How to Buy CATL Stock

Investors who want to piggyback on the growth of popular companies should look at ancillary businesses that grow in parallel because of their relationship to the popular business. For investors who find Tesla (TSLA) appealing, an ancillary company to consider is Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL) because it makes Tesla’s battery packs. Here’s what to know about the company and how to potentially invest.

You may want to speak directly with your financial advisor if you want to add it to your portfolio.

Who Is Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. (CATL)?

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Ningde, China, the company supplies battery technology to many of the world’s leading automakers. CATL has become a major player in the global transition toward electric transportation and renewable energy storage.

CATL designs and manufactures battery cells, battery systems and related technologies used in electric vehicles, commercial transportation and grid-scale energy storage. The company invests heavily in research and development, with a focus on improving battery performance, charging speed, safety and energy density. In addition to producing batteries, CATL develops battery recycling and energy management solutions that support the broader clean energy ecosystem.

As one of the largest EV battery manufacturers by global market share, CATL serves a diverse customer base that includes both Chinese and international automakers. Its scale, manufacturing capacity and technological expertise have helped establish the company as a key supplier in the rapidly growing electric vehicle industry. However, like many companies in the sector, CATL faces competition from other battery manufacturers, evolving technology and changes in government policies affecting EV adoption.

CATL’s shares are listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, making the company primarily accessible through China’s domestic stock market. Because it is not listed on a major U.S. exchange, investors outside China may face additional considerations when seeking to invest, including brokerage access, foreign market rules and currency exposure.

Why Do Investors Want to Buy CATL Stock?

Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) has become one of the most talked-about companies in the global energy market, and for good reason. As the world’s largest manufacturer of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, CATL plays a critical role in powering the EV revolution. Its batteries are used by major automakers like Tesla, BMW and Ford, giving investors exposure to the rapid growth of the clean energy and electric mobility sectors.

Investors are drawn to CATL because of its strong market dominance and technological innovation. The company continues to lead in battery efficiency, energy density, and cost reduction, key factors driving the EV industry forward. With electric vehicle adoption expanding worldwide, CATL’s position at the center of the supply chain gives it a competitive advantage that few companies can match.

Beyond EVs, CATL is also investing heavily in energy storage systems and renewable energy integration, areas expected to see explosive growth as countries transition toward carbon neutrality. This diversification offers long-term growth potential beyond just the automotive market.

For investors who believe in the future of clean energy, CATL represents a direct way to invest in that transformation. However, because the stock trades on China’s Shenzhen Stock Exchange, it may require buying through international brokerage accounts or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that hold CATL shares.

How to Buy CATL Stock

Many international company shares are available for purchase on American stock exchanges through American depository receipts (ADRs). However, not all foreign stocks have an ADR equivalent. CATL stock is listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. Unfortunately, only a limited number of U.S. brokerage companies allow trading in stocks listed on Chinese exchanges.

Here is how to buy CATL stock if you’re an American investor:

Purchase through Interactive Brokers: Interactive Brokers is one of the few U.S. brokerages that allow American investors to buy Chinese class A shares.
Buy a battery-themed ETF that owns CATL: There are several ETFs that target the electric battery market and own shares in CATL. A few options include CNXT, KBA, BATT and KARS.
Invest in a China-focused ETF: Several ETFs focus on companies within specific regions of the world. ETFs focusing on China are a good option to acquire shares in CATL. Examples include MCHI, CQQQ and KGRN.

You can buy ETF shares through your existing brokerage account, by opening a new one or placing an order with your financial advisor. Remember that ETF holdings can change without notice. Before buying an ETF, visit its sponsor’s website to see a current listing of its holdings to verify that it still owns shares of CATL.

Should You Buy CATL Stock?

Before buying individual shares of a company, many advisors recommend taking care of your baseline financial tasks. You can follow these steps to build your financial foundation before investing in individual stocks, but we recommend speaking with your financial advisor to create a plan specific to your unique situation.

Max out your company retirement plan and IRA.
Build an emergency fund to cover three to six months of expenses.
Purchase adequate life and disability insurance coverage.
Eliminate high-interest debt (like credit cards).
Create an estate plan for your heirs.

Once you’ve followed these steps, deposit money into a brokerage account where you can buy and sell individual stocks. You can invest this money in higher-risk investments that won’t affect your ability to hit your other money goals.

Bottom Line

Buying CATL stock may require additional steps compared with purchasing shares of a U.S.-listed company because the stock trades primarily on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange. Investors who want exposure to CATL should understand their brokerage’s international trading capabilities, the risks associated with foreign investing and any currency or regulatory considerations before investing. As with any individual stock, evaluating how CATL fits within your overall portfolio and long-term financial goals is an important part of the decision-making process.

Tips for Investing

Financial advisors help investors analyze various investment options and create a plan of action to meet their goals. Before investing in an individual stock, mutual fund or ETF, talk with your advisor to understand how it fits within your portfolio. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
When investing your money, it is important to diversify your assets among many different types of stocks and bonds. This helps you gain exposure to multiple sectors of the market and benefit from their growth. Our asset allocation calculator helps you select a profile that’s right for you based on your answers to simple questions.