Unlocking Global Growth: Your Guide to the Best International Stocks to Buy in 2025

Thinking about where to put your money in 2025? A lot of investors are looking beyond the U.S. this year, and for good reason. International markets are showing some serious strength, and there are some really interesting opportunities out there. We’re going to break down why global stocks might be a smart move and highlight some of the best international stocks to buy in 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Global stocks have been outperforming U.S. markets in 2025, driven by better valuations and easing financial conditions abroad.
• While U.S. markets face headwinds like trade policy uncertainty, international markets present attractive growth prospects, especially in emerging economies like China, Brazil, and India.
• The tech sector is seeing global shifts, with AI advancements creating new opportunities and challenges for companies worldwide.
• Indexes like the MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI) ex U.S. and the MSCI EAFE ETF (EFA) show strong performance, indicating a potential continued trend of international stock leadership.
• Identifying the best international stocks to buy in 2025 involves looking at companies with solid growth potential, especially in tech, and considering factors like lower expenses and diversified portfolios.

1. Global Stocks Outperform U.S. in 2025

It’s been a bit of a surprise this year, but stocks outside the U.S. have really been pulling ahead. For a while there, it felt like American companies could do no wrong, but things are shifting. Several factors seem to be at play, making international markets look more attractive right now.

One big reason is that valuations overseas are looking pretty good. Companies in other countries aren’t as expensive as some of the big names here in the States. Plus, there’s a feeling that financial conditions might loosen up globally, and some governments are stepping in with economic support. The U.S. dollar has also weakened a bit, which makes foreign investments cheaper for those holding dollars.

On the flip side, there are some worries about growth slowing down here at home. Trade policy has been a bit uncertain, and some folks are questioning if the U.S. will keep its usual edge. This has pushed investors to look elsewhere.

Here’s a quick look at how some key international indexes have been doing:

• MSCI ACWI ex U.S. Index: Up 7.6% year-to-date (as of March 26, 2025).
• MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSE:EFA): Up 9.5% year-to-date (as of March 26, 2025).

Both of these are getting close to their all-time highs. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 has actually dipped into correction territory recently. It’s a noticeable change from the usual story where U.S. stocks lead the pack.

2. Top 10 High Growth Tech Companies Globally

Alright, so we’ve seen how global stocks are doing their thing this year, and some tech companies outside the usual suspects are really making waves. It’s not just about the big names anymore; there are some seriously interesting players out there showing impressive growth.

When we look for these high-growth tech companies, we’re checking a few things. We want to see companies that are expanding their sales quickly, and importantly, growing their profits too. It’s also about how well they’re positioned for the future, especially with all the buzz around things like AI.

Here’s a look at some companies that have been catching our eye:

• Giant Network Group: Showing solid growth in both revenue and earnings.
• Suzhou TFC Optical Communication: Another strong performer with good numbers.
• Pharma Mar: This one stands out with particularly strong earnings growth.
• Fositek: Demonstrating impressive revenue and profit expansion.
• Hacksaw: Consistent growth in both key areas.
• Gold Circuit Electronics: Steady gains in sales and profits.
• eWeLLLtd: Holding its own with decent growth.
• KebNi: A standout for its exceptional earnings growth.
• CD Projekt: Posting strong figures for revenue and profit.
• CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings: This company is on fire with massive revenue and earnings growth.

It’s worth remembering that this is just a snapshot. The tech world moves fast, and what looks good today could change tomorrow. But these companies are definitely worth keeping an eye on if you’re looking for global tech opportunities.

3. Emerging Markets: A Look at China, Brazil, and India

Okay, so we’ve been talking a lot about how global stocks are doing their thing this year, outshining the U.S. for a bit. Now, let’s zero in on a few places that used to be a bit of a headache for investors but are starting to look interesting again: China, Brazil, and India. These are the big players in the emerging markets scene, and frankly, they’ve been kind of a tough spot to put your money in over the last decade. But here’s the thing – things are shifting.

