I worked in broking for many years. It will be virtually impossible to get a share cert for any US company. Plus, trading and settlement is far far faster and simplier when you have a nominee account. I wouldn't be recommeding share certs to anyone. Anyway, 99% of listed companies simply won't issue them - they have to be held in a Crest Nominee account. I have never seen a share cert for a US company - but I am open to correction if some still do - phone any broker and they'll tell you straight away - or if you want to tell me what stocks your interested in buying, i'll let you know. Or simply go to the "investor relations" section of their websites and you should find out there. Your best bet is to open an online account, deposit the funds in and place the trades. any broker will be able to help you. Trust me, €10k is a lot of money these days! You don't need a US bank account. best of luck. if you have any other questions, just let me know if I can help.