Hatch vs Sharesies 2026: Which Is Better for NZ Investors?

Kia ora. Hatch and Sharesies are two of the most popular ways for Kiwis to invest in US and global shares. They overlap a lot, so the choice comes down to a few specifics. Here's the honest 2026 comparison.

The short answer

• Sharesies suits beginners and people who want NZ shares, US shares, and managed funds all in one friendly app — plus KiwiSaver.
• Hatch leans toward investors focused on US markets specifically, with a clean US-shares experience.
• For most beginners, Sharesies' all-in-one simplicity wins. If you're US-focused, Hatch is worth a look.

Fees

Both charge transaction fees on share trades — check the current rates, as they shift. The key thing: on small, regular investments, percentage-based fees eat more, so compare based on how you'll actually invest (small and often vs large and occasional). For low-cost index investing specifically, also weigh up Kernel and InvestNow, which can be cheaper for funds.

What you can invest in

• Sharesies: NZ shares, US shares, ETFs, managed funds, and KiwiSaver — broadest all-in-one range.
• Hatch: strong US shares and ETF focus.

If you want everything under one login, Sharesies edges it. If you mostly want US exposure, Hatch is purpose-built for it.

The experience

Both have clean, modern apps. Sharesies is often praised as the most beginner-friendly in NZ — fractional shares, simple language, easy auto-invest. Hatch is straightforward too, with a US-market focus.

Who suits who?

• Pick Sharesies if you're starting out, want NZ + US + funds + KiwiSaver in one place, and value simplicity.
• Pick Hatch if you're specifically focused on US shares and ETFs.
• New to investing entirely? Start with how to start investing in NZ first.

The bottom line

Hatch vs Sharesies comes down to breadth vs focus. Sharesies is the all-rounder most beginners want; Hatch is the US-markets specialist. Either gets you invested — which matters far more than the platform.