Best Stock Trading Apps In India

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Go to broker’s website Plus500 Overview

If you're too busy to read the entire article and want a quick answer, If you are too busy to read the entire article and want a quick answer, the best stock trading app in India is Plus500. Why? Here are its key advantages:

Is legit in your country (Identified as United States )
Has a good user satisfaction score 6.83 out of 10
A wide range of trading instruments, including forex, stocks, commodities and cryptocurrencies, to diversify your investment portfolio.
Low trading fees and tight spreads reduce transaction costs, increasing potential profits.

Go to broker’s website Plus500 Overview

Below, we'll explain in more detail why we believe this and how brokers were evaluated.

Best stock trading apps in India are:

eOption - Zero-fee stock trading, no minimum deposit requirements for U.S. traders
Wealthsimple - No trading fee, over 14,000 stocks, services only to residents of Canada
Ally Bank - No fees on U.S. stocks, robo portfolios from $100, banking services
Revolut - Broker and UK-licensed bank providing access to trading 2000+ stocks
Interactive Brokers - Operates since 1977 and covers over 150 markets in 34 countries

If stock traders understand different stock types and investment procedures, they are more likely to succeed in the market. Key trading aspects include portfolio diversification and risk management. Choosing the right trading app in India is essential when making the first trade.

The wide range of stock trading apps makes selecting the best one challenging. Traders often have different reasons for preferring specific platforms, mainly due to the stock services and trading tools each app provides. This choice becomes even more important for beginners entering the market.

This guide will help aspiring stock traders find the best stock trading app in India. Keep reading to explore top trading apps for your investment journey.

Top 5 apps for stock trading in India

Selecting the right stock broker is crucial for successful trading in India. Many top-tier stock brokers provide robust trading apps that offer seamless access to the stock market. These apps enable traders to buy and sell stocks, monitor portfolios, and access real-time market updates. Below, we highlight some of the best stock brokers in India that offer feature-rich trading apps:

Best stock market apps in India
	Interest rate	Basic stock/ETF fee	Min. stock/ETF fee	Open an account
eOption		$3 per trade	$3 per trade	Open an account Via eOption's secure website.
Wealthsimple	1	Zero Fees	Zero Fees	Open an account Via Wealthsimple's secure website.
Ally Bank		Zero Fees	Zero Fees	Study review
Revolut	0,15-1	Standard, Plus, Premium, and Metal Plans: 0.25% of the order amount. Ultra Plan: 0.12% of the order amount.	£1.00 in the UK, €1.00 in the Eurozone	Study review
Interactive Brokers	4,83	0-0,0035%	$1,00	Open an account Your capital is at risk.

How to choose the best stock broker offering trading apps in India?

Choosing the best trading app in India can be a complex but crucial decision for traders. Here are 4-5 tips to help you select the best app for trading that fits your needs:

Safety and regulation

Ensure the broker is regulated by reputable authorities such as the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). This oversight ensures adherence to financial standards and enhances investor protection. Additionally, prioritize apps that implement robust security measures, including SSL encryption and two-factor authentication, to safeguard your personal and financial information.

Trading conditions and fees

Evaluate the trading conditions, including spreads, leverage, and execution speed. Avoid brokers with hidden fees such as deposit or withdrawal charges. The top brokers in India will offer negative balance protection, competitive fees, and a straightforward fee structure, making it easier for traders to maximize their profits.

Trading platforms

A top stock broker should offer a robust and user-friendly trading app. Key features include real-time market data, advanced charting tools, automated trading options, and seamless order execution. Ensure the app supports both mobile and desktop platforms for trading flexibility.

Customer support

Look for brokers that offer prompt customer support through various channels such as email, phone, and live chat. An efficient support team available 24/7 can assist with trading issues and ensure smooth trading operations.

Reputation and track record

Research the broker’s industry reputation, financial stability, and customer reviews. A long-standing presence in the market with positive feedback from traders indicates reliability. Consult experienced traders and financial advisors for additional insights.

How to start trading stocks in India?

