While forex trading traditionally focuses on currency pairs, many brokers now offer access to a wide range of instruments, including global stocks. If you’re looking to diversify your trading portfolio beyond forex, finding a broker that offers access to major global stock exchanges is a smart move. This guide explains how to find a forex broker that allows trading on global stock exchanges and the key features to look for.

Why Trade Global Stocks Through a Forex Broker?

Many forex brokers offer Contracts for Difference (CFDs) or direct stock trading on international equities. This means you can trade:

• US stocks (e.g. NASDAQ, NYSE)
• UK shares (e.g. FTSE-listed companies)
• European equities (e.g. DAX, CAC 40)
• Asian stocks (e.g. Nikkei, Hang Seng)

Trading stocks through a forex broker allows you to:

• Use one platform for all assets
• Access leverage on stock CFDs
• Trade both long and short positions
• Diversify your strategies across global markets

1. Check the Broker’s Instrument Offering

Not all forex brokers provide access to global equities. Visit the broker’s product list or instrument table to confirm that they offer:

• Individual shares from multiple countries
• Stock indices as CFDs
• ETF CFDs (Exchange-Traded Funds)

Some brokers also offer fractional shares, allowing you to trade high-value stocks like Amazon or Tesla with a small investment.

2. Platform Support for Stock Trading

Ensure the trading platform supports share trading features like:

• Real-time stock prices
• Extended market hours (for US pre/post-market trading)
• Fundamental data integration (e.g. P/E ratios, earnings dates)
• Company news feeds

Platforms like MetaTrader 5, cTrader, and proprietary stock trading terminals are best suited for global equities.

3. Market Access by Region

The best brokers allow trading on major global exchanges including:

• United States: NYSE, NASDAQ
• United Kingdom: London Stock Exchange (LSE)
• Europe: Euronext, Xetra, SIX Swiss Exchange
• Asia: Tokyo Stock Exchange, Hong Kong Exchange
• Australia: ASX

Check that your broker allows access to the exchanges relevant to your trading interests.

4. Commission and Fees

Trading global stocks usually involves:

• Spread or commission-based fees
• Exchange fees or data charges
• Currency conversion costs

Look for brokers that clearly disclose these fees and offer competitive rates. Some brokers offer zero-commission stock trading (especially on US equities), but may widen spreads or charge inactivity fees—so always read the fine print.

5. Leverage and Margin Terms

When trading stock CFDs, brokers typically offer leverage up to 1:5 for retail clients, though it may vary by region and regulation. If you prefer to hold real shares rather than trade CFDs, leverage is usually not available.

Choose brokers that provide clear margin requirements and explain how overnight financing or swap rates are calculated.

6. Regulation and Security

Ensure the broker is regulated by a top-tier authority such as:

• FCA (UK)
• ASIC (Australia)
• CySEC (Europe)
• FINMA (Switzerland)
• DFSA (Dubai)

Global stock trading should also be covered under these regulations, ensuring fair execution and data protection.

7. Tools and Research Support

Stock trading benefits from access to:

• Company fundamentals
• Dividend announcements
• Earnings calendars
• Analyst ratings and insights

Look for brokers that provide these tools within the platform or via a dedicated market research portal.

8. Account Types and Access

Some brokers restrict stock trading to certain account types. Choose a broker that allows:

• One account for both forex and stocks
• Multi-currency account options
• Seamless internal fund transfers between asset classes

This keeps your trading experience efficient and streamlined.

Conclusion

Knowing how to find a forex broker that allows trading on global stock exchanges gives you the flexibility to expand your portfolio and explore new opportunities. Prioritise brokers with strong platform support, clear stock listings, transparent fees, and access to major international exchanges. The right broker will let you manage forex and equity trades under one roof—simplifying your trading while expanding your reach across global markets.