- DCBE: mandatory for values above US$100,000.00, with a deadline until April of each year
- Income Tax Declaration: all foreign investments must be reported, regardless of value
- Earnings declaration: the tax must be collected via DARF by the last business day of the month following the sale
Discover the best strategies for Brazilians looking to diversify their portfolio with international stocks. This learn offers a clear and practical path to navigate the global market, understand Brazil's specific regulations, and maximize your returns with foreign investments safely and efficiently.
The current landscape for Brazilians investing abroad
The global investment scenario has undergone significant transformations in recent years, opening unprecedented opportunities for Brazilian investors. Understanding how to invest in stocks abroad has become fundamental for those seeking diversification and protection against the volatility of the national market. In 2025, with greater integration of financial markets and simplification of regulatory processes, Brazilians have easier access to innovative companies and economic sectors poorly represented on B3.
Pocket Option has observed a significant increase in the number of Brazilians interested in expanding their financial horizons beyond national borders. Recent data shows that the volume of investments by Brazilians in foreign markets grew 35% in the last two years, driven by the search for protection against local economic instability and the desire to participate in the growth of technological giants and innovative global companies.
Contrary to what many think, how to invest in stocks abroad is not a process exclusive to large investors or international finance experts. With the right tools and adequate knowledge, retail investors can build globally diversified portfolios with modest initial investments. The key is understanding the regulatory, tax, and operational particularities that specifically affect Brazilians in this market.
Legal and tax foundations for Brazilians investing internationally
Before exploring how to buy international stocks, it’s essential to understand the regulatory environment governing these investments for Brazilians. The Federal Revenue Service establishes specific rules for declaring and taxing investments abroad, and ignoring them can result in significant penalties.
Tax regime for international investments
Investments in foreign stocks are subject to Income Tax on capital gains, with a 15% rate on profit. It’s important to highlight that, unlike investments in Brazilian stocks, there is no exemption for monthly operations below R$20,000.00 when it comes to international stocks.
| Tax Aspect | Brazilian Stocks | International Stocks |
|---|---|---|
| Income Tax Rate (capital gain) | 15% | 15% |
| Exemption for monthly sales | Up to R$20,000.00 | None |
| Taxation moment | Upon sale | Upon sale |
| Loss compensation | Allowed | Allowed only between operations abroad |
| Annual declaration | Mandatory | Mandatory + Declaration of Assets Abroad (DBE) |
The specialists at Pocket Option recommend maintaining rigorous control of all operations carried out abroad, including dates, purchase and sale values, and fees paid. This control facilitates not only the correct declaration of investments but also fiscal optimization within legal limits.
Mandatory declaration and compliance
Every Brazilian with investments abroad above US$100,000.00 must make the Declaration of Brazilian Capital Abroad (DCBE) to the Central Bank. Additionally, regardless of the amount, all foreign investments must be declared in the annual Income Tax.
Failure to comply with these obligations can result in fines ranging from R$1,000.00 to 3% of the undeclared value, in addition to possible more serious legal complications in cases of significant amounts.
Methods for Brazilians to invest in international stocks
There are different paths for Brazilians who want to learn how to invest in stocks abroad. Each method has specific advantages and disadvantages, and the ideal choice depends on the investor’s profile, the amount to be invested, and long-term financial goals.
| Method | Advantages | Disadvantages | Minimum Investment |
|---|---|---|---|
| International brokers | Direct access, lower costs, greater variety | Tax complexity, English interface | Starting from US$1 |
| BDRs (on B3) | Ease, in Brazilian reais, same national broker | Less variety, higher costs, limited liquidity | Unit price of the BDR (varies) |
| International ETFs | Automatic diversification, simplicity | Less control over specific companies | Unit price of the ETF (varies) |
| Investment funds | Professional management, tax simplicity | High fees, less control | Starting from R$100 to R$5,000 |
International brokers: the most direct path
For investors seeking greater control and variety, opening an account with an international broker remains the most complete option for how to buy international stocks. The process, once complex, has been significantly simplified in recent years.
