What are fractional shares and can I trade them with CommSec?
What are fractional shares?
- Fractional shares allow you to invest small amounts into companies in which you may not be able to afford the full share price.
- Fractional shares make it easier for you to diversify your portfolio by allowing you to trade small portions of an equities stock in various companies.
- When you own a fractional share, we will recognise your entitlement to that fraction. The fractional shares may be held separately from full shares held in your International Shares Account.
How do I trade fractional shares with CommSec?
Fractional orders can be placed the same way as a normal order, either on the CommSec website or Mobile App. Follow the steps below to place a fractional shares order:
- Log into CommSec
- Navigate to Portfolio, and access your International Shares Account
- Click on Trade > Order Ticket
- Enter the trade details such as the transaction, symbol, quantity, order type and duration
- Ensure you input either the Quantity or the Value of the trade as a fraction of either a full share, for example, 0.5, or a fraction of the share price, for example, $50 order of a $150 share
- Click on Preview Order. You will receive a fractional shares order confirmation
- Confirm your order details are correct, then click on Transmit Order
- You can view your order status by navigating to Trade > Orders & Trades
Your trade confirmation will generally be available within 24 hours of your trade executing. You can view trade confirmations by navigating to Performance & Reports > Default Statements > Trade Confirmations.
Can I transfer my fractional shares out of CommSec?
No, unfortunately we can't transfer fractional shares out of CommSec. If you wish to transfer shares out of your International Shares Account at any time, you will be required to sell the fractional component of your holding before the transfer can be affected.
If you do not sell your fractional shares before initiating a transfer, we will sell them on your behalf and credit the sale proceeds directly to your nominated bank account or transfer the balance alongside any shares you may have, to your receiving broker.
We're here to help
If you require further assistance, please refer to our International Client Guide or contact our International Desk on 1300 361 170 or 02 8397 1250 if calling from outside Australia (open 24 hours, U.S. trading days).
