Top 2025 Brokers in India for Trading

A trading broker is a financial intermediary that allows you to place orders on the markets and trade various assets as an individual, such as CFDs, Forex, cryptocurrencies, or commodities.

But what is trading and how does it work? How do you choose the right broker to practice online trading?

Discover the highest-rated brokers for this year, those who stand out for their quality of service, reliability, and ability to adapt to different market trends. On this page, we have compared brokers with user-friendly platforms, tight spreads, access to MetaTrader 4 or 5, or those offering a unique social experience with copy trading for you.

What is a trading broker? Definition of trading

In essence, "trading" refers to the buying and selling operations that are carried out in the financial markets.

Individuals or professionals who carry out these operations are called "traders."

Trading can be carried out by professional traders who speculate from trading floors or on behalf of a financial or stock market institution, but also by individual and independent traders who use online trading platforms for this purpose.

Good to know

Trading differs from traditional investment in that it aims for shorter-term gains and uses certain specific tools such as leverage to increase market exposure.

Broker trading: definition and role

A broker, is a financial intermediary that allows investors to buy and sell assets on financial markets. These assets can be diverse: stocks, currencies, commodities, indices, and more. The main role of a broker is to facilitate access to the markets for individual and institutional traders, by providing the platform, tools, and services necessary to carry out transactions.

Brokers play an essential role in the trading ecosystem. They provide trading platforms that allow you to view real-time prices, place orders, and analyse markets using technical indicators. In addition, they serve as a link between investors and stock exchanges, transmitting traders' orders to the markets, often in near real-time.

In addition to these basic functions, brokers may offer additional services, such as investment advice, market analysis, or training for beginners. They also play an indispensable role in ensuring the security of transactions and offering leverage that allows traders to increase the value of their positions, although this may increase the risks.

What are the best trading brokers in India in 2025?

Choosing the best broker depends on your trading strategy and the assets that interest you. Whether you are interested in Forex, copy trading, cryptocurrencies, or prefer to use a specific platform like MetaTrader, some brokers stand out for the quality of their services. Here is a selection of the best brokers in India in 2025, according to the types of trading practiced.

Best broker for Forex trading

The foreign exchange (Forex) market attracts many traders due to its high liquidity and extended hours. To make the most of Forex trading, several criteria must be taken into account before choosing a Forex broker :

• Competitive spreads on major currency pairs (such as EUR/USD) help reduce transaction costs, especially for short-term strategies.
• Fast order execution is essential in such a volatile market to limit slippage and guarantee precise entry and exit points.
• High leverage, although risky, can be a strategic lever for experienced traders looking to maximize their exposure with limited capital.
• Reliable regulation (SEBI, etc.) ensures the protection of funds and compliance with industry best practices.
• Recognized platforms like MetaTrader 4 or 5 (MT4/MT5), or cTrader, offer powerful technical analysis tools and an interface suitable for all types of traders.

Certain Forex brokers combine these advantages to offer an optimal experience, both for beginners and more advanced traders.

Best Broker for Copy Trading

Copy trading is an ideal solution for investors who want to benefit from the experience of professional traders without actively managing their portfolio. It allows you to automatically replicate the strategies of more experienced traders, while maintaining total control over the amounts invested.

Here are the main criteria to consider when choosing a broker adapted to copy trading:

• Integrated copy trading platforms: Some brokers offer their own social platforms, while others rely on recognized external solutions such as ZuluTrade or Myfxbook.
• Fee structure: Fees can vary between simple spreads, commissions on profits made, or copy fees charged for each copied transaction.
• Variety of assets offered: A versatile broker allows you to copy strategies across different markets such as Forex, stocks, cryptocurrencies, or indices.
• Regulation: As with any financial service, it is essential to ensure that the broker is properly regulated by a recognised authority (such as SEBI).

Best Broker for Crypto Trading

Cryptocurrency trading is increasingly attracting investors, drawn by price volatility and opportunities for quick gains. To choose the right crypto broker, several criteria must be considered:

• Number of cryptos available: A diverse offering allows you to diversify your portfolio beyond the classic Bitcoin or Ethereum, with altcoins with strong potential.
• Competitive trading fees: Brokers generally apply spreads or commissions. Comparing fees is essential to optimize profitability.
• Trading platform: An intuitive, fluid interface with technical analysis tools is a real asset, especially for active traders.
• Regulation and security: Even in the crypto universe, it is preferable to go through a regulated intermediary, which guarantees the protection of funds and compliance with compliance standards, as per regulations in India.

Best Trading Broker with MT4 or MT5

MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) are essential platforms in the world of online trading. Known for their stability, compatibility with Expert Advisors (EAs), and advanced technical analysis tools, they are used by both beginners and experienced traders.

