Understand the benefits and challenges of intraday trading to decide whether it fits your investing approach.
Intraday trading, also known as day trading, involves buying and selling financial instruments during the same trading day. Unlike long-term investing, where positions are held for weeks or years, intraday traders close all their positions before the market closes. This style of trading aims to capitalise on small price movements using high volumes and quick execution. While it offers the potential for fast profits, it also comes with a unique set of risks and requirements.
Intraday trading refers to buying and selling stocks or other assets within the same market session, typically through online trading platforms.
Trades are executed with the aim of earning short-term gains from price fluctuations. Intraday traders do not take delivery of shares, and all positions must be squared off before the market closes.
This form of trading requires technical analysis, quick decision-making, and access to real-time data and tools.
Here is a simplified flow of how intraday trading typically operates:
Select stock or asset based on liquidity and volatility.
Analyse price movement using charts and technical indicators.
Enter trade based on your strategy (buy or short-sell).
Set stop-loss and target levels.
Exit trade before the end of the trading session, regardless of profit or loss.
Intraday trading is offered by all major brokers in India and can be done through platforms linked to a demat and trading account.
Intraday trading appeals to many because of its distinct advantages, especially for active traders seeking agility and short-term opportunities:
Since trades are closed by end of day, traders avoid news-based or geopolitical risks that can impact prices overnight.
Intraday traders can benefit from small price movements, which may lead to multiple profit opportunities in a single day.
Brokers often allow higher leverage for intraday positions compared to delivery trades. This allows traders to take larger positions with limited capital.
Day traders typically focus on highly liquid stocks or indices, making it easier to enter and exit positions quickly.
Since no shares are taken for delivery, traders save on depository participant (DP) charges and other fees related to holding stocks.
While intraday trading offers opportunities for quick gains, it also comes with significant drawbacks that traders must carefully consider before diving in:
Intraday trading can be volatile. Sudden market moves may trigger stop-losses or lead to unanticipated losses if trades are not well managed.
The trader must stay glued to the screen to track prices, monitor news, and execute trades swiftly. This can be time-consuming and stressful.
Frequent trading incurs brokerage, exchange fees, and taxes. These costs can reduce net profits if not accounted for properly.
Intraday trading often leads to emotionally driven decisions, especially under pressure. Fear, greed, and impatience can derail strategy execution.
Success in intraday trading depends heavily on understanding charts, patterns, and indicators. Without proper knowledge, it's easy to misread signals.
Intraday trading is better suited for individuals who:
Have a high-risk appetite
Can dedicate time during market hours
Possess knowledge of technical analysis
Are comfortable with fast decision-making
Use strict risk management techniques
It is not recommended for those looking for passive or long-term investing strategies, or for individuals new to the stock market without adequate preparation.
Each strategy requires testing, discipline, and risk controls to be effective.
| Strategy Name |
Description |
|---|---|
| Momentum Trading |
Focuses on stocks that are moving strongly in one direction. |
| Breakout Trading |
Trades based on price breaking through support or resistance. |
| Reversal Trading |
Bets on trend reversal after overbought or oversold signals. |
| Scalping |
Multiple quick trades aiming for small profits. |
Before Starting Intraday Trading consider the following:
Understanding of charts, candlestick patterns, and indicators like RSI, MACD, and Bollinger Bands is crucial.
Pick a trading platform that offers real-time charts, fast execution, and low transaction costs.
Use of stop-loss orders, target settings, and position sizing is essential to protect capital.
Many platforms offer paper trading or demo accounts. These can be a good starting point to test strategies without financial risk.
Intraday trading can offer opportunities for those who have the time, skill, and temperament to manage short-term trades. While it comes with the allure of quick profits, it also involves higher stress and substantial risk. Aspiring intraday traders should focus on building their technical knowledge, practising discipline, and developing a solid strategy before entering live markets.
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.
Intraday trading is regulated by SEBI and can be done through registered brokers on exchanges like NSE and BSE.
Yes, some brokers allow conversion before the cut-off time. Additional margin or delivery charges may apply.
The capital required for intraday trading depends on factors such as margin policies set by brokers, exchange regulations, stock volatility, lot sizes, and the trader’s risk management approach. These elements together influence the minimum funds needed.
Beginners should be aware of factors such as market volatility, strict margin requirements, transaction costs, and the need for discipline in risk management. They must also understand that intraday trading carries higher risks than long-term investing.
A standard demat and trading account is sufficient. Most platforms allow you to choose between intraday and delivery mode at the time of placing a trade.
Intraday trading involves buying and selling stocks within the same trading day, with no overnight holding. Trades are closed before market close, and profits or losses depend on short-term price movements and market volatility.
Leverage allows traders to take larger positions than their capital permits. However, it can magnify both gains and losses, making prudent margin management essential.
Intraday trading requires skills such as technical chart analysis, quick decision-making, discipline in following strategies, and effective risk management. Traders must also monitor news and market developments closely to respond to rapid price movements.
Intraday trading focuses on short-term price fluctuations, with positions opened and closed within a day, often using leverage. Long-term investing involves holding securities for extended periods, relying on fundamentals and compounding to build gradual wealth.