ADR vs. GDR: Know the Difference

By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 23, 2024

An ADR (American Depositary Receipt) allows U.S. investors to buy shares in foreign companies, while a GDR (Global Depositary Receipt) lets investors buy shares globally.

ADR vs. GDR

Key Differences

An ADR is a financial instrument used by U.S. investors to purchase shares in foreign companies, providing an easier way to invest in overseas markets. Conversely, a GDR is a similar instrument used globally, allowing investors from various countries to invest in foreign companies.

Jan 23, 2024

ADRs are typically traded on U.S. stock exchanges and are denominated in U.S. dollars, making them accessible to American investors. GDRs are traded on multiple international stock exchanges, and can be denominated in various currencies, broadening their appeal to a global investor base.

Jan 23, 2024

The primary purpose of an ADR is to facilitate the trading of foreign stocks in the United States, simplifying the process for U.S. investors. GDRs serve a similar purpose but on a global scale, allowing for cross-border investments with relative ease.

Jan 23, 2024

Each ADR represents one or more shares of a foreign stock or a fraction of a share. In contrast, each GDR represents a share of a foreign company's stock, and the specifics can vary based on the issuing company and the market.

Jan 23, 2024

While ADRs are governed primarily by U.S. market regulations and laws, GDRs are subject to the regulatory requirements of multiple countries, depending on where they are traded.

Jan 23, 2024

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Comparison Chart

Trading Location

Primarily in U.S. stock exchanges

Multiple international stock exchanges

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Currency

Denominated in U.S. dollars

Can be denominated in various currencies

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Investor Base

U.S. investors

Global investors

Jan 23, 2024

Regulatory Compliance

U.S. market regulations

Regulations of multiple countries

Jan 23, 2024

Purpose

Facilitates investment in foreign stocks by U.S. investors

Facilitates global investment in foreign stocks

Jan 23, 2024

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ADR and GDR Definitions

ADR

A financial vehicle enabling American investors to hold shares in non-U.S. companies.

ADRs simplify the process of investing in foreign markets.

Jan 08, 2024

GDR

A tool for global investors to diversify their portfolio with foreign stocks.

GDRs make it straightforward to own foreign stocks without currency exchange concerns.

Jan 08, 2024

ADR

A certificate representing a specified number of shares in a foreign stock for U.S. investors.

He bought ADRs of a European tech firm to diversify his portfolio.

Jan 08, 2024

GDR

A certificate facilitating cross-border investments, traded on international stock exchanges.

His portfolio includes GDRs from several Asian and European companies.

Jan 08, 2024

ADR

A U.S. dollar-denominated form of equity ownership in a foreign corporation.

Her ADR holdings represent a significant part of her international investments.

Jan 08, 2024

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GDR

A vehicle for foreign companies to attract investment from international markets.

The company issued GDRs to expand its investor base globally.

Jan 08, 2024

ADR

A mechanism for U.S. investors to gain exposure to foreign equities without dealing with foreign exchange risks.

The company's ADR made it easier for U.S. investors to participate in its growth.

Jan 08, 2024

GDR

A mechanism for investors worldwide to invest in foreign equities across various countries.

GDRs broaden the investment horizon beyond domestic markets.

Jan 08, 2024

ADR

A tool for trading foreign stocks in U.S. markets under U.S. trading rules.

Through ADRs, he could trade shares of the foreign company as easily as any U.S. stock.

Jan 08, 2024

GDR

A financial instrument used globally to own shares in foreign companies.

Investing in GDRs allowed her to tap into emerging markets easily.

Jan 08, 2024

Repeatedly Asked Queries

What does ADR stand for?

American Depositary Receipt.

Jan 23, 2024

Are ADRs traded in U.S. dollars?

Yes, ADRs are traded in U.S. dollars.

Jan 23, 2024

Do ADRs reflect direct ownership of the foreign stock?

Yes, they represent ownership in the foreign company.

Jan 23, 2024

Can ADRs be bought by non-U.S. investors?

Primarily, they are intended for U.S. investors.

Jan 23, 2024

Can GDRs be denominated in different currencies?

Yes, they can be in various currencies.

Jan 23, 2024

What does GDR stand for?

Global Depositary Receipt.

Jan 23, 2024

Are GDRs available to investors worldwide?

Yes, GDRs target global investors.

Jan 23, 2024

What regulatory standards do ADRs follow?

ADRs are subject to U.S. market regulations.

Jan 23, 2024

Do GDRs represent direct ownership in the issuing company?

Yes, they represent a stake in the foreign company.

Jan 23, 2024

What is the primary use of an ADR?

To allow U.S. investors to buy shares in foreign companies.

Jan 23, 2024

Are GDRs subject to a single country's regulations?

No, they adhere to regulations of multiple countries.

Jan 23, 2024

How do ADRs handle dividend payments?

Dividends are usually paid in U.S. dollars.

Jan 23, 2024

Are GDRs a good way to diversify an investment portfolio?

Yes, they provide access to foreign markets.

Jan 23, 2024

Can investors trade ADRs like regular stocks?

Yes, ADRs can be traded like any U.S. stock.

Jan 23, 2024

Where are GDRs traded?

On multiple international stock exchanges.

Jan 23, 2024

Can a company issue both ADRs and GDRs?

Yes, a company can issue both for different markets.

Jan 23, 2024

Why would a company issue a GDR?

To attract international investors.

Jan 23, 2024

What is the benefit of investing in GDRs?

They offer global investment opportunities with ease.

Jan 23, 2024

Can ADRs be converted into actual shares?

Yes, they can be converted into underlying shares.

Jan 23, 2024

How do ADRs affect foreign exchange risk?

They mitigate forex risk by trading in U.S. dollars.

Jan 23, 2024

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ADR vs. GDR

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About Author

Written by

Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

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