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For years, Indian investors seeking exposure to global markets, whether buying Apple stock, investing in US ETF, or accessing European equities, had limited and complex options. The usual routes involved opening accounts with foreign brokers and dealing with complex compliance requirements, or investing through domestic international mutual funds that offered limited flexibility and often higher costs.
In 2026, NSE changed the process with the launch of NSE International Exchange (NSE IX), the global arm of National Stock Exchange of India. It allows Indian residents to directly invest in Global Stocks through NSE IX, with plans to expand access to 30+ global markets in the coming months.
In this guide, we will explain what is NSE IX is, how to invest in Global Stocks through NSE IX, NSE IX’s benefits, and everything.
What is NSE International Exchange (NSE IX)?
NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE). Established in 2017, it operates from GIFT City, India’s first International Financial Services Centre (IFSC).
The exchange functions under the regulation of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) and operates as a multi-asset international exchange. Traditionally, NSE IX has offered products such as GIFT Nifty futures (USD-denominated index derivatives), currency derivatives, commodities, and global investor access to Indian markets.
In late February 2026, NSE IX soft-launched its NSE IX Global Access platform, designed specifically for Indian residents and NRIs to invest in international equities and ETFs. The platform initially provides access to US-listed stocks, with plans to open 30+ global markets within the next few months.
The response has been strong. During its launch phase, the platform recorded 2,000 sign-ups on the very first day, even without any marketing campaign.
How to Open an Account for International Trading on NSE?
Here are some steps to invest in global stocks through NSE IX:
- Visit the official NSE IX Global Access website/app or a registered broker.
- Complete KYC and verification on the platform (via partner brokers or directly).
- Remit funds under LRS to the designated GIFT City account.
- Start trading US stocks/ETFs (Phase 1).
- Watch for updates on new markets added monthly.
Features & Benefits of NSE IX Global Access Platform
Here are some important features of NSE IX:
- Direct access to major US-listed stocks (e.g., Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Nvidia, Tesla) and ETFs. No need for a separate US brokerage or demat account—everything routes through India's regulated system.
- Over 30 global markets targeted in the next 3–6 months, including UK, Japan, parts of Europe (G7 nations), and more. Full rollout expected by end-2026.
- Buy fractions of expensive stocks (e.g., $50 worth of Nvidia) instead of full shares, perfect for small investors.
- Investments fall under RBI's Liberalised Remittance Scheme, up to USD 250,000 per financial year per person.
- Quick video KYC, digital process, no overseas demat needed. Funds remitted to a GIFT City-linked bank account.
- Reduce reliance on Indian markets, tap into global growth (tech, healthcare, etc.).
- Hedge against Nifty dips with US tech futures.
- Catch Asian opens or US closes, without sleep loss.
- Lower fees compared to some overseas brokers; no STT on international trades.
Future Outlook for NSE IX in 2026 and Beyond
As U.S. markets already live and 30+ global markets are expected to be added, NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) has the potential to become a major gateway for global investing from India.
The platform could boost cross-border investment participation, strengthen GIFT City’s position as a global financial hub, and offer a regulated alternative to traditional overseas brokerage routes.
As accessibility improves, NSE IX may play a key role in shaping how Indian investors diversify portfolios across international equities and global ETFs in the coming years.
NSE vs. NSE IX : Key Difference
Here are the difference between NSE and NSE IX:
| Feature | Domestic NSE (India) | NSE IX (GIFT City) |
|---|---|---|
| Currency | Indian Rupee (INR) | US Dollar (USD) |
| Trading Hours | 9:15 AM – 3:30 PM IST | Matches Global Markets (e.g., US 7:00 PM – 1:30 AM IST) |
| Stocks Available | Indian Companies | US, UK, Japan, Australia (Global) |
| Fractional Trading | Not Available | Available |
| Regulation | SEBI | IFSCA (International Authority) |
Final Words
NSE International Exchange (NSE IX) Global Access platform marks a major step in making global investing easier for Indian investors. Starting with U.S. stocks and expanding to 30+ markets, it enables diversification beyond domestic equities. Investors should start cautiously, understand global risks, and use this opportunity to build a more globally diversified portfolio.
FAQs on How to Trade on NSE IX
What is NSE IX?
NSE International Exchange is NSE's subsidiary at GIFT City, offering international multi-asset trading. The new Global Access platform lets Indians invest in global stocks/ETFs.
Can retail investors use it?
Yes, Indian residents and NRIs, under LRS (USD 250,000 annual limit). Fractional investing allowed.
Do I need a foreign broker or demat account?
No, everything handled digitally through NSE IX/GIFT City infrastructure.
Is it safe and regulated?
Fully regulated by IFSCA, compliant with RBI/FEMA. Backed by NSE's credibility.
How can I trade international stocks through the NSE platform?
Sign up through NSE IX Global Access portal or an IFSC-registered broker complete digital KYC, and transfer funds under RBI’s LRS to GIFT City. No separate demat is required. Investors can trade 50+ US stocks and ETFs during US market hours.
What financial instruments are traded on the Indian International Stock Exchange?
NSE IX offers trading in international equities, ETFs, derivatives like GIFT Nifty futures, currency derivatives, and other global financial instruments designed for cross-border investment access.
What documents are required to start international trading on the NSE?
Investors need PAN card, Aadhaar or passport for identity proof, address proof, bank account details, and completed KYC documents, along with compliance under RBI’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS).
Which international markets are accessible via the NSE exchange?
Initially, NSE IX provides access to U.S. equities and ETFs. The exchange plans to gradually expand access to more than 30 global markets, including Europe and Asia in 3–6 months.
Happy investing and thank you for reading!
Disclaimer:
This website content is only for educational purposes, not investment advice. Before making any investment, it’s important to do your own research and be fully informed. Investing in the stock market includes risks, and you should carefully read the Risk Disclosure documents before proceeding. Please remember that past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, and due to market fluctuations, your investment goals may not always be achieved.
