Investors looking to trade foreign stocks in the U.S. often encounter OTC tickers ending in “Y” or “F”. These symbols indicate whether the stock is an American Depositary Receipt (ADR) or a foreign ordinary share. Understanding the difference is crucial for making informed investment decisions.
What Are OTC Stocks?
Over-the-counter (OTC) stocks are securities that trade outside major exchanges like the NYSE or NASDAQ. Many foreign companies list their shares on the OTC market, allowing U.S. investors to gain exposure without trading directly on international exchanges.
OTC tickers ending in “Y” or “F” help investors distinguish between two different types of listings:
OTC Tickers Ending in “Y”: American Depositary Receipts (ADRs)
An OTC ticker ending in “Y” represents an American Depositary Receipt (ADR). ADRs are issued by U.S. banks and represent shares of a foreign company, making it easier for American investors to trade international stocks.
Key Features of “Y” Tickers (ADRs):
✔ Trade in U.S. Dollars (USD) – ADRs eliminate the need to deal with foreign currencies.
✔ Listed by U.S. Banks – A depositary bank holds the foreign shares and issues ADRs to investors.
✔ Higher Liquidity – ADRs typically have more trading volume than foreign ordinary shares.
✔ Dividends Paid in USD – Any dividends are converted into U.S. dollars by the bank.
✔ Share Ratio May Differ – One ADR may represent multiple foreign shares (e.g., 1 ADR = 2 ordinary shares).
Example of a “Y” Ticker:
- Nestlé ADR (NSRGY) – A U.S.-traded ADR representing Nestlé’s Swiss shares.
OTC Tickers Ending in “F”: Foreign Ordinary Shares
An OTC ticker ending in “F” represents a foreign ordinary share. These are not ADRs—instead, they are the actual shares of a foreign company, trading directly in the U.S. OTC market.
Key Features of “F” Tickers (Foreign Ordinary Shares):
✔ Trade in Local Currency – Prices often reflect the stock’s home market value.
✔ Lower Liquidity – These shares typically trade less frequently than ADRs.
✔ No U.S. Bank Involvement – The shares are not converted into ADRs.
✔ Dividends in Local Currency – Investors may need to deal with foreign tax implications.
✔ 1:1 Share Ratio – Unlike ADRs, “F” shares usually have the same price and value as the original stock.
Example of an “F” Ticker:
- Nestlé Ordinary Share (NSRGF) – The direct foreign stock, not an ADR.
Key Differences: ADRs (“Y”) vs. Foreign Shares (“F”)
| Feature | “Y” Ticker (ADR) | “F” Ticker (Foreign Ordinary Share) |
| Type | U.S.-issued depositary receipt | Directly traded foreign stock |
| Currency | U.S. Dollars (USD) | Trade in USD but may convert from local currency |
| Issued By | U.S. bank | No bank involvement |
| Liquidity | Higher | Lower |
| Share Ratio | May differ (e.g., 1 ADR = 2 shares) | 1:1 with local shares |
Which One Should You Buy?
- If you prefer easier access, U.S. dollar transactions, and higher liquidity, ADRs (“Y” tickers) are the better option.
- If you want direct ownership of foreign stocks and don’t mind currency conversions, foreign ordinary shares (“F” tickers) may be a good choice.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the differences between “Y” and “F” OTC tickers can help investors make better decisions when trading foreign stocks in the U.S. market. ADRs (Y-tickers) offer convenience, while foreign ordinary shares (F-tickers) provide direct international exposure.