Pocket Option offers a simplified process that includes Portuguese support and a translated interface, eliminating one of the main barriers for Brazilians: language. The account opening process can be carried out completely online, following some basic steps:
- Prepare basic documentation: passport or ID, proof of residence, and CPF (Brazilian tax ID)
- Fill out the account opening form
- Go through the identity verification process (KYC)
- Make the first international transfer
- Start operating in the international market
An important differential of Pocket Option is the possibility of making transfers in Brazilian reais, with automatic conversion to dollars at competitive rates, minimizing exchange costs that traditionally impact Brazilians in the international market.
Global diversification strategies for Brazilians
Understanding how to invest in stocks abroad goes beyond operational and tax aspects. It is fundamental to develop an allocation strategy that complements your local investments and meets your specific objectives.
Unlike the Brazilian market, concentrated in commodities, banks, and some consumer companies, the global market offers exposure to innovative sectors such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, clean energy, and advanced digital services. A well-designed strategy for international investments should consider:
| Strategic Element | Considerations for Brazilians |
|---|---|
| Currency hedging | Exposure to the dollar and other strong currencies as a hedge against the devaluation of the real |
| Sector diversification | Focus on sectors poorly represented in Brazil (technology, advanced healthcare, etc.) |
| Geographic exposure | Distribution between developed and emerging markets, seeking negative correlation with Brazil |
| Time horizon | Adaptation to currency volatility, generally recommending longer timeframes |
| Portfolio proportion | Recommendation of 10% to 40% international exposure, depending on profile |
Sectoral approach: what to prioritize abroad
Pocket Option analysts recommend that Brazilians prioritize sectors with low representation on B3 in international markets. In particular, opportunities stand out in:
- Cutting-edge technology: semiconductor companies, cloud computing, and business software
- Innovative healthcare: biotechnology, advanced medical equipment, and research pharmaceuticals
- Luxury consumption: global brands with strong growth in emerging markets
- Renewable energy: leading companies in solar, wind, and energy storage technologies
- Automation and robotics: leaders in industrial transformation and autonomous logistics
An interesting approach is what experts call “”investment in irrefutable global trends”” – directing resources to companies well-positioned in long-term trends such as population aging, water scarcity, digital transformation, and energy transition.
The role of digital platforms in global access
The digital revolution has radically transformed how to buy international stocks for Brazilians. Specialized platforms like Pocket Option have democratized access to the global market, eliminating barriers that previously made these investments accessible only to high-income or institutional investors.
Among the most significant advances are:
| Innovation | Impact for Brazilians |
|---|---|
| Fractional shares | Possibility to invest in expensive companies with small amounts (e.g., Amazon, Google) |
| Translated interfaces | Elimination of the language barrier, facilitating operation for non-fluent English speakers |
| Banking integration | Ease for international transfers with lower costs and bureaucracy |
| Tax reports | Automatic generation of reports adapted to the requirements of the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service |
Pocket Option stands out by offering an integrated solution for Brazilians, with Portuguese support, educational materials contextualized for the local reality, and tools that simplify both the investment process and compliance with tax obligations.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Many Brazilians face avoidable difficulties when learning how to invest in stocks abroad. Identifying the most common mistakes and adopting strategies to avoid them can save time, money, and frustration.
- Neglecting tax aspects: many investors discover the tax complexities too late
- Inadequate timing for remittances: making transfers without considering exchange rate volatility
- Excessive concentration: replicating abroad the same asset concentration they have in Brazil
- Neglecting hidden costs: exchange rates, transfer costs, and inactivity costs
- Insufficient monitoring: ignoring time zone differences and relevant corporate events
At Pocket Option, we see daily how lack of planning can negatively impact the results of Brazilian investors abroad. Therefore, we have developed specific educational resources and a structured onboarding process to minimize these risks.
The case of international inheritance tax
An aspect often neglected by Brazilians when investing abroad is succession planning. Investments held directly in foreign brokerages may be subject to taxation in the country where they are custodied, in addition to Brazilian taxes.
