Thread by @HumbledTrader18

A lot of people think traders can make millions of dollars, 24/7, anywhere in the world.

I've travelled the world, and not all destinations are as trader-friendly as you think.

So I'm going to reveal the best and worst cities for traders based on how trader-friendly they are.

1/ Dubai, UAE 🇦🇪

A no-brainer for traders who want to keep every dollar of profit, Dubai’s opulence, 0% income tax, and fast internet make it a serious contender.

Pros: Zero tax, fast internet, strong expat network

Cons: High living costs and brutal summer heat (think 105°F+ or 40°C)

2/ Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

Many of my U.S. trader friends tell me that Puerto Rico’s Act 60 is a huge benefit. It’s got the tropical feel with major tax breaks for American traders

Pros: 0% tax on capital gains, dividends, and interest income if you meet residency requirements

Cons: Residency rules are strict, and hurricanes are a real risk

3/ Singapore 🇸🇬

Efficient, modern, and tax-friendly. Singapore has earned its spot as Asia’s financial hub for a reason, plus it’s a travel gateway if you want explore other Asian countries (like I did)

Pros: 0% capital gains tax, reliable internet, strong expat network (same as Dubai)

Cons: High living costs, if you trade the NYSE markets open at 11pm or midnight, and high humidity year-round

4/ Taipei, Taiwan 🇹🇼

Being my motherland, I’m (a bit) biased, but I've had extremely fast internet in Taipei, affordable costs, and the culture makes it a trader-friendly spot.

Pros: Fast internet, affordable living, good for night owls because the market opens at 9:30 PM

Cons: Complicated tax structures and the late hours may not suit everyone.

5/ Bangkok, Thailand 🇹🇭

Known for its low costs and huge digital nomad scene, Bangkok is an obvious pick for traders wanting a budget-friendly setup. I spent a month there last year and I loved it.

Pros: Fast internet, low cost of living, big expat community.

Cons: It’s hot year-round, and city life can be chaotic, and market opens at 8:30 PM, so it's a con if you're a morning person.

6/ Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸

I’ve found Barcelona to be one of the best for a work-life balance. Market opens at 3:30 PM, so I spent the mornings exploring. Great food and relaxed vibe.

Pros: Good work-life balance with later market open, affordable wine and food, lots of culture.

Cons: High capital gains tax (up to 26%) and some language barriers.

7/ Lisbon, Portugal 🇵🇹

Quickly becoming a go-to for expats, Lisbon has tax perks AND European charm. Market opens at 2:30 PM—perfect timing for a late start.

Pros: Flat 20% income tax for non-residents, foreign income exemptions.

Cons: Rising housing costs, spotty public transit, and language barriers.

8/ Tokyo, Japan 🇯🇵

Unique trading energy and vibrant culture. Tokyo has a distinct vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else.

Pros: Strong trading culture, fast internet, organized and efficient city.

Cons: Slower internet, high tax rates (up to 55%), late market hours, I'm a morning bird so the late market hours in Asia were hard.

Honorable Mention: Montreal 🇨🇦

Montreal’s a solid choice for balance, with affordable living and a strong tech scene. Brutal winters, though.

Pros: Affordable living, great work-life balance, market hours align with NYSE.

Cons: Cold winters and Quebec taxes (capital gains taxed at 50%).

And that's my trader-friendly city round-up! What’s your top city for trading? Drop it below.

Also, if you're looking for a community of like-minded people and mentors, please check out my trading community 👉humbledtrader.com/our-community?…