How to Trade Online?
If you're new to the market, these are the basic steps to start online trading:
1. The first thing you need to do is open a Demat and trading account with a broker that is registered with SEBI. The trading account enables you to purchase and sell shares online, while the Demat account keeps them safe.
2. Spend time familiarising yourself with the stock market before you begin trading. Take basic courses, read financial blogs and attend webinars. The more you know, the better your trades are likely to be.
3. Rather than risking your money immediately, use a demo account. You can try strategies without losing real money, monitor changes in price and develop confidence.
4. Define your goals and determine how much money you will invest. A trading plan prevents you from making rash decisions and keeps you focused on your objective when markets are volatile.
5. It's not about making rapid money when you trade. Think of it as a skill you can use for a long time. Be patient, keep practicing, and learn about new tools and tactics all the time.
How Does Online Trading Work?
Here's a step-by-step guide to how online trading works:
You use your trading account to place an order to purchase or sell.
The order is the same as the best price that is currently available in the exchange order book.
The trade happens in seconds after the two sides agree.
Your broker or exchange will send you a trade confirmation.
You get a contract note with the details of the trade.
The settlement process starts; buyers receive securities, sellers receive money.
The securities move to the buyer’s Demat account, and sale proceeds go to the seller’s bank account.
Most trades settle on T+2, which is two business days after the trade. However, exchanges are slowly moving to T+1 settlement.
Types of Online Trading
In India, there are different types of online trading. The type you engage in will depend on your investing objectives.
Commodity Trading: Trading in gold, silver, crude oil, and agricultural commodities on MCX or NCDEX exchange.
Benefits of Online Trading
Simple and Convenient: All that is required is an internet connection and opening a Demat account. You can trade in your own home or on the move using a mobile application.
Trading Online: Is It Really Safe for Investors?
Yes, online trading is secure when you use licensed platforms. However, investors must take precautions.
Use SEBI-regulated platforms for best protection.
Check for SSL encryption on the website or app.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to safeguard your account.
Set alerts and notifications for every trade or account update.
Avoid public Wi-Fi and update passwords periodically.
How to Choose Trading Platforms for Online Trading?
Your platform is a key part of how well you trade. Check for these things:
Easy-to-use interface: Easy to navigate and clean layout.
Prices for competitive broking: Lower fees mean more money for you.
Getting tools for the market: Charts, data, and research reports that don't cost anything.
Strong tech: Trading on the go, notifications in real time, and quick execution speed.
Additional Read: How to Start Trading Online: A Guide for Beginners?
Key Points to Keep in Mind Before Starting Online Trading
Find out how markets work and what makes stock values go up and down.
Use stop-losses and diversification to control your risk.
Always do KYC and only trade with brokers that are registered with SEBI.
Trading on the Internet vs. Trading in Person
Trading is easier online because it doesn't depend on brokers.
You can access online anytime, but you have to be there in person or call to access offline.
Online trading is less expensive than offline trading because the broker fees are lower.
Online Trading vs Offline Trading
Aspect
| Online Trading (User’s Viewpoint)
| Offline Trading (User’s Viewpoint)
|
Ease of Trading
| I can trade independently without depending on a broker. No need to give special instructions.
| I am completely dependent on my broker. Every order requires instructions or approval.
|
Convenience
| I can trade anytime and from anywhere with just internet access.
| I must call or visit the broker’s office to place trades on my behalf.
|
Trading Fees
| I save more because brokerage fees are very low, which helps me retain higher profits.
| I pay higher brokerage charges, reducing my overall profits from trading.
|
Demat & Trading A/c
| I must have both Demat and trading accounts to start trading online.
| I also require Demat and trading accounts, usually managed by the broker.
|
Broker Selection
| I can choose an online broker that offers tools, features, and services aligned with my trading needs.
| I depend heavily on the broker’s personal services, reputation, and trust factor.
|
Knowledge & Analysis
| I need to learn, analyse, and use tools before making trade decisions on my own.
| I often rely on the broker’s suggestions and market knowledge.
|
User Interface
| I get a simple, easy-to-use platform interface that helps me place trades quickly.
| I must depend on phone calls or manual communication with my broker.
|
Brokerage Cost
| I benefit from very low brokerage charges, saving costs on every trade.
| I incur higher brokerage costs as brokers charge premium fees for their services.
|
Financial Instruments
| I can access multiple instruments like stocks, derivatives, ETFs, and more on a single platform.
| My access depends on what instruments the broker offers and supports.
|
Extra Benefits
| Platforms like Bajaj Broking offer Margin Trade Financing, letting me buy up to 4x more than my cash.
| Such leverage options are usually limited or completely absent in offline trading.
|
Conclusion
Investing is now easier, faster, and cheaper thanks to online trading. Anyone can start trading if they have a reputable trading platform, a lot of information, and a plan for managing their risks. To build your money over time, stay informed, keep learning, and trade ethically.