How can Indian investors compare currency costs on US share purchases?
Our answer
Ask for the executable exchange rate and the total INR debited for a fixed USD amount, then add transfer, brokerage, custody and eventual conversion costs. Compare the quote at the same time across platforms. An advertised zero commission does not settle the currency cost.
Exchange fees and currency risk
A low conversion charge reduces a transaction cost. It does not protect the INR value of a USD position from exchange-rate movements.
Review both directions
Check the rate and fixed costs when you fund the account and again when you withdraw. A small percentage spread can matter when applied to both legs.