To get the most out of these platforms, it is recommended to choose a broker that:

• Offers MT4 and/or MT5 without restrictions, with all functionalities available (customizable indicators, automated trading, advanced order management, etc.);
• Offers competitive spreads, especially on major markets such as Forex, indices or commodities;
• Has leverage adapted to the user's profile (with options up to 1:100 in some cases);
• Is regulated by a recognized authority, guaranteeing the security of funds and the reliability of the platform.

How to find the best broker for trading?

Choosing the best broker for trading is important if you want to succeed in your investments. A good broker will allow you to maximize your chances of gains while minimizing risks, thanks to efficient tools, competitive fees, and quality customer support. Here are the main criteria to consider in order to find the broker that best suits your needs and your investor profile.

• Regulation and Security: The first criterion to verify is the broker's regulation. The broker must be regulated by a recognized financial authority, such as the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK, CySEC in Cyprus, or the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in India. Solid regulation ensures that the broker adheres to strict standards of transparency, fund security, and fair treatment of clients. The security of your funds and personal data should always be a priority.
• Fees and Commissions: Fees represent a significant portion of your trading costs. These include transaction commissions, spreads (the difference between the buy and sell price), and possibly account management fees. Opt for a broker whose fees are clear and competitive to minimize the impact of these costs on your potential gains. Be wary of brokers that offer very tight spreads but impose high commissions, and vice versa.
• Trading Platform: The quality of the trading platform is another fundamental element. A good platform should be intuitive, reliable, and provide quick access to market information. It should offer technical analysis tools (indicators, advanced charts), a user-friendly interface, and the ability to use advanced orders such as stop or limit orders. Some brokers offer popular platforms like MetaTrader 4 or 5, while others have developed their own tools.
• Available Assets: Depending on your investment strategy, you will want to choose a broker that offers a wide range of assets: stocks, Forex, indices, commodities, cryptocurrencies, etc. Check if the assets you are interested in are available, and if the broker offers advantageous trading conditions on these assets (leverage, spreads, etc.). The diversity of financial products allows you to vary strategies and spread risks.
• Leverage and Margins: Leverage allows you to amplify your exposure to the market, which can increase your gains but also your losses. Some brokers offer higher leverage than others, which may be attractive to experienced traders but risky for beginners. Check that the broker offers leverage levels that are in line with your risk tolerance, and that it provides clear explanations of the margins required.
• Customer Service and Educational Resources: Good customer service is essential, especially in case of a technical problem or urgent question. Check that the support is easily reachable, ideally in several languages, and that the response times are reasonable. In addition to support, some brokers offer educational resources: tutorials, webinars, articles, to help you develop your trading skills. For beginners, these resources are a valuable asset.
• User Reviews: User reviews and online tests are also a good source of information. They allow you to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each broker based on the experience of real customers. Keep in mind, however, that each experience is subjective: you should cross-reference several sources of opinions to get a global and balanced picture.

How to Trade with an Online Broker?

Embarking on online trading involves several key steps: from opening an account to using the trading platform, including managing funds and risks. Here’s an overview of the standard process offered by most online brokers.

1. Open a Trading Account

The first step is to open an account with a regulated broker. This process generally includes:

• Online Registration: You need to fill out a form with your personal information (name, email address, phone number), then choose your country of residence.
• Identity Verification (KYC): To comply with international regulations, it is mandatory to provide a valid ID and proof of address. This verification ensures account security and prevents fraud.
• Choosing the Account Type: Brokers offer different types of accounts (standard, commission-free, with reduced spreads, etc.) adapted to various trader profiles.

2. Deposit Funds

Once the account is activated, the next step is to fund it:

• Deposit Methods: Most brokers accept payments by credit card, bank transfer or e-wallets like Skrill, Neteller or PayPal.
• Minimum Amount Required: The minimum initial deposit varies depending on the broker, but often ranges from ₹8,000 to ₹20,000. It is advisable to start with sufficient capital to properly manage the risk, especially when using leverage.

3. Use the Trading Platform (e.g., MT4/MT5)

Once the funds are deposited, you can access the trading platform of your choice. The most common are MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5):

• Installation and Connection: The platforms are available for download on computers or as a web version. Once installed, simply log in with the credentials provided by the broker.
• Interface Discovery: MT4/MT5 offer advanced features: real-time chart display, technical indicators, analysis tools, window customization, fast order execution, and automated management via trading robots (EAs).
• Demo Accounts: It is strongly recommended to start with a demo account to familiarize yourself with the interface, test strategies, and understand market mechanisms without risking your capital.

