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How to Invest in US and Global Stocks from the Philippines (2026 Guide)

By Aayush Jain·Reviewed May 8, 2026·9 min read

Filipino investors can access US and global markets, and the BSP doesn't impose an LRS-equivalent limit. The main consideration is choosing a broker and understanding Philippine tax obligations on foreign investment income.

Best brokers for Filipino investors

  • Interactive Brokers: available in Philippines. Lowest FX cost ($10 per $10,000). USD wire or SWIFT required for funding.
  • eToro: accepts Filipino investors. 1.5% FX fee. Simpler than IBKR for beginners.
  • First Metro Securities (Philippines): local broker with US stock access. Higher fees but local support.
  • COL Financial: Philippine stockbroker. Primarily PSEi (Philippine Stock Exchange) — US stocks via partnership.

Philippine tax on foreign investments

  • Capital gains from foreign stocks: taxable as ordinary income at your marginal rate (0–35%).
  • Foreign dividends: taxed as ordinary income. US withholds 30% (no US-Philippines treaty reduction for most investors). Foreign tax credit available.
  • File BIR annual ITR declaring all foreign income. Use the correct income code for foreign-sourced income.
  • BSP documentation: large outward remittances (over $10,000) require BSP reporting via your bank.

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