Right now, stocks in these countries are trading at much lower prices compared to their earnings than what you see in the U.S. Think of it like getting a good deal at a store. Some big money managers are forecasting that these emerging market stocks could actually bring in a decent return over the next ten years, even after you account for inflation. We’re talking about numbers like 7.9% annually, which sounds pretty good when you compare it to the possibility of U.S. growth stocks actually losing a bit of value.

But, and this is a big ‘but’, ’emerging’ also kind of means ‘risky’. We’ve seen markets that looked cheap before, like Russia’s, end up going through a rough patch and basically disappearing from the investment world. So, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Many funds that invest in these areas have a pretty big chunk of their money tied up in China. And, well, investing in an economy that’s run by a leader you might not agree with can be a tough pill to swallow for some. It makes you wonder why you looked overseas in the first place.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to keep in mind:

• Valuation: Stocks in China, Brazil, and India are currently cheaper relative to their earnings than U.S. stocks.
• Potential Returns: Some forecasts suggest emerging markets could offer higher returns over the next decade compared to U.S. growth stocks.
• Risks: These markets come with higher volatility and political uncertainty, as seen with past examples like Russia.
• Diversification: While many funds are heavily weighted towards China, it’s worth looking for options that offer broader exposure or specific country focuses if you’re concerned about that concentration.

So, while the numbers might look appealing, it’s super important to remember that these markets aren’t for the faint of heart. You’ve got to do your homework and understand the risks involved before jumping in.

4. U.S. Equity Markets Are Underperforming This Year

It’s been a bit of a surprise, but the U.S. stock market hasn’t been the star performer this year. For a while there, it felt like American companies could do no wrong, especially the big tech players. But lately, things have shifted. We’re seeing international markets actually pull ahead, which is a change of pace from what many of us have gotten used to.

What’s behind this change? A few things seem to be at play. For starters, there’s been a lot of spending on artificial intelligence by U.S. tech firms. While that seemed like the right move, some newer, more efficient AI models popping up elsewhere have made investors question if all that spending was really necessary. It’s a bit like buying the most expensive tool when a simpler one would do the job just fine.

Here’s a quick look at how some key indexes have been doing:

• MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI) ex U.S.: Up 7.6% year-to-date.
• MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSE:EFA): Up 9.5% year-to-date.
• S&P 500: Recently fell into correction territory.

This shift isn’t just about one or two companies; it’s a broader trend. Factors like more attractive prices overseas, the possibility of easier money policies globally, and a weaker U.S. dollar have all helped international stocks gain ground. Plus, worries about slower growth here at home and trade policy questions have added to the move abroad. It makes you wonder if the days of American exceptionalism in the market are taking a pause. While the U.S. economy is still showing strength, with GDP expected to grow faster than the Eurozone, and the job market remains solid, the stock market’s performance tells a different story right now. We’re seeing a rotation, and it’s worth paying attention to global demand for U.S. stocks to see how it evolves.

5. Can Global Stocks Continue to Outperform?

So, the big question on everyone’s mind is whether this international stock party can keep going. It’s easy to get excited when you see other markets doing better than what you’re used to, right?

Looking back, when international markets have had a strong first quarter, like they have this year, history suggests there’s a decent chance they’ll keep that momentum. Since 1988, there have been about a dozen times when the MSCI ACWI ex U.S. index really took off in the first three months of the year. In those instances, it tended to keep beating the S&P 500 for the rest of the year, usually with positive returns.

Here’s a quick look at how that has played out:

• Strong Q1 International Performance: The MSCI ACWI ex U.S. has outperformed the S&P 500 by over 10% year-to-date as of late March 2025. This is a pretty significant gap.
• Historical Precedent: In past years where international stocks had a strong Q1, they often continued to do well through Q4.
• Factors to Watch: Things like global economic growth picking up, interest rates stabilizing in other regions, and the U.S. dollar’s value all play a role.

Of course, it’s not a sure thing. The U.S. market still has its strengths. The American economy is expected to grow faster than the Eurozone, and the job market here is pretty solid. Plus, U.S. companies are still forecast to grow their earnings pretty well. But with the dollar weakening and other countries showing signs of life, it’s definitely worth keeping an eye on international opportunities. It feels like there’s a real shift happening, and it’s not just a blip.

