Do Not Call
Margin trading in the Indian share market enables investors to purchase securities by borrowing funds from brokers, using existing securities or cash as collateral. It allows greater exposure with limited capital, and when used cautiously, can support risk mitigation strategies such as hedging or short-term liquidity management. Understanding how margin trading works is essential to navigate its benefits and avoid unintended risks.
Margin trading offers investors an opportunity to leverage positions. It involves borrowing money from a broker to buy securities beyond the investor's available capital.
Margin trading refers to the practice of buying securities by partially using one's own funds and borrowing the rest from the broker. The borrowed amount is secured against securities or cash held in the investor's account. This allows the investor to hold a larger position than they could using only their own capital.
The Margin Trading Facility (MTF) is a service provided by brokers, regulated by SEBI, which allows investors to trade in specific approved securities by paying only a fraction of the total transaction amount. The remaining balance is provided by the broker. Investors must ensure that they maintain the required margin levels throughout the duration of the trade.
Margin systems incorporate mechanisms to reduce exposure and ensure both brokers and investors operate within defined risk parameters:
When an investor uses MTF, they must pledge eligible securities or cash. The broker defines the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio, which determines the amount that can be borrowed against the pledged assets. For instance, an LTV of 50% means the investor must fund at least half the trade value.
A margin call is triggered when the collateral value falls below a defined maintenance level. This requires the investor to add funds or securities to restore the margin balance. Maintenance margins ensure that the broker's exposure remains protected against market volatility.
Different formats of margin trading are available in India, depending on the platform and structure:
e Margin trading refers to executing margin trades through online platforms where funds are electronically settled and positions are monitored in real-time. It eliminates physical paperwork, offering convenience and speed.
In broader terms, margin trading in the share market includes all formats where leveraged positions are built by pledging assets or cash to brokers. It is commonly used in intraday trading, positional equity trading, and short-term arbitrage strategies.
A margin trade typically follows these steps:
Investor selects an MTF-approved security
Places an order through a margin-enabled account
Broker blocks required margin amount (cash/securities)
Trade is executed using investor and borrowed funds
Investor pays interest on borrowed funds if positions are carried forward
On sale, broker adjusts the borrowed amount before crediting profit/loss
Understanding this workflow helps manage funding, compliance, and margin calls efficiently.
While margin trading offers strategic financial benefits, it also includes potential risks that should be evaluated carefully:
Enables larger positions with limited capital
Supports hedging strategies
Allows capital allocation flexibility
Facilitates quick liquidity in volatile markets
Losses can exceed initial investment due to leverage
Daily interest cost on borrowed amount
Margin calls can result in forced liquidation
Exposure to short-term volatility increases
Margin trading is suitable only when investors understand the obligations and maintain adequate capital buffers.
Margin trading empowers investors to access higher-value trades through borrowed capital. When executed with caution, it can support short-term strategies and capital efficiency. However, a clear understanding of margin requirements, collateral valuation, and risk management is critical to avoid losses and navigate market swings responsibly.
This content is for informational purposes only and the same should not be construed as investment advice. Bajaj Finserv Direct Limited shall not be liable or responsible for any investment decision that you may take based on this content.
In cash trading, investors pay the full amount for securities upfront. In margin trading, only a portion is paid, and the rest is borrowed from the broker.
A margin call occurs when the value of the investor's pledged securities falls below a maintenance threshold. The broker demands additional margin to cover the exposure.
Margin trading can help manage liquidity or hedge positions but also introduces leverage risk. Risk reduction depends on disciplined strategy and adequate collateral.
Charges include interest on borrowed funds, brokerage fees, GST, and potential penalties for failing to maintain required margin levels.
The broker may liquidate part or all of your holdings to recover the borrowed amount, possibly resulting in losses beyond your initial capital.
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Posted on 18 Aug
Geetanjali Lachke
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