Today’s investors aren’t limited by borders, and neither should your portfolio be. Global markets offer broader opportunities, diversify risk, and help you build wealth in the long-term.
Whether you’re pursuing financial freedom or building a lasting legacy, you’ll get an edge by understanding how international markets work.
Where to Invest: Key Global Markets to Know
Not all markets deliver the same depth of opportunity. Here’s a quick guide to the major ones.
- United States: A dynamic market representing about 60% of global market capitalisation, with 3,600+ listed companies with valuations of US$250 million and more across 11 sectors. It is home to many of the world’s most recognised companies, making it ideal for wide diversification and broad exposure.
- United Kingdom: Home to 1,900+ of Europe’s leading established corporations, and many of its larger players tend to be more defensive and value-oriented. Suited for investors seeking stability and breadth.
- Hong Kong: Your gateway to Greater China, offering exposure to some of the world's biggest banks, IT companies, and consumer brands.
- Mainland China: One of the world’s largest, fast-evolving economies. Investing in Shanghai and Shenzhen A-Shares opens the doors to domestic-focused companies and RMB-denominated opportunities.
- Japan: World’s 3rd-largest equity market, supported by corporate governance reforms and strength in semiconductor materials and advanced manufacturing equipment.
Each market is a unique ecosystem. Knowing which depths to explore and how much exposure to allocate is crucial for achieving your long-term wealth ambitions.
How Much to Allocate: Choosing Your Global Exposure
Your investment depth depends on your goals, conviction, and risk appetite.
- Broad Exposure (Surface Level)
For those who prefer a simple, wide-angle approach: Global funds or ETFs tracking benchmarks offer easy diversification. For instance, a 60/40 equity-bond benchmarked to the MSCI All Country World Index and the FTSE World Government Bond Index. - Regional Focus (Mid-Depth)
If you believe certain regions (e.g. Asia Pacific) will outperform long-term, you can tilt your allocation accordingly. For instance, the 60/40 equity-bond approach above has an 18% allocation to Asia-Pacific markets. An investor with a strong conviction in Asia may have a larger allocation than that by adding additional Asia-focused unit trusts. - Targeted Picks (Deep Dive)
Confident in specific companies? Direct investments in individual stocks (e.g., Apple, Microsoft) could provide for potentially higher returns.
There's no one-size-fits-all strategy. Your portfolio should reflect your personal objectives.
Understanding Costs: What to Expect When Investing Globally
Fees matter, and they can vary by product and market.
Typical Fees with DBS Treasures
- Unit Trusts: Trade online at a sales charge of 0.82%.
- digiPortfolio on digibank: 0.25% - 0.85% p.a. tiered management fee based on portfolio value and portfolio type.
- Online Equity Trading: Competitive rates across 8 key markets - Singapore, Hong Kong, Mainland China, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan and the UK. You can also trade Hong Kong odd lots directly on digibank for greater flexibility.
Market | Online Rate1 | Minimum Charge |
|---|---|---|
Singapore | 0.12% | No minimum |
United States | 0.15% | USD 19.62 |
Hong Kong | 0.15% | HKD 87.20 |
Shanghai A & Shenzhen A | 0.25% | CNH 87.20 |
Canada | 0.25% | CAD 21.80 |
United Kingdom | 0.25% | GBP 21.80 |
Australia | 0.25% | AUD 21.80 |
Japan | 0.25% | JPY 2,180 |
1 Fee or charge will be subjected to GST at the prevailing rate, where applicable.
Managing Currency Risk: Don’t Overlook FX Movements
When you invest overseas, currency swings can affect your returns. A strong stock may deliver lesser returns if FX moves against you, and more if it moves in your favour.
Understanding FX risk helps you make clearer decisions and stay ahead of market shifts.
Related article: How foreign currency impact investments, even if you’re not directly invested in FX.
Check the Conditions: What’s Driving Today’s Markets
Before investing, take stock of current economic and geopolitical trends.
Summary from CIO Insights 1Q26: The Long Game
Stay invested, stay diversified.
- The US Fed’s policies to end quantitative tightening and cut interest rates will support US growth
- A diversified portfolio of quality equities, bonds, and alternatives will outperform inflation
- Today’s Big Tech is unlike the 2000-2001 Tech, Media, and Telecom bubble
- AI, healthcare, and Asian equities are compelling, while investment-grade bonds offer steady income
- Anchor with Alternatives - overweight gold; favour private equity and private credit in portfolios
Your Global Investing Partner
With the right partner, global investing becomes a confident, guided journey. DBS Treasures gives you the tools, insights, and access needed to explore new markets with clarity.
Ready to explore the vast ocean of global opportunities?
If you’re new to us:
If you need help finding your Relationship Manager, your digibank app can help. Simply log-in, tap on the question mark icon at the top right, select “Your Relationship Manager”, and choose whether to call or email them.
