Navigating US Stock Trading in Hong Kong: A 2026 Guide to Webull

For Hong Kong investors, the US stock market offers a vast landscape of opportunities, from technology giants to emerging biotech firms. As the financial infrastructure in Hong Kong continues to evolve—marked by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) advancing the Uncertificated Securities Market (USM) regime in 2026 to digitize shareholdings—retail investors are increasingly seeking efficient, compliant, and cost-effective platforms to access global markets.

Webull Securities Limited ("Webull"), a licensed corporation under the SFC (CE No. BNG700), has established itself as a key facilitator for local investors aiming to diversify into US equities. This guide provides a professional overview of Webull’s US stock trading services, detailing the account lifecycle from opening to withdrawal, within the regulatory framework of 2026.

Regulatory Status and Safety

Webull Securities Limited is a licensed corporation regulated by the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). It holds the following licenses, ensuring it operates under strict compliance standards to protect investor interests:

•          Type 1: Dealing in Securities

•          Type 2: Dealing in Futures Contracts

•          Type 4: Advising on Securities

In line with the 2026 regulatory updates, including the operational transition towards the USM regime, Webull maintains robust digital infrastructure to support efficient trading and settlement. Globally, Webull serves over 25M global users*, reflecting its reliability and extensive market presence.

Core Services: The Cost Advantage

In a market where transaction costs can erode long-term returns, Webull differentiates itself through a transparent pricing structure. For US and Hong Kong stock trading, the platform offers a $0 Commission and $0 Platform Fee model. This structure is designed to lower the entry barrier for retail investors, allowing them to allocate more capital directly to their investments rather than administrative costs.

Key Features for US Market Access

•          Cost Efficiency: No commission and platform fees for trading US stocks and ETFs.

•          Extended Access: Support for 5x24 hours trading, enabling investors to react to market-moving news outside of standard US market hours.

•          Professional Data: Access to real-time market data (e.g.Level 2 quotes depending on eligibility) to facilitate informed decision-making.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Webull

Account Opening

Opening an account is a fully digital process, typically completed via the Webull App or official website.  

1.       Step 1: Download the Webull App or visit webull.hk.

2.       Step 2: Register with a mobile phone number.

3.       Step 3: Upload Identity Documents.

￮        Hong Kong Residents: HKID card.

￮        Non-Permanent Residents/Others: HKID plus a valid passport or other supporting documents.

4.       Step 4: Submit Address Proof. A bank statement or utility bill issued within the last 3 months is required.

5.       Step 5: Complete the risk disclosure and declaration steps.

6.       Step 6: Sign with a digital signature.

Fund Deposit

Webull supports multiple deposit methods to ensure liquidity is readily available for trading.

•          eDDA (Electronic Direct Debit Authorization): The fastest method. Once authorized, funds can be transferred instantly from your bank account to your Webull account via the app without logging into online banking.

•          FPS (Faster Payment System): Users can transfer funds using Webull’s FPS ID. A transfer proof (screenshot) must be uploaded via the app for verification.

•          Bank Transfer: Traditional transfers via local bank accounts. Users must upload the transaction advice for confirmation.

Executing a Trade

The trading interface is designed for both novice and advanced traders.

1.       Search: Enter the ticker symbol in the search bar.

2.       Analyze: Review the real-time chart, depth-of-market data, and news.

3.       Trade: Click the "Trade" button.

4.       Order Type: Select the order type (e.g., Limit Order for a specific price or Market Order for immediate execution).

5.       Session: Choose the trading session (Regular hours, Pre-market, or After-hours).

6.       Submit: Enter the quantity and confirm the order.

Fund Withdrawal

Withdrawing funds is a straightforward process linked to your verified bank account.

1.       Step 1: Navigate to the "Transfers" tab in the app.

2.       Step 2: Select "Withdraw".

3.       Step 3: Choose the linked bank account. If no account is linked, you must add a bank account that matches the name on your Webull securities account.

4.       Step 4: Enter the amount and submit. Funds typically arrive within 1-3 business days depending on the bank's processing time.

Fee Structure Comparison (As of 2026)

The following table compares the standard fee structures for US stock trading among major brokerage in Hong Kong.

*The minimum platform fee for U.S. options trades is US$1 per order.

Note: The fee data of other brokers was sourced from official figures as of September 11, 2025. Broker A and Broker B represent typical fee structures of other major tech brokerages in the market. Specific promotional offers from competitors may vary.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long is the settlement cycle for US trades?

A: Since May 2024, the standard for equity settlement in the US is T+1. This means the transaction settles one business day after the trade date, an improvement from the previous T+2 cycle.

Q: What are Circuit Breakers in the US market?

A: Circuit breakers are mechanisms to halt trading during excessive volatility. A Level 1 decline (7% drop in S&P 500) or Level 2 decline (13% drop) halts trading for 15 minutes if it occurs before 3:25 PM EST. A Level 3 decline (20% drop) halts trading for the remainder of the day.

Q: Why was my account charged American Depositary Receipt (ADR) fees?

A: ADR fees are custody fees charged by depository banks for inventorying non-US shares traded on US markets. These fees compensate the bank for services like registration and dividend payments, generally ranging from $0.01 to $0.03 per share.

Q: What is the difference between Call and Put options?

A: A call option grants the buyer the right to purchase the underlying security at a specified price. A Put option gives the buyer the right to sell the underlying security at a specified price.

Q: How can I keep my Webull account safe?

A: It is recommended to update your password every 3 to 6 months and avoid reusing Previous passwords. Additionally, enabling Two-Factor Authentication and biometric locks (Face ID or fingerprint) adds essential layers of protection.

DISCLOSURES

Zero fees means Webull charges no commission or platform fee for US and Hong Kong stocks. This promotional price has a time limit and will remain effective until further notice. The minimum platform fee for US options trades is US$1 per order. For more information on Webull's fees, please visit official website at https://www.webull.hk/en/pricing. About Account Opening Campaign, please refer to https://www.webull.hk/en/activity. Terms and conditions apply.  *Data source: internal statistical data of Webull Technologies Limited as of September 30, 2025. Other brokerage fee data are from official data as of September 11, 2025.

This content is not investment advice, does not constitute an offer, solicitation, opinion, or any guarantee of any investment product, nor does it constitute any investment recommendation. Investments involve risks, Investment products prices are subject to fluctuation and may rise or fall (including the possibility of loss of the capital invested). Past performance is not indicative of future results. Before making any investment decision, investors should carefully consider your own risk tolerance, financial situation, investment experience, and objectives, or consult professional investment advisors to make a rational decision.

References

•          https://www.webull.hk/en/pricing

•          https://www.webull.hk/en/us-stocks

•          https://www.webull.hk/en/help/faq/10813-What-are-the-trading-fees-on-Webull-Are-you-commission-free

•          https://www.sfc.hk/en/Rules-and-standards/Uncertificated-Securities-Market