Frequently Asked Questions
What is a demat account?
A demat account holds your shares and securities in electronic form. You need one to buy stocks, mutual funds, bonds, and ETFs on Indian exchanges.
How much does it cost to open a demat account?
Most discount brokers offer free account opening. Annual maintenance (AMC) ranges from ₹0-₹750. Some brokers charge ₹200-₹300 for account opening.
What is the difference between a demat account and trading account?
Demat account stores your securities. Trading account is used to place buy/sell orders. You need both to trade. Most brokers open both together.
Can I have multiple demat accounts?
Yes. There is no legal limit. Some investors use different brokers for different purposes (one for long-term, another for trading).
What documents do I need?
PAN card, Aadhaar (for eKYC), bank account details, and a recent photograph. Most brokers offer instant digital account opening via eKYC.
Is my money safe in a demat account?
Securities in demat are held by NSDL/CDSL (depositories), not the broker. Even if the broker shuts down, your securities are safe. Cash balance should be kept minimal.
ICICI Direct
ICICI Direct
Full-service broker from ICICI Bank. 3-in-1 account linking savings, demat, and trading.
Account Opening
₹0
AMC
₹0
Equity Delivery
Zero
Intraday
₹20 per order
Trading Platforms
ICICI Direct Web
ICICI Direct App
Trade Racer
Key Features
- 3-in-1 account (savings+demat+trading)
- Strong research & advisory
- ICICI Bank integration
- IPO applications easy
- Wide product range
Fee Structure
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Account Opening | ₹0 |
| Annual Maintenance | ₹0 |
| Equity Delivery | Zero |
| Intraday/F&O | ₹20/order |
Pros
- 3-in-1 account (savings+demat+trading)
- Strong research & advisory
- ICICI Bank integration
- IPO applications easy
- Wide product range
Cons
- Higher brokerage than discount brokers
- Complex pricing structure
- Platform can feel dated
ICICI Direct
ICICI Direct by ICICI Direct is a solid choice for Indian investors looking for a reliable trading and demat account. With equity delivery brokerage at Zero and intraday at ₹20 per order, it offers competitive pricing in the market.
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Eligibility
Minimum Age
18 years
Required Documents:
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Bank Statement
Investment Risk
Trading in securities market is subject to market risks. Read all related documents before investing.