Practical Guide: Invest in Stocks in Argentina Without the Need for Large Capital

Investing in stocks in Argentina is no longer an exclusive privilege. The reality is that the local financial market has modernized significantly in recent years, opening doors to investors with modest budgets. But before starting, you need to answer two fundamental questions.

Two key decisions before investing

Where do you want to invest your money?

The first major fork is choosing between the Argentine market or international markets. Ideally, having access to both is best, because economic circumstances in Argentina can negatively affect local companies. In those times, having international options becomes a lifeline for your portfolio.

What is your style: active or passive?

Passive investments are relatively simple: deposit your money into an investment fund and wait for consistent returns, though more modest. This approach requires less time and experience. However, those seeking to maximize gains can adopt an active style, where they take full control of each operation and choose when to buy and sell.

Two main paths: Platforms vs. Banks

This is another decisive crossroads in your investment strategy.

Banks: The conservative route

Traditional banking entities focus on passive investments and long-term operations. They offer familiarity and ease of transferring money between your checking account and your investments, but generate lower returns. Additionally, they usually do not offer sophisticated tools like CFDs (Contracts for Difference), and their transaction fees tend to be around 1%.

Bank options include BBVA, which allows investing in domestic and international stocks with a 1.09% fee per transaction; Santander Río, with similar rates and access to international companies like Apple or Microsoft; Banco Macro, mainly focused on the Argentine market with variable fees; and Banco Galicia, which offers the most competitive fees in Argentina’s banking sector (0.62% per transaction), though its international reach is limited.

Investment platforms: The active route

Trading platforms are designed for active investors who want to maximize profitability and control. They allow you to choose exactly what to buy, when to do it, and when to sell. This opens opportunities for significantly higher gains, especially when using leverage.

Argentine platforms: Your local ally

If you prefer a nearby, locally regulated solution, Argentina has several innovative options.

IEB+: Democratic access

This app makes trading accessible even for beginners. Its basic plan ‘Rookie’ charges no commissions beyond the spread, although it is limited to 250,000 pesos per month. Higher plans allow unlimited operations starting from 2,500 pesos per month (only if you trade). The ‘Global Markets’ plan for $20 per month gives you access to US stocks and ETFs.

• Minimum balance: None
• Markets: Argentina and United States
• Instruments: Stocks, ETFs, CEDEARs, ADRs, bonds, options
• Main advantage: No minimum capital requirements

Front: Smart and personalized investing

Launched during the pandemic, specifically targeting first-time investors (they make up 75% of its user base). It offers personalized attention and the option to let the app invest automatically for you. Managed fund fees range from 1.5% to 3.1% annually, while direct stock transactions have a fee of 0.08%.

• Minimum balance: None
• Markets: Argentina and United States
• Instruments: Stocks, CEDEARs, investment funds
• Main advantage: Reduced fees and automatic management

Ualá: Total flexibility

Born in Argentina, Ualá removes entry barriers with a minimum investment of just $10 for trading and $1 for mutual funds. You can sell starting from $5. It offers both passive investing and direct access to international companies like Apple or Google through CEDEARs.

• Minimum balance: $10 USD for trading, $1 USD for funds
• Markets: Argentina and United States
• Instruments: Stocks, CEDEARs, investment funds
• Main advantage: Super affordable entry and flexibility

Selection strategy: Which to choose?

For passive and conservative investors:

If you seek safe but modest returns, local apps like Front or Ualá are excellent allies. Bank investment funds are also good options. They require less dedication and allow you to invest exclusively in the Argentine market if you wish. Returns will be limited, but so will the risk.

For active investors aiming to multiply gains:

If your goal is to significantly boost your profits by accessing international markets, you need platforms with global reach that offer advanced tools. These allow you to operate in multiple markets, including cryptocurrencies and commodities, with greater flexibility and performance potential.

How to start your journey as an investor in Argentina

Step 1: Define your profile

Do you have market experience? How much time can you dedicate? Are you seeking security or maximum profitability? Your answers will determine everything else.

Step 2: Choose your platform

• For passive and simple investing: consider local platforms like Ualá or Front
• For greater control and international access: explore options offering CEDEARs
• For access to multiple markets: you need specialized trading platforms

Step 3: Start modestly

Take advantage of low minimum amounts. Many platforms allow starting with $1-$10. Use this initial period to learn and build confidence before increasing your investment.

The current landscape of investing in stocks in Argentina

What once seemed complicated due to regulatory and economic barriers is now more accessible. You have options both for those seeking a passive, calm investment and for those who want to stay actively engaged in the markets.

Argentine platforms offer the advantage of regulatory proximity and local support, as well as growing access to international markets through instruments like CEDEARs. You don’t need to be a millionaire to start: with just a few dollars, you can take your first steps in the stock markets. The key is to choose the right strategy according to your profile and financial goals.