How To Buy US Stocks In Bangladesh

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Here’s how you can buy US stocks in Bangladesh:

Step 1. Choose a reliable international broker that supports US stock trading.
Step 2. Register and verify your trading account.
Step 3. Complete the W-8BEN Form.
Step 4. Fund your account.
Step 5. Research and select stocks.
Step 6. Place your first trade.
Step 7. Monitor and manage your portfolio.

Bangladesh’s stock market has its limitations — limited growth stocks, fewer global opportunities, and unpredictable local trends. But what if you could own shares in Apple, Microsoft, or Amazon directly from Bangladesh?

The process isn’t as simple as opening a local brokerage account. You’ll need the right broker, a USD funding method, and tax compliance knowledge to make it work. This guide breaks it down, step by step, making it easier for Bangladeshi investors to invest smartly and legally.

Steps to invest in US stocks from Bangladesh

Buying US stocks from Bangladesh is easier than ever, thanks to international brokers. Here’s a simple guide to getting started:

Pick an international broker

Since you can’t buy US stocks directly from a Bangladeshi broker, you’ll need an international platform that accepts Bangladeshi investors. Compare fees, available stocks, and ease of use before signing up. We have listed some of the top options below for making the choice easier for you:

Best brokers for investing in US stocks from Bangladesh
	Account min.	Withdrawal fee	max. regulation level	Open an account
eToro		$5	Tier-1	Open an account Your capital is at risk.
CapTrader	2,000	Varies	Tier-1	Open an account Your capital is at risk.
UTEX	10	USDT (TRON) - 4 USDT USDT (Ethereum) - 10 USDT		Open an account Your capital is at risk.
Revolut		No charge up to a limit	Tier-1	Study review
Interactive Brokers			Tier-1	Open an account Your capital is at risk.

Sign up and verify your account

Once you’ve chosen a broker, create an account by providing your passport, proof of address, and banking details. Some brokers may ask for video verification.

Submit the W-8BEN form

As a Bangladeshi investor, you need to fill out a W-8BEN form to get a lower tax rate on dividends from US stocks. Without this form, US authorities may deduct 30% tax on dividends, but with it, the rate is 15%. Your broker will guide you through this step.

Add money to your account

To start investing, deposit funds into your brokerage account. You may need an international bank account or use services like Wise, Payoneer, or a foreign currency account. Watch out for currency conversion fees and Bangladesh Bank’s international transfer limits.

Research and choose stocks

Before investing, research companies to see which stocks fit your goals. Look at their financial reports, recent performance, and future growth potential. Use platforms like Yahoo Finance, TradingView, or your broker’s tools to analyze stocks.

Buy your first stock

When you’re ready, log into your trading account and place a buy order. You can either:

Buy at the current price (market order).
Set a specific price and wait for it (limit order).

Review the details before confirming the purchase.

Keep track of your stocks

After buying stocks, check your portfolio regularly. Follow market news, earnings reports, and stock performance. If needed, adjust your investments to match your long-term goals.

Why invest in US stocks?

Investing in US stocks from Bangladesh isn’t just about buying shares—it’s about accessing opportunities beyond local markets. Here’s why it makes sense for Bangladeshi investors.

Access to global leaders

The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) doesn’t give you the chance to invest in some of the most influential companies in the world. By investing in US stocks, you open the door to iconic names like Apple, Amazon, Tesla, and Microsoft — companies shaping the global market. These companies are known for their solid performance, constant innovation, and potential for long-term growth.

Portfolio diversification

Focusing on just one market can leave you vulnerable to avoidable risks. Bangladesh’s stock market is still growing, and it lacks a wide variety of industries. The US market, on the other hand, provides opportunities across tech, healthcare, finance, and consumer sectors, helping spread out your risks and boosting your chances of long-term growth.

Higher market stability

The U.S. stock market has shown an average return of around 10% per year over the long run. While the DSE can be more unpredictable and has lower trading volume, the U.S. market offers steadier growth, stronger regulations, and opportunities to invest in some of the world's top-performing companies.

Currency advantage

Investing in US stocks means holding assets in USD, a global reserve currency. With BDT depreciation over time, US stocks allow you to hedge against currency devaluation while benefiting from international market growth.

Understanding regulatory considerations

Before investing in US stocks from Bangladesh, it’s essential to understand the legal and financial regulations that impact foreign investments.

Bangladesh bank regulations

Foreign investment restrictions. Bangladeshi residents cannot directly transfer funds abroad for stock investments due to Bangladesh Bank (BB) foreign exchange regulations.

Workaround. Many investors use international brokers that accept deposits via local bank accounts, credit/debit cards, or e-wallets. Some also open foreign currency accounts to fund their trades legally.

Tax implications

US dividend tax. The US government applies a 30% tax on dividends, but Bangladeshi investors can reduce this to 15% by submitting a W-8BEN form through their broker.

Capital gains tax in Bangladesh. In Bangladesh, capital gains tax rates vary based on the type of asset and the taxpayer's status. For resident companies and firms, the tax rate on capital gains from the transfer of stocks and shares of public limited companies listed with the stock exchange is 10%. Non-resident shareholders are taxed at 15%, while sponsor shareholders and shareholder directors face a 5% tax rate. Additionally, resident individuals holding at least 10% of the total share capital of the company are taxed at 5%. It's important to note that capital gains tax on the sale of stocks and shares of public limited companies listed with the stock exchange is exempt for resident individual assessees, unless they fall into the specified categories.

