Investing in global companies like Apple, Nvidia and Microsoft is becoming easier for Indian investors. Several Indian investment platforms now offer access to US-listed stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
But before choosing a platform, there is one important question: Which platform lets you invest in global stocks at the lowest overall cost?
Zerodha, Groww, Upstox, INDmoney, Vested and Angel One offer different routes to international investing. While brokerage fees are important, currency conversion, money transfer charges, taxes and withdrawal fees can also affect your total investment cost.
Let's compare the major platforms and understand what investors should check before investing overseas.
1. Zerodha vs Groww vs Upstox: Brokerage Charges
Each platform follows a different brokerage structure for US stocks. According to the comparison in the source material, the charges are as follows:
Zerodha
Zerodha offers access to US stocks and ETFs through its GIFT City route, India INX Global Access, and ViewTrade, a US broker-dealer. The brokerage is 0.1% per order, with a minimum charge of $0.01 and a maximum of $10.
Its brokerage cap may benefit investors placing larger orders.
Groww
Groww provides access to US stocks and ETFs through Alpaca Securities, a US-based brokerage infrastructure provider. The brokerage is 0.1% per order or $1, whichever is higher.
The platform does not charge account opening or maintenance fees, according to the comparison.
Upstox
Upstox offers US stock and ETF access through Alpaca Securities LLC, a US-regulated broker-dealer and FINRA-member clearing broker-dealer.
Its brokerage is 0.25% per trade, with a minimum of $0.01 and a maximum of $25 per trade.
INDmoney
INDmoney provides access through DriveWealth LLC or Alpaca Securities LLC, depending on the account route. Its brokerage is 0.25% per trade.
The comparison lists zero account opening, annual maintenance and platform fees.
Vested
Vested offers access through VF Securities, Inc. Its Basic plan charges 0.25% per trade, while the Premium plan charges 0.15%, subject to a maximum of $35 per trade.
The Premium plan offers a lower brokerage rate, but investors should consider any subscription or other applicable charges before choosing it.
Angel One
Angel One offers international investing through GIFT City. According to the comparison, brokerage is promotional at 0% through December 2026. From January 2027, the listed rate is 0.1% per trade, with a minimum charge of $0.99.
Investors should confirm the latest applicable terms before opening an account.
2. Is Brokerage the Only Cost of Investing?
No. A platform with low brokerage may not necessarily be the cheapest option overall.
Here are four additional costs to consider:
Currency conversion charges: Your Indian rupees must be converted into US dollars. The exchange rate and any forex markup can affect how many dollars you receive.
Money transfer charges: Banks or intermediaries may charge fees when you transfer money to fund your overseas investment account.
Taxes and regulatory charges: GST and applicable regulatory fees may increase the total transaction cost. Tax collected at source (TCS) may also apply to eligible overseas remittances under the applicable rules.
Withdrawal charges: When you sell your investments and bring the money back to India, withdrawal, bank transfer or currency conversion charges may apply.
These expenses can make a significant difference, particularly for investors who make frequent transactions or invest smaller amounts.
3. Which Platform Is Cheapest?
There is no single cheapest platform for every investor. The answer depends on your investment amount, trading frequency, account route and the charges applicable to your transaction.
- For larger orders: Zerodha's maximum brokerage cap of $10 may be worth considering.
- For investors comparing basic fees: Groww's 0.1% or $1 minimum structure may be attractive for certain order sizes.
- For promotional pricing: Angel One's listed zero-brokerage offer runs through December 2026, subject to its terms.
- For Premium-plan users: Vested's lower brokerage rate may be useful if the plan's overall cost makes sense.
- For investors considering Upstox or INDmoney: Compare their 0.25% brokerage with the currency conversion, transfer and withdrawal charges applicable to your account.
These are comparisons of listed brokerage structures, not a guarantee of the lowest total cost. Fees and terms can change, so check the latest official schedule before investing.
4. What About Interactive Brokers?
Interactive Brokers is another option for investors seeking direct access to international markets.
Unlike platforms that offer access through specific US brokerage or GIFT City arrangements, Interactive Brokers provides a direct global brokerage account with access to markets across the US, Europe, Asia and other regions.
Its US stock pricing can be based on per-share charges, with tiered and fixed pricing plans. The right plan depends on your trading volume and other applicable costs.
Investors should also compare account eligibility, funding methods, foreign exchange charges and tax compliance requirements before deciding.
5. US Stocks or Indian Stocks: What Should Beginners Know?
Investing in international stocks can help diversify a portfolio beyond Indian companies. It also provides access to businesses operating in sectors such as technology, healthcare and consumer goods.
However, global investing comes with additional risks.
- Currency risk: Changes in the rupee-dollar exchange rate can affect your returns in rupees.
- Market risk: US stock prices can fall, just like Indian stock prices.
- Tax implications: Foreign investments may involve additional reporting and tax requirements in India.
- Transfer costs: Sending money abroad and bringing it back may involve additional charges.
- Regulatory differences: The investment route can affect the rules, protections and procedures applicable to your account.
Before investing, understand the platform, the underlying broker, the applicable regulations and the risks involved.
Final Takeaway
Choosing between Zerodha, Groww, Upstox, INDmoney, Vested and Angel One is not just about finding the lowest brokerage percentage.
The real comparison is the total cost of buying, holding and selling your investments, including currency conversion, money transfers, taxes and withdrawals.
Compare the complete fee structure for your expected investment amount before making a decision. A small difference in charges can add up over time, but costs should not be the only factor. Platform reliability, regulatory arrangements, customer support and ease of funding also matter.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not investment advice. Brokerage figures and promotional offers are based on the supplied source material and may change. Verify current charges, eligibility, regulatory requirements and tax implications with the relevant platform and qualified professionals before investing.
