Donald C. Reutemann CFP®, RPA, AIF®

(518) 688-2223

Investment Read Time: 3 min

Global vs. International: What’s The Difference?

With international stock markets comprising about 44.1 percent of the world's capitalization as of 2021, a broad range of investment opportunities exist outside the borders of the U.S.1

For investors who are looking to diversify their mutual fund portfolio with exposure to companies located outside the U.S., there exist two basic choices: A global mutual fund or an international mutual fund.2,3

By definition, international funds invest in non-U.S. markets, while global funds may invest in U.S. stocks alongside non-U.S. stocks.

Make a Choice

The definition may seem clear, but what may seem less clear is why an investor might select one over the other.

The reason that an investor may select a global fund is to provide the portfolio manager with the latitude to move the fund's investments among non-U.S. markets and the U.S. market in order to take advantage of the shifts in relative opportunities these markets may present at any given moment.

By investing in a global fund, the challenge for the investor is that he or she may not know at any point in time their total exposure to the U.S. market within the context of their overall portfolio.

An Inside Look

As a consequence, some investors want to manage their allocation risk by setting the broad asset allocation for their portfolio and then identifying funds that are within those asset classes. For these investors, an international fund may make more sense since it allows them to maintain a greater adherence to their desired domestic/international stock allocation.

Keep in mind that asset allocation is an approach to help manage investment risk. Asset allocation does not guarantee against investment loss.

As you consider a global or an international fund, you should also be aware of the fund's approach to the inherent currency risks. Some funds choose to engage in strategies that may mitigate the effects of currency fluctuations, while others consider currency movements – up and down – to be an element of portfolio performance.

Mutual funds are sold only by prospectus. Please consider the charges, risks, expenses and investment objectives carefully before investing. A prospectus containing this and other information about the investment company can be obtained from your financial professional. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

1. Statista.com, 2022
2. Diversification is an approach to help manage investment risk. It does not eliminate the risk of loss if security prices decline.
3. International investments carry additional risks, which include differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risk unique to a specific country, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Coaches

Coaches

Coaches have helped you your whole life, in ways big and small. We'd like to be one of them.

Debt Stress

Debt Stress

There’s a link between debt and stress.

A Look at Systematic Withdrawals

A Look at Systematic Withdrawals

This calculator may help you estimate how long funds may last given regular withdrawals.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Orchestrating Your Retirement Accounts

Getting the instruments of your retirement to work in concert may go far in realizing the retirement you imagine.

Five Most Overlooked Tax Deductions

Five overlooked tax deductions to help manage your tax bill.

Healthcare Costs in Retirement

Without a solid approach, health care expenses may add up quickly and potentially alter your spending.

View all articles

Paying Off a Credit Card

Enter various payment options and determine how long it may take to pay off a credit card.

Annuity Comparison

This calculator compares a hypothetical fixed annuity with an account where the interest is taxed each year.

Comparing Mortgage Terms

Estimate the total cost in today's dollars of various mortgage alternatives.

View all calculators

Managing Your Lifestyle

Using smart management to get more of what you want and free up assets to invest.

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

View all presentations

Should You Tap Retirement Savings to Fund College?

There are three things to consider before dipping into retirement savings to pay for college.

The Junk Drawer Approach to Investing

It's easy to let investments accumulate like old receipts in a junk drawer.

Saving for College 101

Here’s a crash course on saving for college.

View all videos