Brokerage Calculator
Calculate total trading charges including brokerage, STT, exchange fees, GST, and stamp duty. Compare costs across Zerodha, Groww, Angel One, Upstox, and more.
Last updated: 2026-03-28
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Important: This calculator provides estimates based on the inputs and assumptions you provide. Results are mathematical projections, not financial advice or recommendations. Actual outcomes will vary based on market conditions, policy changes, individual circumstances, and factors not captured by this tool. Verify all figures independently and consult qualified professionals before making financial decisions.
Breakdown of Trading Charges in India
When you buy or sell stocks, futures, or options on Indian exchanges, the actual cost goes beyond just brokerage. Understanding every component helps you estimate the true cost of each trade and choose the right broker.
Components of Trading Charges
- Brokerage: The fee your broker charges per trade. Discount brokers charge a flat ₹20 per order (or zero for delivery), while full-service brokers charge 0.25%–0.55% of trade value.
- STT (Securities Transaction Tax): Government tax on securities transactions — 0.1% on delivery (buy + sell), 0.025% on intraday (sell side only).
- Exchange Transaction Charges: Charged by NSE (0.00297%) and BSE (0.00375%) on the turnover value.
- GST: 18% on the sum of brokerage and exchange transaction charges.
- SEBI Turnover Fee: A nominal 0.0001% charged by SEBI on all exchange transactions.
- Stamp Duty: Charged on the buy side, rates vary by state — typically 0.003% for delivery and 0.002% for intraday.
Discount Brokers vs Full-Service Brokers
Discount brokers like Zerodha, Groww, and Upstox offer flat-fee pricing (₹20 or less per order) with no-frills trading platforms. Full-service brokers like ICICI Direct, HDFC Securities, and Kotak Securities charge percentage-based brokerage but offer research reports, advisory services, and dedicated relationship managers.
For active traders executing multiple orders daily, discount brokers can save thousands in brokerage alone. For long-term investors making occasional purchases, the difference is less significant — especially since many discount brokers now offer zero brokerage on equity delivery.
Impact on Returns
On a ₹1,00,000 delivery trade, total charges (brokerage + STT + exchange + GST + stamp duty) typically range from ₹110–₹150 at a discount broker and ₹350–₹600 at a full-service broker. For intraday, charges are lower because STT is only on the sell side, but frequent trading amplifies the cumulative cost significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is STT and when is it charged?
Securities Transaction Tax (STT) is a tax levied on every purchase and sale of securities listed on Indian stock exchanges. For equity delivery, STT is 0.1% on both buy and sell sides. For intraday, it is 0.025% on the sell side only. For F&O, STT rates differ by instrument — 0.0125% on sell side for futures and 0.0625% on sell side for options (on premium).
Why are charges different for delivery and intraday trading?
Intraday trades are squared off the same day, so brokers charge lower brokerage (often ₹20 per order at discount brokers). Delivery trades involve actual transfer of shares to your demat account, incurring higher STT (0.1% on both sides vs 0.025% sell-side only for intraday) and DP charges (₹15–₹18 per sell transaction).
Which is the cheapest broker in India?
Discount brokers like Zerodha, Groww, and Upstox charge ₹20 per executed order (or zero for delivery at some brokers). Zerodha charges zero brokerage on equity delivery and ₹20 for intraday/F&O. Groww also offers zero delivery brokerage. Full-service brokers like ICICI Direct and HDFC Securities charge percentage-based brokerage, typically 0.25%–0.55%.
What are the hidden charges in stock trading?
Beyond brokerage, traders pay STT, exchange transaction charges (NSE: 0.00297%, BSE: 0.00375%), SEBI turnover fee (0.0001%), GST (18% on brokerage + exchange charges), stamp duty (varies by state, typically 0.003%–0.015%), and DP charges (₹15–₹18 per sell transaction for delivery). These can add up to 0.1%–0.5% of trade value.
How can I reduce my trading costs?
Use a discount broker with flat-fee pricing. Trade in higher quantities per order rather than multiple small orders to minimize per-order charges. For long-term investing, use brokers with zero delivery brokerage. Avoid frequent intraday trading as STT, brokerage, and taxes add up. Consider direct mutual funds to eliminate distributor commissions entirely.
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Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Brokerage rates, STT, and other charges are subject to change. Verify current rates with your broker before trading. Past charge structures do not guarantee future rates.