Legality of investing in US Stocks

While there’s no direct restriction on investing in US stocks, Bangladesh Bank discourages unauthorized Forex transactions. Using a compliant international broker that handles fund transfers legally is the best option.

Consult a financial or tax advisor to ensure you comply with all regulations.

Key features to consider when choosing a broker

Selecting the right international broker is crucial for a smooth investing experience. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for.

Key features to consider when choosing a broker

Deposit & withdrawal methods

Since Bangladeshi investors cannot directly send funds abroad for stock investments, choosing a broker with accessible funding options is critical. Some brokers allow:

Local bank transfers. Few brokers support direct deposits from Bangladeshi bank accounts due to foreign exchange regulations.

Debit & credit cards. Many brokers accept Visa and Mastercard, making it one of the easiest ways to fund your account.

E-Wallets (Skrill, PayPal, Neteller). Some brokers allow deposits through e-wallets, offering a convenient workaround.

Foreign currency accounts. Some Bangladeshi investors open USD accounts with local banks to deposit funds legally.

Trading fees & costs

Every trade comes with costs, and minimizing fees is essential for maximizing profits. Look for:

Commission-free brokers. Some brokers offer commission-free trading on US stocks, making it easier for investors to start without worrying about extra fees.

Spreads & currency conversion fees. If your broker doesn’t allow direct BDT deposits, you’ll need to convert to USD, which may come with hidden costs.

Withdrawal charges. Some brokers charge up to $5–$50 per withdrawal, so check before choosing. Avoid brokers with inactivity fees or hidden charges that can eat into your returns.

Regulations and security

Your broker should be regulated by top financial authorities to ensure the safety of your funds. Look for platforms licensed by:

SEC (U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission). Regulates US stock brokers.
FINRA (Financial Industry Regulatory Authority). Ensures fair trading practices.
FCA (Financial Conduct Authority, UK). Governs brokers offering services outside the US.

Avoid unregulated offshore brokers as they may have weak security, poor customer support, or hidden risks.

Stock options & investment flexibility

If you’re a beginner, look for brokers with educational resources and demo accounts to practice before investing real money. Different brokers offer different investment opportunities. Consider platforms that provide:

Stocks & ETFs. Most brokers offer access to NYSE and NASDAQ-listed stocks, but not all have ETFs.

Fractional shares. Some brokers allow you to buy a portion of a stock (useful for high-priced stocks like Amazon).

Managing exchange fees, tax treaties, and diversified investing

Buying US stocks from Bangladesh isn’t as complicated as it might first seem. When you start, make sure you’re using a broker that gives you access to the NYSE and NASDAQ, two of the biggest stock exchanges. Many platforms promise no commission on trades, but keep an eye on the currency conversion fees when transferring your Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Some brokers have higher fees for converting BDT to USD, which could chip away at your earnings. It’s worth researching brokers with good exchange rates to make sure you’re getting the most value for your money.

Also, don’t forget about the tax side of things. While you won’t pay US taxes on the profits you make from selling stocks, you will face withholding taxes on any dividends you earn. Bangladesh has a tax treaty with the US that can lower these taxes, but it’s important to get advice from a tax expert to make sure you're following the right rules and maximizing your profits. If you're not sure about picking individual stocks, you can always go for ETFs or index funds that give you exposure to a wide range of US stocks, helping you spread out the risk and still tap into the market’s growth.

Conclusion

Purchasing US stocks from Bangladesh gives you access to international markets, higher yields, and long-term financial growth. With the right broker, proper strategy, and awareness of regulatory and tax implications, Bangladeshi investors can confidently participate in the world’s largest stock market.

With careful planning and disciplined investing, you can grow your wealth and secure financial freedom through the US stock market. Now is the time to take action.

FAQs

Is it legal for Bangladeshis to invest in US stocks?

Yes, but Bangladesh Bank restricts direct foreign investments using local bank transfers. Investors bypass this by using international brokers that accept debit/credit cards, e-wallets, or foreign currency accounts.

What is the minimum amount needed to start?

You don’t need thousands of dollars to start. Many brokers allow fractional shares, letting you invest with as little as $10 or $50.

How does taxation work for Bangladeshi investors?

If you earn dividends from US stocks, the IRS deducts 30% automatically. Submitting a W-8BEN form lowers this to 15% for Bangladeshi investors. Additionally, the US does not tax foreign investors on capital gains, but you may need to report earnings in Bangladesh if regulations change. Always keep records.

What’s the best way for a beginner to invest?

Use Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA) and start with an ETF such as the S&P 500 (SPY, VOO) for immediate diversification; stay away from fad stocks and concentrate on companies with solid earnings and long-term growth.

Team that worked on the article

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.

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Chinmay Soni is a financial analyst with more than 5 years of experience in working with stocks, Forex, derivatives, and other assets. As a founder of a boutique research firm and an active researcher, he covers various industries and fields, providing insights backed by statistical data. He is also an educator in the field of finance and technology.

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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).