Stocks

American depositary receipt (ADR)

A U.S.-traded certificate representing shares of a foreign company.

Plain-English context

Put the definition to work.

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE

An ADR may represent two foreign ordinary shares. Its price also reflects that ratio, exchange rates, depositary fees and the underlying company.

IMPORTANT DISTINCTION

The ADR ratio is not always one ordinary share. Currency exposure, depositary fees and shareholder rights need separate review.

Further reading and verification. Examples are hypothetical, not current quotes or recommendations. Product terms, tax treatment and market rules can change. Investor.gov — ADRs

MY MARKET BOOK / FREE CHAPTER

A clearer picture starts here.