米国株の買い方完全ガイド：初心者でも安心！口座開設から銘柄選びまでHow to Buy US Stocks: A Complete Guide for Beginners – From Account Opening to Stock Selection

Investing in the US market, the heart of the global economy, is an attractive option for many Japanese investors. It offers the potential to harness the growth of world-leading companies and build wealth. However, when hearing "how to buy US stocks," many might feel intimidated by complex procedures or language barriers. This article aims to guide beginners through every step, from opening an account and selecting stocks to placing orders and understanding crucial considerations. By the end of this guide, you should feel confident to start your US stock investment journey.

The Appeal and Benefits of Investing in US Stocks

Why should you focus on US stocks now? Here are the main reasons and benefits:

• Growth Potential of Companies Driving the Global Economy: Leading innovative companies such as Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet (Google), and Meta Platforms (Facebook) are concentrated in the US market. The growth of these companies holds the potential to directly enhance investors' asset values.
• Diverse Investment Opportunities: A wide variety of companies across numerous sectors, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, are listed. Beyond individual stock investments, you can easily achieve diversified investment through ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) linked to major indices like the S&P 500 or NASDAQ 100.
• Risk Reduction Through Diversification: If you only invest in Japanese stocks, your assets are exposed to the risks associated with the Japanese economy. Investing in US stocks helps achieve geographical diversification, which can reduce the overall risk of your portfolio.
• Strong Shareholder Return Culture: US companies tend to be proactive in returning profits to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks. This creates an environment where long-term holding can be particularly beneficial.

How to Buy US Stocks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here's a clear, step-by-step guide for beginners on how to start investing in US stocks.

Step 1: Selecting a Brokerage Firm and Opening an Account

To begin investing in US stocks, you first need a brokerage account. Most major online brokerage firms in Japan offer US stock trading services.

• Key Points for Choosing a Brokerage Firm: As discussed later, compare factors such as fees, available stocks, information tools, and customer support.
• Account Opening: Many brokerage firms allow you to complete the account opening process online. With identity verification documents like a My Number card, an account can often be opened within a few days.
  • Utilizing a "Tokutei Koza" (Specific Account with Withholding Tax): To simplify tax filing, it's generally recommended to choose a "Tokutei Koza" with withholding tax.
  • Considering a NISA Account: Japan's Small Amount Investment Tax Exemption System (NISA – Tsumitate NISA, General NISA) allows investment gains up to a certain amount to be tax-exempt. US stocks are eligible for NISA, so actively consider utilizing it.

[Affiliate Location: Compare major online brokerage firms and account opening guide]

Step 2: Depositing Japanese Yen and Exchanging for Foreign Currency (USD)

Once your account is open, you'll need to prepare your investment funds. Since US stocks are traded in USD, you'll need to exchange Japanese Yen for US Dollars.

• Depositing Funds: First, deposit Japanese Yen from your bank account into your brokerage account.
• Exchange Method: Exchange Japanese Yen for US Dollars within your brokerage account. There are options like "real-time exchange" and "scheduled exchange"; generally, you'll use real-time exchange at the current foreign exchange rate. Also, consider the exchange fees.
  • Yen-Denominated Settlement vs. Foreign Currency-Denominated Settlement: Some brokerage firms allow you to purchase US stocks directly with Yen ("Yen-denominated settlement"), while others require you to exchange Yen to Dollars beforehand ("foreign currency-denominated settlement"). Foreign currency-denominated settlement often has lower exchange fees, which can be advantageous for long-term investments.

Step 3: Selecting Stocks

Next, choose which US stocks to invest in. For beginners, starting with ETFs rather than individual stocks is often recommended.

