International markets
Learn more about the range of markets available through ii.
Important information: As investment values can go down as well as up, you may not get back all of the money you invest. Currency changes affect international investments, and this can decrease their value in sterling. If you’re unsure if an investment account is right for you, please speak to an authorised financial adviser. Tax treatment depends on your individual circumstances and may be subject to change in the future.
What international markets do we offer?
ii offers one of the widest choice of international investments on the market, with access to 17 global exchanges:
- North America: United States, Canada
- Europe: Ireland, Germany, France, Spain, Belgium, Italy, The Netherlands, Sweden*, Switzerland*
- Asia Pacific: Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore
* phone orders only
Buy Japan, India and China shares using ADRs
As well as direct access to the above exchanges, we also offer Japanese, Indian and Chinese shares in the form of ADRs (American Depositary Receipts).
This simply means certain international shares are available on the US stock exchanges. These shares will have 'ADR' in their title.
How to invest in international markets with ii
If you want to invest in US shares, you will first need to complete a W-8BEN form (unless you are only trading in a SIPP) – this lets you save tax on any dividends or interest that you earn.
You will also need to agree to our online Exchange Agreements – this gives you access to live US prices. You can find out more about setting up your account for US trading here.
Trading international shares will involve exchanging currency. With ii you can hold up to 9 different currencies within your account – this can make international trades much simpler, and will save having to pay exchange fees every time you trade. Learn more about our foreign exchange service.
Any international shares can be held in the same account as your UK investments.
FAQs
When we convert your currency, we use the current exchange rate (or “spot rate”). We'll then apply the relevant foreign exchange charge (see table).
It’s worth remembering, you can hold multiple currencies in your ii Personal Pension (SIPP) and Trading Account. This means you can convert when it works best for you - either as part of a trade or as a stand-alone transaction.
| Core | Plus | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 0.75% | 0.75% (first £50,000) | 0.25% |
| 0.25% (over £50,000) |
Completing a W-8BEN form lets you hold US shares in your account – you cannot trade US shares without it unless you are only trading in a SIPP.
A W-8BEN also gives you access to a reduced tax rate on any earnings.
You can hold up to 9 currencies in your ii SIPP and Trading Account. Only Pounds sterling currency can be held in an ISA and Junior ISA:
- Pounds sterling (GBP)
- US dollars (USD)
- Euros (EUR)
- Canadian dollars (CAD)
- Hong Kong dollars (HKD)
- Singapore dollars (SGD)
- Australian dollars (AUD)
- Swedish krona (SEK)
- Swiss francs (CHF)
Popular international shares with ii customers
Here are the non UK-listed shares that were most held by our investors (by GBP value, as at 31 July 2026).
Our most popular investments should not be taken as personal recommendations to buy or sell a particular stock or fund, and are not intended to provide advice
Choose your investment account
Personal Pension (SIPP)
Get pension peace of mind with our five-time Which? Recommended Personal Pension (SIPP). Invest yourself or let our experts handle your investments for you.
Stocks & Shares ISA
Get tax-free investing all wrapped up with our award-winning ii ISA. Take care of your own investments or let us manage them for you.
Managed ISA
Let us manage your ISA for you. Save time, leave it to the experts and feel confident in your investment goals - all for a low, flat monthly fee.
Trading Account
Invest in the markets you want and access a wide range of UK, US and international shares in a flexible account. It’s safe, secure and simpler investing.
Important information: The ii SIPP is for people who want to make their own decisions when investing for retirement. As investment values can go down as well as up, you may end up with a retirement fund that’s worth less than what you invested. Usually, you won’t be able to withdraw your money until age 55 (57 from 2028). If you’re unsure if a SIPP is right for you, please speak to an authorised financial adviser.