6. The Trump Economy and International Funds

So, the big question on everyone’s mind lately is how the current economic climate, especially with the

7. Identifying Promising High-Growth Tech Stocks

So, how do we actually find those tech companies that are poised for big things in 2025, especially when looking beyond the usual suspects? It’s not just about picking the flashiest name; it’s about digging a bit deeper. We’re looking for companies that are really good at what they do, showing solid growth in both their sales and how much money they’re making.

Think about companies that are making smart moves in areas like artificial intelligence. The tech world is always shifting, and those who can adapt and innovate are the ones who tend to do well. It’s about spotting the ones that aren’t just keeping up but are actually leading the charge.

Here are a few things to keep an eye on:

• Strong Revenue and Earnings Growth: Look for companies with a consistent track record of increasing their sales and profits. This shows they have a product or service people want and are willing to pay for.
• Innovation and Adaptability: Are they investing in new technologies? Can they pivot when the market changes? Companies that are ahead of the curve often have a competitive edge.
• Sound Financial Health: Beyond just growth numbers, check their balance sheets. Are they managing their debt well? Do they have enough cash to keep growing?
• Market Position: Where do they stand in their industry? Are they a leader, or are they carving out a niche? Sometimes, smaller companies with a strong focus can be great investments.

For example, companies like Giant Network Group have shown impressive growth percentages, indicating they’re capturing market share and delivering results. It’s these kinds of metrics that help paint a picture of a company’s potential.

It’s also wise to look at analyst reports and management’s own outlook. When both seem optimistic, it can be a good sign. But remember, this is just part of the puzzle. We also want to see companies that are potentially undervalued, meaning their stock price doesn’t quite reflect their true worth yet. Finding that sweet spot takes a bit of research, but the payoff can be significant.

8. Artificial Intelligence and Global Tech Sector Shifts

It feels like artificial intelligence is everywhere these days, right? We’ve seen a huge push in AI development, especially in the U.S., with companies spending a lot on new tech. For a while there, it seemed like the only way to get ahead was to pour money into AI infrastructure. But things are starting to shift.

Lately, we’re seeing new AI models pop up from outside the U.S., like those coming out of China. These new models are apparently more efficient, which means they might not cost as much to build or run. This could change the game for a lot of companies. The big question now is whether all that spending on AI in the U.S. was really necessary, or if these newer, leaner models will take the lead.

This shift could mean a few things for global tech:

• Changing Investment Focus: Investors might start looking at companies that can adapt to these more cost-effective AI solutions, rather than just those that spent the most upfront.
• New Market Leaders: Companies outside the U.S. that are developing these efficient AI models could become major players.
• Impact on Existing Giants: Big tech companies that invested heavily might need to adjust their strategies to stay competitive.

It’s a dynamic situation, and how these AI developments play out globally will definitely be something to watch in 2025.

9. The MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI) ex U.S.

So, what exactly is the MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI) ex U.S.? Think of it as a big snapshot of the stock market, but it leaves out all the companies based in the United States. It’s designed to show how stocks are doing in developed and emerging markets all over the world, minus the U.S. This year, it’s been doing pretty well, actually outperforming the S&P 500.

Why is this happening? Well, a few things are at play. For starters, international markets might just be looking more attractive right now. Valuations could be better, and there’s a feeling that global financial conditions might ease up a bit, plus some countries are offering fiscal support. The U.S. dollar also taking a bit of a dip helps make foreign investments look more appealing.

Here’s a quick look at how it’s been stacking up:

• ACWI ex U.S. Performance vs. S&P 500 (Year-to-Date as of March 26, 2025): The ACWI ex U.S. has shown a notable outperformance, widening the gap against the S&P 500. This suggests a potential shift in investor focus.
• Historical Trends: When the ACWI ex U.S. has had a strong first quarter like this, history shows it often continues to do well for the rest of the year. It’s not a guarantee, of course, but it’s a pattern worth noting.
• Global Economic Factors: Things like trade policy uncertainty in the U.S. and general concerns about slowing domestic growth can push investors to look elsewhere for opportunities. Meanwhile, other countries might be implementing policies that make their markets more inviting.