Traders should conduct extensive research on the Indian stock market, as understanding the stocks they intend to invest in can significantly increase profitability. Additionally, traders must be familiar with the stock and Forex market opening times in India. Since investing in Indian stocks can boost your income, how do you get started? Below are steps on how to start stock trading in India.

Understand the basics. Learn how the stock market works, including market dynamics, stock functions, and associated risks. This foundational knowledge is crucial for making informed investment decisions.
Open a demat and trading account. You need a demat account to hold securities electronically and a trading account to execute buy and sell orders. These accounts can be opened through registered stockbrokers.
Choose a reputable stockbroker. Select a broker offering a user-friendly platform, competitive brokerage fees, and reliable customer service. Ensure the broker is registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
Conduct thorough research. Analyze companies using fundamental analysis (evaluating financial health) and technical analysis (studying price movements and market trends) to make informed decisions.
Develop a trading strategy. Create a trading plan outlining your investment goals, risk tolerance, and preferred trading style such as intraday, swing, or long-term. A clear strategy helps maintain discipline and manage risks effectively.
Start with a demo account. Many brokers offer demo accounts that allow you to practice trading with virtual money. Using a demo account helps you understand the trading platform and test your strategies without risking real funds.
Begin trading with real funds. Once confident, start trading with real money by making small investments. Monitor your trades closely, stay updated with market news, and refine your strategies based on performance.

Can I trade with an international stock broker?

Indian investors can trade with international stock brokers to access global equity markets, including stocks from the U.S., U.K., and other major economies. This strategy allows for broader investment opportunities, enabling portfolio diversification and reducing market-specific risks.

To trade internationally, Indian investors have multiple options. Several Indian brokerage firms have tie-ups with global brokers, offering integrated platforms for seamless international trading. For example, ICICI Direct’s GlobalInvest and HDFC Securities’ Global Investing provide direct access to U.S. and other global stock exchanges through domestic brokerage accounts. Investors can also open accounts directly with foreign brokers like Interactive Brokers or TD Ameritrade, which accept Indian clients and provide access to international markets.

Another approach is investing in international mutual funds and ETFs listed on Indian exchanges. These funds offer indirect exposure to global stocks without requiring an international trading account. Managed by reputable asset management companies, they provide diversified global market access with simplified tax compliance.

Investors must comply with India’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS), which permits annual foreign investments of up to $250,000 per individual. It is crucial to verify that the chosen international broker is regulated by reputable financial authorities and accepts Indian clients, ensuring a secure and transparent investment experience.

Do I pay taxes for stock trading in India?

Yes, stock trading in India is subject to taxation under the Income Tax Act, 1961. The applicable taxes depend on the type of transactions and the holding period of the securities. Here’s a breakdown of relevant taxes.

Capital gains tax

Short-term capital gains (STCG). If you sell listed equity shares within 12 months of purchase, the profit is classified as STCG and taxed at 20%.
Long-term capital gains (LTCG). Shares held for more than 12 months qualify for LTCG tax. Gains exceeding ₹1.25 lakh in a financial year are taxed at 12.5%.

Business income

Speculative business income. Income from intraday trading, where transactions are settled without delivery, is considered speculative and taxed according to the individual's applicable income tax slab rates.
Non-speculative business income. Profits from trading futures and options (F&O) or delivery-based equity transactions are treated as non-speculative business income and taxed as per the individual's income tax slab rates.

Dividend income

Dividends received from companies are added to the individual’s total income and taxed according to the applicable income tax slab rates.

Securities transaction tax (STT)

STT is levied on the sale of equity shares and equity-oriented mutual funds. The rate depends on the type of transaction.

Recent amendments

As of July 2024, the Indian government increased tax rates on equity derivatives trades and capital gains from equity investments. The tax on stocks held for less than one year rose to 20% from 15%, while the tax on stocks held for more than one year increased to 12.5% from 10%.

Traders and investors should maintain accurate records of all transactions and consult tax professionals to ensure compliance with the latest tax regulations.