• Individual Stocks: Purchase shares of a specific company. While offering the potential for high returns, they also carry higher risk. Thorough company analysis (financial statements, business operations, future prospects, competitor comparison, etc.) is crucial.
• ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds): ETFs that track indices like the S&P 500 or NASDAQ 100 offer the benefit of diversified investment across multiple companies. They allow for easy diversification with small amounts, making them suitable for beginners.
• Information Gathering: Utilize information tools provided by your brokerage firm, news websites, and expert reports to thoroughly research the stocks or ETFs you wish to invest in. However, avoid blindly trusting information; it is crucial to make your own judgments.

Step 4: Understanding Order Types

Once you've decided on the stocks you want to buy, you'll place an order.

• Main Order Types:
  • Limit Order: This method allows you to specify a price, such as "buy below $X" or "sell above $Y." The advantage is that you can trade at your desired price, but there's a possibility the trade might not execute if the price isn't met.
  • Market Order: This method places an order to buy or sell at the current market price without specifying a price. It's likely to execute quickly, but there's a risk of the trade executing at an unexpected price.
• Trading Hours: The US market trading hours are from night to early morning in Japan (Summer Time: 10:30 PM to 5:00 AM JST the next day; Winter Time: 11:30 PM to 6:00 AM JST the next day). Many brokerage firms allow you to place order reservations during Japanese daytime hours.

Key Considerations and Risks in US Stock Investment

While US stock investment is attractive, it comes with several risks and important considerations. It's essential to understand these before investing.

Currency Risk

Since US stocks are traded in USD, fluctuations in exchange rates can impact your investment returns. For example, even if stock prices rise, a strengthening Yen (Yen appreciation, Dollar depreciation) could reduce your profits in Yen terms or even lead to a loss.

Price Volatility Risk

Stock prices fluctuate due to various factors such as company performance, economic conditions, and political situations. There is a risk that the stock price of your invested company may decline, leading to a loss of principal.

Taxation

Profits earned from US stock investments are subject to taxes in both the US and Japan.

• Double Taxation: Dividends from US stocks are first subject to a 10% withholding tax in the US. Subsequently, approximately 20% tax is levied in Japan, resulting in double taxation.
• Foreign Tax Credit: To mitigate this double taxation, there is a system called "Foreign Tax Credit." By filing a final tax return, you can deduct part or all of the tax levied in the US from your Japanese tax. Even with a "Tokutei Koza" (withholding tax option), you will need to file a final tax return to claim this credit.

Importance of Information Gathering and Self-Judgment

The internet is flooded with investment information, but not all of it is accurate. It is crucial to avoid being misled by social media or media information, gather information from reliable sources from multiple angles, and ultimately make investment decisions based on your own judgment.

Key Points for Choosing a Brokerage Firm

Selecting a reliable brokerage firm is crucial for successful US stock investing. Consider the following points when making your comparison:

• Trading Fees: Fees for buying and selling US stocks vary by brokerage firm. If you plan to trade frequently, choosing a firm with lower fees can help reduce costs.
• Breadth of Available Stocks: Check if the specific stocks or ETFs you want to invest in are available for trading at that brokerage firm. Most major firms cover popular stocks.
• Information Tools and Analytical Features: Verify if the firm provides comprehensive information and tools useful for investment decisions, such as company financial data, real-time stock prices, analyst reports, and chart analysis tools. The availability of robust information in Japanese is also important.
• Customer Support System: For beginners, a responsive customer support system for inquiries is essential. Check if they offer support channels that suit you, such as phone, email, or chat.

Conclusion

While US stock investment offers significant growth opportunities, it also comes with risks. Understanding the steps and considerations outlined in this article, and proceeding carefully according to your investment goals and risk tolerance, is key to success. We recommend starting with a small amount to gain experience and feel the market's movements firsthand. Investment is at your own risk, and future results are not guaranteed. However, with proper knowledge and preparation, US stock investment can be a powerful ally in your wealth-building journey.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes related to investment and does not constitute a solicitation for specific financial products or investment advice. Investment decisions are solely your responsibility. Financial products carry the risk of principal loss. Future investment performance is not guaranteed.