For many Filipinos, buying U.S. stocks like Apple, Tesla, or Amazon feels like a dream reserved for Americans. But thanks to online brokerage platforms, that dream is now possible—even if you’re living right here in the Philippines.
However, it’s important to understand the requirements, risks, and regulations before you dive in.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how Filipinos can legally buy real U.S. stocks and ETFs, which brokers allow it, what the signup process looks like, and the important cautionary notes about unregistered foreign brokers.
1. Can Filipinos Buy U.S. Stocks?
Yes — Filipinos can buy real U.S. stocks and ETFs through foreign online brokerage platforms. These platforms are regulated in their own countries (usually the U.S. or Singapore) and allow users to invest in shares listed on U.S. exchanges like NASDAQ and NYSE.
However, it’s crucial to note that none of these platforms are registered with the Philippine SEC, which means they operate outside the local regulatory umbrella.
2. Best Brokers That Allow Filipinos to Buy U.S. Stocks
Below are two of the most reputable and established platforms that still allow Filipinos to open an account and trade U.S. stocks directly.
a. Interactive Brokers (IBKR)
Years in Operation: Since 1978
Headquarters: Connecticut, USA
Regulation: Registered and regulated under U.S. SEC and FINRA
Requirements to Join:
- Valid government-issued ID (passport recommended)
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement)
- Philippine bank account (for deposits via wire transfer)
- Minimum deposit: None (you can start small)
Pros:
- One of the most trusted brokers worldwide with decades of experience
- Access to a wide range of U.S. and international markets
- Low trading fees and professional-level tools
- Strong investor protection under U.S. regulations
Cons:
- Complex interface — may intimidate beginners
- Foreign remittance fees when funding via PH bank
- Not registered with the Philippine SEC (see risk note below)
b. GoTrade
Years in Operation: Since 2019
Headquarters: Singapore
Regulation: Licensed under Labuan Financial Services Authority (Malaysia)
Requirements to Join:
- Philippine government-issued ID
- Philippine address and local bank account
- No minimum deposit required
- App-based signup (usually approved within 1–2 days)
Pros:
- Easy-to-use mobile app designed for beginners
- Allows fractional investing (you can buy $1 worth of U.S. stocks)
- No need for a non-Philippine bank account
- Simple onboarding process
Cons:
- Limited features compared to full-service brokers
- Not registered under the Philippine SEC
- Operates under a foreign jurisdiction (Malaysia), not the U.S.
3. Important Risk: Foreign Brokers Are Not PH-SEC Registered
Even though platforms like IBKR and GoTrade are legitimate and regulated abroad, they are not licensed by the Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission to solicit or sell securities locally.
This means if the SEC decides to restrict their operations in the Philippines, local investors could be affected — even if the brokers themselves remain fully operational overseas.
A recent example is eToro, which was once very popular among Filipino investors. In 2024, the Philippine SEC issued an advisory against eToro for operating without local registration. As a result, eToro stopped accepting new PH-based users and gave existing Filipino clients time to close their positions and withdraw funds safely.
While investors didn’t lose their money, the event served as a warning — your account’s continuity depends on the local regulator’s tolerance of foreign investment platforms.
4. Safe Investing Tips for Filipinos
Before investing in U.S. stocks through any foreign broker, remember these tips:
- Use platforms with strong international regulation (like U.S. SEC, FINRA, or MAS).
- Never deposit large amounts immediately — test small transfers first.
- Keep updated on SEC advisories to know if a broker becomes restricted in the PH.
- Withdraw profits regularly instead of keeping everything offshore.
- Use official channels only — avoid links from social media ads or Telegram groups.
Blogger’s Corner
Buying U.S. stocks is now easier than ever, but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. For Filipinos, the biggest challenge isn’t access — it’s regulation.
Platforms like Interactive Brokers and GoTrade make it possible to own real U.S. shares, but since they’re not SEC-registered in the Philippines, investors must stay alert.
The eToro incident was a reminder that even reputable brokers can be affected by local policy changes. So while you can invest internationally, do it wisely — and always treat foreign brokers as offshore investments, not local ones.