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Why invest in US shares and ETFs through Kernel?

Lovelyn avatar
Written by Lovelyn
Updated yesterday

We understand that investing in global markets like the US should be straightforward and transparent. That's why we've built Kernel's Shares and ETFs specifically for New Zealand investors. Hereโ€™s what makes our service a smart choice:

Invest Effortlessly in NZ Dollars

  • Trade Directly in NZD: No need to manage separate foreign currency accounts. Buy and sell US shares using your New Zealand dollars.

  • Clear NZD Values: See the real-time value of your US investments clearly displayed in NZD, the currency that matters most to you.

  • Simplified Decisions: Focus on your investment choices without constantly calculating exchange rates.

  • True Performance Tracking: Understand your actual returns, including the impact of currency movements, all shown in NZD.

Manage Everything in One Place

  • Single Sign-On: Access all your Kernel investments โ€“ both funds and direct US shares โ€“ with just one login.

  • Unified Dashboard: Get a complete overview of your portfolio on a single, easy-to-understand dashboard.

  • One Convenient Wallet: Use one central wallet for your deposits and withdrawals in Funds, Shares and ETFs, and Smart Saver.

  • Consolidated Portfolio View: See your entire investment picture, combining your funds and shares seamlessly.

Transparent and Competitive Pricing

  • Straightforward Fees: Our pricing is clear and easy to understand, with no hidden charges.

  • NZD Cost Clarity: You'll always see the total cost in New Zealand dollars before you confirm any trade.

  • Flexible Subscription Tiers: Choose a plan that best suits your investment frequency and style.

  • $1 Minimum Investment: Get started with US shares with as little as $1.

Accessible, Local Support

  • NZ-Based Team: Our knowledgeable customer service team is based right here in New Zealand and available during local business hours.

  • Local Expertise: We understand the New Zealand investment landscape and regulations.

  • Relevant Resources: Access educational content and market insights specifically tailored for NZ investors.

Simplified Tax Reporting

  • Comprehensive Tax Statements: Receive clear, detailed annual statements designed for NZ tax requirements.

  • FIF Calculations Included: We handle the Foreign Investment Fund (FIF) income calculations for your US holdings where applicable.

  • Clear Dividend Reporting: Your statements clearly show dividends received and any US withholding tax paid.

  • NZ Tax Integration: Our reporting is designed to make completing your NZ tax return easier.

Robust Security You Can Trust

  • Licensed Provider: Kernel is a licensed Financial Advice Provider in New Zealand.

  • Regulated US Partner: Your US trades are executed through Alpaca Securities LLC, a US-regulated broker-dealer.

  • Asset Protection: Your assets are held securely and segregated for your protection.

  • Continuous Monitoring: We conduct regular security audits and monitor our systems diligently.

  • Secure Platform: Your data and transactions are protected using robust encryption.

By bringing these elements together, Kernel's Shares and ETFs offers a sophisticated yet user-friendly platform for accessing US markets. We provide the tools, transparency, and support to help you invest internationally with confidence, whether you're just beginning or expanding your existing portfolio.

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