When you enter the world of investments and stocks, you must know that not all securities are listed on major exchanges. With that in mind, today we’ll talk what are over-the-counter stocks.

Some stocks, mainly from potential young and smaller companies, can be traded between two parties electronically.

This is basically how the OTC or Over-the-Counter market works.

Also, this type of outside financial trading includes more than stocks. It features bonds, ADRs, currencies, and derivatives, as well.

Although it is a risky market, it can offer some unique opportunities for those who find the right broker and do extensive research in order to avoid scams.

And today, you will learn everything that is about it. Keep reading to decide if it can be a good strategy for your investment goal.

Everyone knows the Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), major public stock markets. 

The great action of trading huge companies’ stocks occurs in these markets through the eyes of the public and high ethical standards and regulations.

Outside these markets, there is another way for trading stocks. And it is called OTC or Over-The-Counter.

When we talk about OTC stocks, we are referring to those financial instruments that are not listed on exchanges.  

OTC market happens in electronic networks between two parties through a dealer-broker acting like an intermediary.

Unlike what happens in the traditional stock market through major exchanges, parties secretly negotiate the stock price in the OTC market.

But it is not free from regulations. So, if you go after investing through the OTC market, make sure you find a licensed broker-dealer, which will be regulated by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Therefore, you know there will be protection and security.

Also, when we talk about those stocks traded at the OTC, they are sometimes called penny stocks since they are less expensive and are offered by small or larger companies that don’t qualify to be listed on big exchanges.

About the structure, there is the OTC Markets Group, where the majority of trades happen. This company features three tiers of exchanges that list OTC stocks:

On the other side of the OTC Markets Group, there is the Grey Market or Other OTC, where OTC securities are traded but, due to many reasons, are not quoted by broker-dealers.

At the same time, the OTC markets feature opportunities for those who see the potential in young companies that cannot yet list stocks on major exchanges; it can also be a risky place since it lacks reporting standards and barriers, especially on the Pink Sheets.

So, if you decide to invest in stocks traded in the OTC markets, make sure you do deep and vast research to avoid speculations and fraud.

Therefore, look for a reputable broker-dealer that uses a big online platform with some rules and regulations.

Also, choose a tiered plan that ensures protection and security for your trading like the Best Market (OTCQX) and Venture Market (OTCQB).

It is easy to buy and sell OTC or Over-the-Counter stocks. But, it would be best if you did robust research to find the best broker-dealer with a vast and regulated online platform for your confidence and safety.

Basically, most significant online brokers give you the opportunity to buy and sell OTC stocks through their platforms.

However, make sure you follow the step-by-step below before investing in it.

As for any type of investment, the first step is to define your goals according to your profile. If you don’t want to assume risk, OTC stocks are definitely not suitable for you.

Also, determine how much you want to invest. The budget you have must be defined prior so that you can go after the right investment for you.

After defining your goal and budget, it is time to search and find the perfect broker for you. Many major brokerage firms give you the opportunity to trade OTC stocks. But, fees vary. Therefore, understand it all before signing up.

After finding the appropriate broker, make sure you meet the requirements for trading OTC stocks through its online platform.

Finally, fund your account. 

It is best for you to buy OTC stocks at the Best Market (OTCQX) and Venture Market (OTCQB) since they offer stocks from startups and usually have high liquidity, large market caps, and solid backing.

Also, those markets follow some kind of regulations and reporting standards, providing you protection and security.

Last but not least, execute the trade. However, it is essential to consult your broker-dealer in order to follow the correct process.

When you place an order, you have some options to choose from. So, it is crucial to understand how it works before trading OTC stocks on the platform.