4. Practical Example: Forex Trading on EUR/USD

Let's take the example of a typical transaction in the Forex market, trading the pair EUR/USD:

• Market Analysis: Before opening a position, it is strongly advised to carry out a technical analysis. With MT5, you can use technical indicators (such as moving averages or Bollinger bands) to identify a trend. Suppose you identify a bullish signal indicating that the Rupee could strengthen against the dollar.
• Placing a Buy Order: On Eightcap's MT5 platform, click on "New Order". Select INR/USD and choose the trading volume (for example, 0.1 lot). Then, click on "Buy" to open a long position.
• Risk Management: To protect your capital, we recommend placing a stop loss. Imagine that you place a stop loss 50 pips below your entry point to limit your potential losses. You can also set a take profit 100 pips above your entry point, to lock in your gains if the market moves in your favor.

5. Monitor and close the position

• Surveillance : Thanks to MT5, you can track the evolution of your position in real time. The charts allow you to see if the trend is evolving as expected. You can also adjust your stop loss or take profit based on market movements.
• Closing the position : When the pair reaches your target or you deem the time right, you can manually close the position by clicking on "Close Position". If the take profit or stop loss are reached, the position will close automatically.

6. Analysis of Results and Adjustments

Once the position is closed, analyze the result:

• Gains or losses: Suppose the EUR/USD has reached your target of 100 pips gain, this means that, depending on the volume of your position, you have made a proportional profit. For example, with a volume of 0.1 lot, 100 pips could equal approximately 100 USD profit.
• Trading diary: Use the log integrated into MT5 to review all the decisions made during this transaction. Understanding what worked well and what can be improved is essential to develop your trading skills.

Good to know

If you are a beginner, we advise you to choose an online broker that will also allow you to follow a trading training course and will offer you a demo account.

Are trading brokers secure in India?

Security is a primary concern for investors when selecting a trading broker. In India, brokers are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), which enforces stringent measures to protect investor funds and ensure a secure trading environment. Here’s an overview of the key regulations and protections that apply to brokers operating in India:

• Regulation and supervisory authorities: Trading brokers in India must be registered with SEBI and comply with its regulations. SEBI oversees brokers to ensure adherence to standards of transparency, risk management, and client protection.
• Segregation of client funds: SEBI mandates that brokers maintain a clear separation between client funds and their own operational funds. This segregation ensures that investor deposits are held in separate accounts, safeguarding them even if the broker faces financial difficulties.
• Compensation and deposit protection: In the event of a broker's default, investors may be eligible for compensation through the Investor Protection Fund (IPF) established by stock exchanges under SEBI's guidance. The IPF provides financial redress to clients who have legitimate claims against defaulter brokers.
• Negative balance protection: While not universally mandated by SEBI, some brokers offer negative balance protection voluntarily. This feature ensures that traders cannot lose more than the capital they have invested, even in extreme market conditions.
• Transparency of information: SEBI requires brokers to provide clear and detailed information about their trading conditions, including fees, spreads, leverage, and associated risks. This transparency helps traders make informed decisions and understand the full cost and risk of their investments.
• Data protection and technological security: Brokers in India are expected to implement advanced security measures to protect clients' personal and financial data. SEBI's regulations emphasize the importance of data encryption, secure storage, and robust cybersecurity protocols to prevent unauthorized access.
• SEBI's warning list: To protect investors from scams and unauthorized brokers, SEBI maintains a list of entities that are not registered or are operating without proper authorization. Before opening an account, traders should verify whether the broker is registered with SEBI and not listed on its warning list.

What are the fees charged by brokers for trading?

Here is a table summarizing the different types of fees charged by online brokers, with average rates or amounts, as well as an example for each type of fee. This table is designed to give you an idea of the costs you might encounter when using a trading broker.

• Spreads: Spreads are fees levied by brokers automatically on every position taken by the trader. It represents a slight difference between the buying price and the selling price of a financial product. Depending on the broker and the asset chosen, the spread can be fixed or variable. In the case of a variable spread, the cost of this spread will vary depending on market volatility. Spreads represent the broker's main compensation.
• Swap fees: The swap is a fee levied on a position between two market sessions. They, therefore, mainly concern traders practicing swing trading. Thus, every time you keep a position open from one day to the next, fees are levied on your account as a charge. The amount of these fees varies according to the broker's internal policy as well as according to volatility.
• Withdrawal fees: While not applied by all brokers and for all types of withdrawals, these fees may be levied when the trader withdraws money from their trading account. Note, however, that depending on the withdrawal method chosen, it is possible to obtain free withdrawals from most brokers.
• Conversion fees: As the name suggests, these fees are applied to currency exchanges. A conversion may be applied by a broker if you invest in an asset denominated in dollars with Indian Rupees.
• Account maintenance fees: While these fees have become increasingly rare over time, some brokers still practice them, and they are general fees. They can be billed monthly, quarterly, or annually.
• Inactivity fees: Some brokers also charge inactivity fees, which are applied when the trader does not use their trading account for a certain period. Most often, these fees are only charged after 12 months or 24 months of inactivity. But some brokers apply them after 6 months. The amount of inactivity fees will also vary according to the broker's policy, and we advise you to check these before registering.
• Specific fees for stocks: Stock trading will also involve certain specific fees at some brokers. This may include subscription fees or additional commissions to the spread. Most often, these are fees levied to have access to foreign market data in real-time.
• Guaranteed stop-loss order fees: Finally, some brokers also charge for the use of guaranteed stop-loss orders, even if this practice is also becoming increasingly rare.

