How Can You Invest in the Nasdaq from India?

The Nasdaq, known for hosting tech giants and innovative companies, is a major attraction for global investors. For Indian investors looking to expand their market exposure, the common question is: "Can I invest in Nasdaq from India?" The answer is yes! Investing in the Nasdaq opens up access to some of the most dynamic and impactful companies worldwide. This guide will explore Nasdaq index investing, with a special focus on the Nasdaq-100 index, and walk you through the steps to start investing.

Understanding Nasdaq: The tech-heavy US stock exchange

What is Nasdaq?

Nasdaq, which stands for National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotations, is a global electronic marketplace for buying and selling securities. It opened for business on February 8, 1971, as the world's first electronic stock market. Today, Nasdaq has more than 3,300 company listings and is located in Times Square, New York City.

As an electronic exchange, Nasdaq has no physical trading floor. Instead, it uses automated computer networks to make trades. This innovative approach has made Nasdaq a leader in driving technological advancements in the financial industry.

Nasdaq operates as a dealers' market, where brokers buy and sell stocks through market makers rather than directly from each other. More than 260 market-making firms help promote efficient markets and maintain the liquidity of Nasdaq-listed stocks.

Nasdaq vs NYSE: Key differences

While both Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) are major U.S. stock exchanges, they have some key differences:

1. Trading model: Nasdaq is an entirely electronic exchange, while NYSE uses a hybrid model that combines both people and technology.
2. Market type: Nasdaq is a dealer market, whereas NYSE is an auction market.
3. Listing requirements: It's generally easier and less expensive for companies to list on Nasdaq compared to NYSE.
4. Company focus: Nasdaq is known for listing many technology and growth-oriented companies, while NYSE traditionally attracts more established, large-scale companies.

Popular companies listed on Nasdaq

Nasdaq is home to many of the world's most influential technology companies. Some of the popular companies listed on Nasdaq include:

• Apple (AAPL)
• Microsoft (MSFT)
• Amazon (AMZN)
• Alphabet (GOOG)
• Tesla (TSLA)
• Meta Platforms, Inc. (META)
• NVIDIA (NVDA)
• Netflix (NFLX)
• Comcast (CMCSA)

These companies, among others, contribute to the Nasdaq Composite Index, which includes more than 2,500 stocks listed on the exchange. This index is widely regarded as a barometer of the technology sector's financial health.

Nasdaq's focus on technology and growth stocks has led to its outperformance of other stock markets in recent years. For investors looking to participate in Nasdaq's high-performing but volatile stocks, index funds offer an accessible entry point.

Legal requirements for Indians investing in Nasdaq

RBI's liberalized remittance scheme (LRS)

The Reserve Bank of India's Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS) has made it easier for Indian residents to invest in foreign markets, including the Nasdaq. Introduced in 2004, the LRS allows individuals to remit funds for various purposes, including investments abroad.

Initially, the LRS had a modest annual limit of INR 2,094,142.61. However, it has evolved significantly over time. Currently, the scheme permits remittances of up to INR 20,941,426.06 (equivalent to USD 250,000) per financial year. This substantial increase has opened up more opportunities for Indian investors to diversify their portfolios internationally.

The LRS applies to all resident individuals, including minors. It covers both current and capital account transactions, allowing for a wide range of financial activities. Eligible individuals must have an active Indian bank account, a valid Permanent Account Number (PAN), and a passport.

Under the LRS, Indian residents can engage in various transactions, including:

1. Purchasing foreign securities, including stocks listed on Nasdaq
2. Opening foreign currency accounts abroad
3. Acquiring property in foreign countries
4. Making investments in mutual funds and other financial instruments

KYC and tax implications

When investing in Nasdaq stocks, Indian residents must comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. This involves providing necessary documentation to the Authorized Dealer (AD) bank through which remittances are made. New customers seeking to make capital account remittances may be subject to additional due diligence.

Tax implications are an important consideration for Indian investors in Nasdaq stocks. Here are key points to remember:

1. Dividend Tax: Dividends from US stocks are subject to a flat 25% tax in the US. The remaining amount is taxable in India as per the individual's income tax slab.
2. Capital Gains Tax: While there's no capital gains tax in the US for foreign investors, gains are taxable in India. Long-term capital gains (investments held for over 24 months) are taxed at 20%, while short-term gains are added to the investor's taxable income.
3. Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): India and the US have a DTAA, which allows investors to offset taxes paid in the US against their Indian tax liability.
4. Tax Collected at Source (TCS): As of July 1, 2023, all remittances under LRS are subject to TCS, regardless of whether they are incurred within India or outside.

A step-by-step guide to invest in Nasdaq from India

Choose a reliable international broker

The first step in investing in Nasdaq from India is to select a trustworthy international broker. Investors can choose between domestic brokers with U.S. stockbroker partnerships or foreign brokers with a presence in India. Some popular options include Interactive Brokers, Charles Schwab, and Ameritrade. When selecting a broker, consider factors such as fees, available services, research capabilities, and customer support.

Open a trading account

Once a broker is chosen, the next step is to open a trading account. This process typically involves submitting various documents, including identity proof, address proof, tax ID proof, and bank statements. Some brokers offer a completely digital KYC process, which can be completed in just a few minutes.

Fund your account

After the account is set up, it's time to fund it. Many brokers provide digital and cost-effective funding methods. Indian residents can invest up to INR 20,941,426.06 (approximately USD 250,000) per financial year under the Reserve Bank of India's Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS).

Select and purchase Nasdaq stocks or ETFs

With a funded account, investors can start exploring Nasdaq investment opportunities. They can choose to invest in individual Nasdaq-listed stocks or opt for Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) that track the Nasdaq index. Some popular Nasdaq-listed companies include Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Alphabet. Investments can be made with as little as INR 0.84 (1 cent).

When investing in Nasdaq stocks, it's crucial to consider factors such as currency exchange rates and taxes on capital gains. Additionally, investors should be aware that some platforms may have restrictions on certain investment vehicles or the number of trades that can be made.

Investing in Nasdaq from India opens up a world of opportunities for those looking to diversify their portfolios. By following the steps outlined in this guide, Indian investors can gain access to some of the world's most innovative companies and potentially benefit from their growth.

As with any investment, it's important to do thorough research and consider your financial goals before diving in. The Nasdaq's focus on technology and growth stocks can offer exciting prospects, but it also comes with its own set of risks. By staying informed and making wise decisions, Indian investors can tap into the potential of the Nasdaq market and potentially enhance their investment strategies.