For example, shares held directly in the US may be subject to the American estate tax, which can reach 40% for non-residents, even if the investor is Brazilian. Adequate estate planning structures can significantly mitigate this risk.
Starting your international journey: a practical plan
For Brazilian investors who want to start diversifying globally, we recommend an action plan structured in progressive stages:
| Phase | Recommended Actions | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Financial education, goal setting, platform research | 1-2 months |
| Initial implementation | Account opening, first remittance, initial diversified investments | 2-4 weeks |
| Consolidation | Gradual increase in exposure, sectoral and geographical diversification | 6-12 months |
| Optimization | Strategy review, tax optimization, allocation adjustments | Annually |
A critical aspect when starting international investments is integration with your complete financial strategy. It’s not just about acquiring foreign stocks, but building a globally diversified estate that meets your specific short, medium, and long-term goals.
Pocket Option offers personalized consulting to help Brazilians build this integrated vision, considering aspects such as emergency reserves, retirement goals, asset protection, and succession planning.
The future of international investments for Brazilians
The scenario for Brazilians seeking how to buy international stocks continues to evolve rapidly. Emerging trends suggest an even more favorable environment in the coming years:
- Greater integration between financial systems, reducing transfer and exchange costs
- Regulatory evolution with possible simplification of tax obligations for small investors
- Platforms with services increasingly adapted to the specific needs of Brazilians
- Growth of the specialized consulting market in international investments
- Development of hybrid products that combine local and international characteristics
Pocket Option remains at the forefront of these transformations, constantly investing in technology and services that facilitate the Brazilian investor’s journey in the global market.
Conclusion: building your global assets
Learning how to invest in stocks abroad represents a fundamental step for Brazilian investors seeking true diversification and asset protection in an increasingly interconnected world. The barriers that traditionally hindered this process are being rapidly eliminated, opening unprecedented opportunities.
The key to success in this journey lies in the combination of knowledge, careful planning, and appropriate partners. Rather than viewing international investments as an isolated adventure, it is more productive to integrate them into a comprehensive financial strategy that considers your life goals, risk profile, and time horizon.
Pocket Option positions itself as a partner for Brazilians in this journey, offering not only the necessary technological infrastructure but also contextualized knowledge and personalized support that make the difference between isolated attempts and a consistent global asset-building strategy.
The time to take this step has never been more favorable. With the right tools and proper guidance, Brazilian investors of all profiles can now access global opportunities that were previously reserved for a select group of privileged individuals. The world of international investments is within your reach—you just need to take the first step.
FAQ
What is the minimum amount to start investing in international stocks?
With platforms like Pocket Option, it's possible to start with amounts as low as US$1, especially thanks to fractional shares that allow you to buy portions of expensive company stocks. However, for effective diversification, it's recommended to start with at least US$100 to US$500.
Is it necessary to declare small international investments on Income Tax returns?
Yes, all foreign investments, regardless of amount, must be declared on the annual Income Tax return. Investments above US$100,000.00 also require the Declaration of Brazilian Capital Abroad (DCBE) to the Central Bank.
What are the best international stocks for Brazilians to invest in 2025?
There is no single answer, as it depends on the investor's profile. However, sectors underrepresented in Brazil, such as advanced technology, healthcare and biotechnology, renewable energy, and global premium consumer goods, are typically good options to complement a typical Brazilian portfolio.
How does taxation on international stock dividends work?
International stock dividends generally face double taxation: first in the country of origin (for example, 30% withheld at source in the USA) and then in Brazil, with the possibility of offsetting the tax paid abroad. Pocket Option offers reports that help with the correct calculation and declaration of these earnings.
Is it better to invest via BDRs or directly in international stocks?
It depends on your objectives. BDRs offer operational and tax simplicity, keeping investments in reais, but have less variety and generally higher costs. Direct investments offer complete access to the global market, natural exchange rate protection, and potentially lower costs, but require greater knowledge and attention to specific tax obligations.