Basically, the ACWI ex U.S. is a way to track the performance of global stocks outside of America, and right now, it’s telling a story of international strength.

10. The MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSE:EFA)

When looking at international investments, the MSCI EAFE ETF (NYSE:EFA) is a name that often comes up. EAFE stands for Europe, Australasia, and the Far East, and this ETF aims to track the performance of stocks in developed markets within these regions. It’s a way to get broad exposure to a significant chunk of the global economy outside of North America.

This ETF offers a diversified basket of companies, giving investors a stake in established economies like Japan, the UK, France, and Australia. It’s a popular choice for those who want to spread their investments beyond the U.S. without venturing into the higher risks sometimes associated with emerging markets. Think of it as a way to tap into the economic activity of some of the world’s most developed nations, excluding the United States.

Here’s a quick look at what you might find in an ETF like EFA:

• Geographic Focus: Primarily developed countries in Europe, Japan, Australia, and parts of Asia. It deliberately excludes the U.S. and emerging markets.
• Sector Exposure: Typically includes a mix of industries, often with significant weightings in financials, industrials, and consumer discretionary sectors, reflecting the economic makeup of these regions.
• Investment Goal: To mirror the returns of the MSCI EAFE Index, providing a benchmark for performance in these specific international markets.

For investors who believe in the potential of these established global economies and want to reduce their reliance solely on U.S. markets, the MSCI EAFE ETF presents a straightforward option. It’s a tool to diversify your portfolio and potentially capture growth from different corners of the world.

Wrapping It Up

So, looking at international stocks for 2025 seems like a pretty good idea. We’ve seen how they’ve been doing better than U.S. stocks lately, and there are a few reasons why that might keep going. Things like better prices overseas, maybe some easier money policies, and a weaker dollar all play a part. Plus, the U.S. market has its own set of worries, like trade stuff and questions about how fast the economy will grow here. It’s not a guarantee, of course, and markets can change fast. But if you’re thinking about growing your money, checking out what’s happening outside the U.S. could be a smart move. Just remember to do your homework and pick companies that look like they have a solid future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are international stocks doing better than U.S. stocks right now?

International stocks are performing well because they seem like a better deal (lower prices), global money conditions might get easier, and the U.S. dollar has weakened. Also, some people worry that the U.S. economy might slow down, and trade issues add to this concern, making investors look elsewhere for better opportunities.

Can international stocks keep outperforming U.S. stocks?

History suggests that when international stocks have a strong start to the year, they often continue to do well for the rest of the year. While it’s not guaranteed, past patterns show that this trend can continue.

What are some top high-growth tech companies around the world?

Some leading global tech companies showing strong growth include Giant Network Group, Suzhou TFC Optical Communication, Pharma Mar, Fositek, Hacksaw, Gold Circuit Electronics, eWeLLLtd, KebNi, CD Projekt, and CARsgen Therapeutics Holdings. These companies are showing impressive increases in both sales and profits.

Should I consider investing in emerging markets like China, Brazil, and India?

Emerging markets like China, Brazil, and India currently have stocks that are cheaper compared to U.S. stocks. While they offer potential for high returns, they also come with more risks and uncertainties, so it’s important to be aware of these factors before investing.

What is the MSCI All Country World Index (ACWI) ex U.S. and the MSCI EAFE ETF (EFA)?

The MSCI ACWI ex U.S. is a benchmark that tracks the performance of stocks in developed and emerging markets outside of the United States. The MSCI EAFE ETF (EFA) is an investment fund that aims to mirror the performance of the MSCI EAFE Index, which covers developed market stocks in Europe, Australasia, and the Far East.

How does artificial intelligence affect global tech companies?

Artificial intelligence is a major driver of change in the tech world. Companies investing in AI are developing new technologies and more efficient ways to do things. This can lead to faster growth and new opportunities, but it also means companies need to adapt to new AI models and strategies.