobile device, before accessing your account.

When funding your brokerage account or making transactions, use secure payment methods such as bank transfers or credit cards. Avoid sharing credit card details directly with third parties.

Be cautious about sharing unnecessary personal information online, especially on social media platforms, to minimize the risk of identity theft or fraud.

Keep a close eye on your brokerage account's activity. Regularly review statements and transaction history for any unauthorized or suspicious transactions.

Educate yourself about common stock frauds and phishing attempts related to stock trading.

Can Italians trade stocks with international brokers?

Yes, residents of Italy can generally trade stocks with international brokers. However, there are some crucial regulations and considerations to be aware of when doing so, including rules, tax repercussions, trading expenses, etc.

Again, investors should work with reputable businesses, such as reputable online brokers or trading platforms such as eToro and RoboForex. These brokers have a good history and integrate leading trading platforms in Italy and beyond. A broker like eToro can help you trade CFDs on the stocks of the biggest corporations in Switzerland, Italy, and the USA.

What is the minimum stock investment in Italy?

Depending on the market's current exchange rate, some stockbrokers require a minimum stock investment of $10 to $500. You can convert this using the current exchange rate in Italy to know the exact amount based on the local currency. Remember, the minimum amount required to purchase Italian stocks varies depending on the broker and the company stocks you are purchasing.

When buying stocks online from stockbrokers that offer fractional share trading features, you can invest small sums of money, such as $5 or $10.

eToro is one of the best stock brokers in Italy, offering fractional share trading features. Users only need to invest $10 to purchase shares on eToro. Additionally, buying Italian shares on this platform is simple; it is the best stockbroker for novice stock traders.

Can I trade fractional shares?

Yes, you can trade fractional shares. However, given that it is not a common feature you find on any stock trading platforms, these must be on brokerage platforms that offer it.

Even if you do not have enough money to buy a full share, fractional shares let you own a portion of a stock or ETF. More than 7,000 US stocks and ETFs are offered in fractional shares by the majority of the best stockbrokers in Italy. You can invest as little as $1 with fractional shares, which are offered by some brokers.

For instance, trading apps that support fractional share trading let you buy just a tiny portion of a $100 stock, which would otherwise cost a lot more, for as little as $1 to $10. This means that if a stock costs $1,000 and you invest $10, you now own $100 of that stock. At eToro, fractional shares are available for purchase for a minimum investment of $10

How to buy US stocks in Italy?

Yes. It is possible to purchase US stocks in Italy, but you must first open a brokerage account with the best stockbrokers in Italy to access the US market. Additionally, apps like eToro, which provide zero-commission trading on US stocks, can be used.

To buy US stocks in Italy, you must select an international broker (compare each brokerage's transaction costs, account maintenance costs, and other costs). Verify that the base currency is configured correctly after completing the account verification process. Following the broker's approval of your account, you can begin purchasing shares by putting money down using your preferred payment method.

Reputable stockbrokers offer a demo account that enables traders to test the broker's stock trading services. So, ensure you practice stock trading on this account, especially if it is your first time.

Although the US stock market is more liquid and volatile than the European stock market, investors should consider their level of risk tolerance before investing in US stocks. When purchasing US stocks, investors should be aware that they will likely be required to pay both US and European taxes.

Buying a broad market index is the most straightforward way to invest in the Italian stock market. ETFs can be used to accomplish this at a low cost. ETFs enable European investors to purchase shares in US companies without having direct exposure to the US stock market.

Are shares taxed in Italy?

Yes. Shares are subject to taxation in Italy. In Italy, any capital gain from the sale of an investor's stock is subject to taxation. The standard capital gains tax rate is 26% if you own shares for less than seven years. The capital gains tax may be reduced to 12.5% if you hold onto your shares for an extended period beyond seven years. The Italian government deducts 26% of any dividends you receive from domestic or foreign corporations.

Depending on the type of shareholding, capital gains on shares are taxed using the same guidelines as dividends. There is an applicable specific participation exemption regime (PEX). Under this system, Italian businesses that sell their stockholdings are 95% exempt from IRES on capital gains.

FAQs

Can you trade stocks in Italy?

Yes. The Italian Stock Exchange (Borsa Italiana), which offers a wide selection of Italian and foreign stocks, including those from important industries like finance, energy, manufacturing, and more, allows potential stock traders to trade stocks in Italy.

You can also use online brokerage platforms to trade stocks, like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ. Online stock brokers like eToro and RoboForex are top trading platforms that allow Italian residents to open accounts and trade on global stock exchanges. These brokerages often provide access to a broader range of stocks, including those listed on US, European, Asian, and other global exchanges.

How to buy an ETF in Italy?

You can invest in ETFs like the S&P 500 ETFs on regulated platforms like eToro. These exchanges provide adaptable payment options for Euro deposits at an affordable fee. Before purchasing exchange-traded funds, register for an account with a stock broker online and complete the account verification procedure. Choose "Deposit Funds" from the menu, then "EUR" as your preferred currency and payment method, before sending money from your European bank account. Find the SPDR S&P 500 ETF using the search bar, then buy some.

Can I invest in the S&P 500 from Italy?

Yes. Using a brokerage that accepts international investors, including those who call Italy home, you can trade US securities from Italy, including ETFs or index funds that track the S&P 500. The S&P 500 index gauges performance and represents the 500 biggest publicly traded American businesses.

How do I buy European stocks?

To buy European stocks, choose an Italian or a global brokerage with access to European stock exchanges.

Team that worked on the article

Peter Emmanuel Chijioke
Contributor

Peter Emmanuel Chijioke is a professional personal finance, Forex, crypto, blockchain, NFT, and Web3 writer and a contributor to the Traders Union website. As a computer science graduate with a robust background in programming, machine learning, and blockchain technology, he possesses a comprehensive understanding of software, technologies, cryptocurrency, and Forex trading.

Having skills in blockchain technology and over 7 years of experience in crafting technical articles on trading, software, and personal finance, he brings a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise to the table. His skill set encompasses a diverse range of personal finance technologies and industries, making him a valuable asset to any team or project focused on innovative solutions, personal finance, and investing technologies.

Rinat Gismatullin
Author and business expert

Rinat Gismatullin is an entrepreneur and a business expert with 9 years of experience in trading. He focuses on long-term investing, but also uses intraday trading. He is a private consultant on investing in digital assets and personal finance. Rinat holds two degrees in Economy and Linguistics.

Mirjan Hipolito
Cryptocurrency and stock expert

Mirjan Hipolito is a journalist and news editor at Traders Union. She is an expert crypto writer with five years of experience in the financial markets. Her specialties are daily market news, price predictions, and Initial Coin Offerings (ICO).