How do i go about investing in stocks outside the US and which country's stock is most promising?
Answers: There are basically three ways: Mutual funds, ETFs, and ADRs. ADRs (American Depository Receipts) are foreign stocks that are listed on a US exchange.
For mutual funds: check out Vanguard:
http://www.vanguard.com
For ETFs: check out ISHARES
http://www.ishares.com/home.htm
Vanguard also offers ETF.
For ADRs: check out ADR.com for a listing of available ADRs.
http://www.adr.com/
Currently, I like EWZ. It is an ETF for Brazil. They are down around 20% which I view as a good entry point. But it could easily go down another 20%! Like many emerging markets it is volatile and you have to be able to ride out the dips.
With any foreign investment you should be familiar with that countries economic and political outlook in addition to the particular stock. Or stick with a mutual fund and let them monitor the country.
ETF's are a terrific way to invest internationally. They trade as stocks so any broker can buy them. See www.etfconnect.com for information on ETF's. Asia generally has outperformed the US as well as the BRIC countries ( Brazil, Russia, India, China). Emerging markets have also done exceeding well over the past 2+ years. You could look at something like EPP, iShares Pacific ex-Japan or ADRA, BLDRS Asia 50 Index Fund. Whatever you decide to do, try to have at least 1-3 year time horizon because all markets could have a rough spell in the near future and you do want to stay with regions that are growing faster than the US.
I enjoy 1000$ to invest-long term(3-5yrs). what one stock should i progress next to?
ignore any risksAnswers: Jump on MELI right immediately while prices have dipped...should spring right back up. ( Argentinian E-bay...risky, but a rocket when it climbs.)
try http://www.goldenbullstocks.com
How can i buy shares contained by companies floated on the chinese and hong kong stock market?
I have a UK ridge account but want to invest contained by foreign stock marketsAnswers: You can buy A programmed shares of Chinese companies in Hong Kong. My direction would be not to China - is in the 'windy west' stage so far as stock market investment is concerned.
See: http://www.hkex.com.hk/tradinfo.htm
Find out who your local stockbroker is and go and get their advice..