Assess the app's integration capabilities with other financial services you use

When selecting a stock trading app in India, it's crucial to look beyond basic features and consider how the platform aligns with your specific investment goals and trading style. For instance, if you're interested in intraday trading, opt for an app that offers advanced charting tools and real-time data updates to facilitate quick decision-making. Conversely, if you're a long-term investor, prioritize platforms that provide comprehensive research reports and portfolio tracking features to support informed investment choices.

Additionally, assess the app's integration capabilities with other financial services you use. An app that seamlessly connects with your bank account, tax planning tools, or even other investment platforms can streamline your financial management. This holistic approach not only simplifies your trading experience but also ensures that all aspects of your financial planning are synchronized, leading to more effective wealth management.

Methodology for compiling our ratings of stock brokers

Traders Union applies a rigorous methodology to evaluate brokers using over 100 quantitative and qualitative criteria. Multiple parameters are given individual scores that feed into an overall rating.

Key aspects of the assessment include:

Regulation and safety. Brokers are evaluated based on the level/reputation of licenses and regulations they operate under.
User reviews. Client reviews and feedback are analyzed to determine customer satisfaction levels. Reviews are fact-checked and verified.
Trading instruments. Brokers are evaluated on the range of assets offered, as well as the breadth and depth of available markets.
Fees and commissions. All trading fees and commissions are analyzed comprehensively to determine overall costs for clients.
Trading platforms. Brokers are assessed based on the variety, quality, and features of platforms offered to clients.
Other factors like brand popularity, client support, and educational resources are also evaluated.

Conclusion

Modern platforms offer a wide range of functionality, including analysis tools, copy trading, and minimal commissions, making them accessible to both beginners and experienced traders. Before choosing an application, consider your goals, trading style, and financial capabilities. Using a demo account and studying the broker's terms and conditions will help you avoid mistakes at the start. Reliable technical support and transparent conditions will make the trading process comfortable and safe. With the right application, you can effectively manage your investments and achieve your financial goals.

FAQs

Which stock platform is best in India?

The best stock platform in India should be regulated by SEBI, have a user-friendly interface, and offer essential features like real-time market updates, advanced trading tools, and secure transactions. It should also provide seamless access to various trading instruments, ensuring a smooth and efficient trading experience.

How to trade stocks in India?

To trade stocks in India, open an account with a SEBI-registered stock broker. Familiarize yourself with the trading process and develop a trading strategy. Beginners should practice using a demo account before switching to live trading. This approach builds confidence and refines trading skills.

What is the best stock trading app to use?

The best stock trading app should offer features like competitive fees, advanced charting tools, and seamless access to global and domestic stock markets. An intuitive design, real-time alerts, and portfolio management tools enhance trading efficiency and help users make informed investment decisions.

Do I pay taxes for stock trading?

Yes, traders in India are subject to capital gains tax when they sell stocks for a profit. Short-term capital gains are taxed at 15%, while long-term gains exceeding ₹1 lakh are taxed at 10%. Understanding tax implications is essential for better financial planning and compliance.

Team that worked on the article

Maxim Nechiporenko has been a contributor to Traders Union since 2023. He started his professional career in the media in 2006. He has expertise in finance and investment, and his field of interest covers all aspects of geoeconomics. Maxim provides up-to-date information on trading, cryptocurrencies and other financial instruments. He regularly updates his knowledge to keep abreast of the latest innovations and trends in the market.

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Chinmay Soni is a financial analyst with more than 5 years of experience in working with stocks, Forex, derivatives, and other assets. As a founder of a boutique research firm and an active researcher, he covers various industries and fields, providing insights backed by statistical data. He is also an educator in the field of finance and technology.

As an author for Traders Union, he contributes his deep analytical insights on various topics, taking into account various aspects.

Mirjan Hipolito is a journalist and news editor at Traders Union. She is an expert crypto writer with five years of experience in the financial markets. Her specialties are daily market news, price predictions, and Initial Coin Offerings (ICO).