Which broker for trading with a demo account?

One of the most effective ways to learn online trading is to use a demo account or free demo account. These accounts are offered by many brokers and allow you to both test the proposed platform and practice using different strategies before risking your own money. 

The demo account is equipped with virtual capital that can be unlimited or limited. This is virtual money that you will use to make your investments in real market conditions. Similarly, the duration of use of a demo account will vary from one broker to another.

The trading demo account allows you to take advantage of several benefits, including: 

• The opportunity to learn without taking risks: A demo account allows you to speculate in real market conditions without risking your own capital and potentially losing it.
• The opportunity to learn how to use the platform: Using a demo account, you can also test most of the features offered by your broker's trading platform. This will allow you to practice using its features and tools safely.
• The opportunity to test trading strategies: Finally, the demo account also has the advantage of allowing you to test different trading strategies in parallel in order to detect the best solution and the best method.

How Much Can You Earn With a Trading Broker?

It is, of course, difficult to say precisely how much you can earn from trading, as your earnings depend primarily on your experience, your level of knowledge, and your initial investment.

If you take the time to train and practice using a demo account, your potential earnings will also depend on the type of strategy you implement.

• With a strategy of Swing trading, you can expect an optimal return of around 10% per month.
• With a strategy of Day trading, you can expect an approximate return of 30% or more per month by spending 5 to 6 hours per day trading.

Of course, the amount you can earn as a retail trader will also depend on the amount you invest on the trading platform. Indeed, a 10% return on an account with a deposit of 1,000 represents only 100, while if you deposit 10,000 you can earn up to 1,000 per month with an effective strategy.

Are trading gains taxable in India?

Yes, trading profits are taxable in India. The taxation depends on the nature of the trading activity and the holding period of the assets. Here's an overview of how trading gains are taxed:

• Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): If you sell listed equity shares or equity-oriented mutual funds within 12 months of purchase, the profit is considered a short-term capital gain. As per the 2024 Union Budget, STCG is taxed at 20% (plus applicable surcharge and cess) for transactions where Securities Transaction Tax (STT) has been paid.
• Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): If you sell listed equity shares or equity-oriented mutual funds after holding them for more than 12 months, the profit is considered a long-term capital gain. LTCG exceeding ₹1.25 lakh in a financial year is taxed at 12.5% (plus applicable surcharge and cess), provided STT has been paid on such transactions.
• Business Income: Profits from intraday trading or trading in derivatives are considered business income. Such income is added to your total income and taxed according to the applicable income tax slab rates. Additionally, if your turnover exceeds specified limits, you may be required to maintain books of accounts and get them audited under Section 44AB of the Income Tax Act.
• Offsetting Losses: Short-term capital losses can be set off against both short-term and long-term capital gains. Long-term capital losses can only be set off against long-term capital gains. Unabsorbed capital losses can be carried forward for up to eight assessment years, provided you have filed your income tax return within the due date.
• Securities Transaction Tax (STT): STT is applicable on the purchase and sale of securities listed on recognized stock exchanges in India. The rate of STT varies depending on the type of security and transaction. For instance, STT on the sale of equity shares is 0.1% of the transaction value.

It's important to maintain accurate records of all your trading transactions, including purchase and sale dates, prices, and associated costs, to ensure correct tax computation and compliance.

All our guides on trading in India

P. Laurore

Finance expert

Co-founder of HelloSafe and holder of a Master's degree in finance, Pauline has recognised expertise in personal finance, which she uses to help users better understand and optimise their financial choices. At HelloSafe, Pauline plays a key role in designing clear, educational content on savings, investments and personal finance. Passionate about financial education, Pauline strives, with every piece of content she oversees, to provide reliable, transparent and unbiased information for independent and informed financial management. To this end, she has tested over 100 trading platforms to help internet users make the right choices.