Intraday Trading in India: Key Trends, Risks, and Insights for 2025

Intraday trading in India’s equity markets has witnessed a dramatic transformation in recent years, drawing in millions of new participants with the allure of quick profits. Yet, beneath the surface of this trading boom lies a sobering reality: the vast majority of individual traders are struggling to succeed. As the market continues to evolve in 2025, understanding the latest trends and risks in intraday trading has never been more critical for investors and market observers alike.

Surge in Participation, But Mounting Losses

The number of individuals engaging in intraday trading has soared by over 300% since 2019, reaching nearly 7 million traders in the 2022-23 fiscal year. This explosive growth means that about one in four market participants now trades intraday. However, this surge has not translated into widespread profitability. In the most recent financial year, a striking 71% of individual intraday traders incurred net losses, up from 65% just four years prior. The data underscores a crucial point: while intraday trading offers opportunity, it also presents significant risks, especially for the inexperienced.

Who Is Trading—and Losing?

Younger traders are driving much of the growth in intraday activity. The share of traders under 30 years old has jumped from 18% in 2019 to 48% in 2023. Yet, this demographic faces even steeper odds: 76% of traders under 30 reported losses, a higher proportion than any other age group. Furthermore, loss-makers not only lose capital but also spend an additional 57% of their losses on trading costs such as brokerage and taxes, compounding the financial impact.

Trading Frequency and the Odds of Success

The data reveals a clear pattern: the more frequently an individual trades, the higher their likelihood of incurring losses. Among those executing more than 500 trades per year, the loss rate rises to 80%. Interestingly, while the average loss per trader has dropped from ₹20,701 in 2019 to ₹5,371 in 2023—likely due to the influx of smaller, less-capitalized traders—the overall odds remain stacked against most participants. Only a small minority manage to consistently profit from intraday strategies.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Traders

Intraday trading in India is more accessible than ever, but the risks are substantial. The latest trends highlight that most retail traders face losses, especially the young and high-frequency traders. For those considering entering the market, a disciplined approach, risk management, and continuous learning are essential to improve the odds of success.