Most countries in Latin America are predominantly considered emerging or frontier markets, thus having smaller, riskier, or more illiquid capital markets. Most of the smaller countries even lack a stock market.

Panama and Uruguay offer several stocks accessible to international investors. Puerto Rico is an unincorporated territory of the U.S., but is often culturally more linked to Latin America.  

The market capitalization in Latin America continues to be low and equity markets in the region are considered small. Venture capital has been pouring into Latin America, increasing the likelihood of more companies going public.

As Latin American countries continue to develop and integrate their financial markets, the region’s capital markets are expected to reflect this growth. This will offer more robust opportunities for both companies and investors.