Have you ever wondered how building wealth isn’t just about what’s happening close to home, but also about reaching out into the world?
This article introduces the basics of international investing and how looking beyond your own borders can be the start of a powerful wealth-building journey.
By the time you read this, I should be in Zimbabwe enjoying precious family time, but I wanted you to have something valuable to think about and read while I am away.
And remember—make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Streetwise Economics, for more simple guides and updates.
Book a 1:1 coaching session on trading and investing at www.streetwiseeconomics.com. Also, gentle reminder as usual, this article is for educational purposes only and is not investment advice.
Many people invest only in their home country, thinking it’s safer or easier.
But what if your own economy is not doing well? Or if the local currency suddenly loses a lot of value?
These are real questions for Zimbabweans. Expanding to international investments in places like the US and Canada can help protect and grow wealth even when things at home are uncertain.
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For example, the American and Canadian stock markets have millions of investors worldwide.
These markets offer access to some of the world’s most successful, innovative companies—businesses you know and use every day, like Apple, Google, Amazon, and Shopify.
By putting a portion of your money in these markets, you reduce the chance that local economic problems wipe out your investments.
Think of Elon Musk, founder of Tesla, SpaceX, and many other businesses. Musk is not American by birth—he was born in South Africa and moved around the world to build his dreams.
Today, he is the world’s richest person, not because he stayed local, but because he thought big and aimed for global impact.
Just this year, Tesla’s board proposed a compensation package for Elon Musk that could reach nearly US$1 trillion dollars—the largest in corporate history. But Musk will only receive this payout if Tesla achieves extraordinary targets over the coming years: The company must grow its value to over US$8.5 trillion and meet numerous operational goals, like delivering millions of electric vehicles and leading in AI and robotics technology.
This case shows why companies, investors, and leaders see international growth as the way to success as per this CNBC report.
International investing means putting your money into stocks, bonds, real estate, or funds that are based outside your home country. There are two simple ways beginners can invest globally:
Mutual funds & ETFs (exchange-traded funds): These are investment funds that hold a mix of foreign companies. By buying a single fund, you essentially own a small slice of many businesses around the world. Personally, I’m not a big fan of mutual funds because of the fees they charge. I’m fortunate to be able to manage my own portfolio through self-directed investing—but not everyone has that option.
Individual stocks: Platforms now make it fairly easy to buy shares of companies listed on the US or Canadian stock exchanges, even for international investors.
The most important reasons to spread your investments globally are:
Diversification: If Zimbabwe’s economy is struggling, global stocks might still be doing well. Spreading your investments helps protect your money from shocks in any one place.
Access to winners: Many world-changing companies are not local. By going international, you become a part-owner of the world’s best businesses.
Better currency protection: If the local currency loses value, your international investments (in US dollars or Canadian dollars) are likely to keep their worth better.
Potential for more growth: Some global markets grow faster than mature economies. For example, US tech stocks have seen massive growth over the past decade.
Getting started: Simple steps to international investing
Understand the basics: If you know how to buy local stocks, you’re already halfway there. The main difference is the country and exchange.
Choose a broker: Many online brokers allow foreigners to open investment accounts for US or Canadian stocks. Look for one with good investor protection, low fees, and easy access.
Start small: Even small amounts add up over time. Consider putting a little into a global ETF—which automatically spreads your money across hundreds of global companies.
Think long-term: The stories of international success, like Elon Musk and Tesla, took years to develop. Don’t expect overnight success. Growth needs time, patience, and sticking to your plan.
Watch for costs: Some brokers and banks charge extra for international accounts. Read all the rules, and ask about fees before you start.
Keep learning: The world of investing is large and always changing. Subscribe to Streetwise Economics on YouTube here for practical knowledge, tips, and new ideas.
Real benefits for Zimbabweans
Protection against local risks: If inflation surges or the Zimbabwean dollar loses value, international holdings remain safer.
Learning from global leaders: Watching companies like Tesla and leaders like Musk, Zimbabwean investors can see how cross-border strategies grow real wealth.
Opportunities to build networks: Investing globally can connect you with new people, information, and technology.
Caution: What to watch out for
International investing comes with its own challenges:
Currency risk: If the Zimbabwe dollar or South African rand drops compared to the US or Canadian dollar, you win. But if it rises, your returns in local terms might fall.
Political risk: Countries can change their rules for foreigners at any time.
Research needed: Don’t just buy what’s popular. Learn about the companies and funds you choose.
Back to Elon Musk: A wealth-building mindset
Remember, Elon Musk didn’t become successful by staying in one place. He left South Africa, built companies in Canada, and finally reached the US. Each step expanded his world view, connections, and opportunities. Today, his compensation is measured not in millions, but in trillions of dollars, because he is willing to chase growth wherever it can be found—across borders and continents.
Final word: Your turn to think global
You do not have to be a billionaire like Musk to benefit from thinking beyond your borders. With small, smart steps, Zimbabweans can start building a global portfolio right now. The key is to get started, learn as you go, and never stop expanding your horizons.
Before you go, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Streetwise Economics—your free source for beginner-friendly investing education. And if you want to really kickstart your journey, please book a personal 1:1 coaching session at www.streetwiseeconomics.com.
Happy investing, and enjoy thinking globally while I enjoy family time here in Zimbabwe! Until next time, trade and invest wisely and may the markets be on your side.
*Isaac Jonas is an economist based in Canada and principal consultant at Streetwise Economics. He is also a retail investor, retail trader and content creator, focusing mainly on the US and Canadian capital markets. He regularly shares insights via his social media handles and YouTube Channel (Streetwise Economics). His website is www.streetwiseeconomics.com and can be reachable on [email protected]. Disclaimer: This article reflects data and market conditions as of July 30, 2025. Always consider your personal circumstances and risk tolerance before acting on any financial information. Let’s keep learning and adapting—together.
