New to investing? Here’s How to Pick the Right Stock Broker

New to investing? Here’s How to Pick the Right Stock Broker

25 Apr 2025
New to investing? Here’s How to Pick the Right Stock Broker

Getting started with the stock market is a financially prudent move. It gives you a chance to grow your money over time by investing in companies and benefiting from the economy’s progress. But here’s the catch—you cannot directly buy or sell shares on stock exchanges like the National Stock Exchange (NSE) or the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE).

For that, you need a stock broker—an intermediary registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) who places orders on your behalf and gives you access to the stock market.

Why is Choosing the Right Broker Important?

With so many broking firms and stock trading platforms out there, it’s essential you take some time and pick a stock broker that's right for you. Some brokers may offer low-cost trades but limited features. Other brokers might give you quality research tools but charge significantly higher fees.

Hence, choosing the right broker is more than just clicking “Sign Up.” It’s about finding a trusted partner who fits your investing style, trading goals, and budget. When you choose a well-suited trading platform, you increase your chances of maximising returns and having a smoother stock market journey.

In this guide, you will learn how to choose the right stock market broker, what to consider before stepping into the market, and whether an online or offline approach is better for you.

How to Choose the Right Stock Market Broker

There are a few important factors to consider when choosing the right stock market broker. Considering these factors can make the process less overwhelming.

1. Is the Broker SEBI-Registered?

First things first, you need to check if the broker is registered with SEBI since only SEBI-registered brokers can legally execute trades for retail investors.

A legitimate way to check this is to go to SEBI’s official website and access the full SEBI-registered brokers list. This list is regularly updated by SEBI and ensures that you can cross-verify the broker’s SEBI registration number before signing up.

2. Type of Broker: Full-Service or Discount?

Primarily, there are two types of stock market brokers:

  • Full-Service Brokers: Offer advisory, research, wealth planning, and offline support. They are ideal for beginners who are willing to pay a higher fee for expert guidance.
  • Discount Brokers: Provide low-cost, execution-only platforms, usually online. They are great for DIY investors who want control and save on fees.

If you're just starting out and want expert input, a full-service broker might be better suited. But if you're cost-conscious and confident about learning on the go, a discount broking firm could work better for you.

3. Mode of Access: Online vs Offline

You need to decide how you want to interact with your stock broker—through a mobile app or web portal online or through a personal advisor offline.

Here’s a quick comparison between online and offline retail broking to help you decide:

Feature Online Broking Offline broking
How it works You place orders via a mobile app or website You call or visit a broker who places orders for you
Speed and convenience Instant, 24x7 access Depends on the broker’s availability
Cost Lower brokerage (especially with discount brokers) Higher brokerage (especially with full-service brokers)
Customer support Chat, call centre, or ticket-based support One-on-one support, often with a dedicated relationship manager
Features offered Advanced tools like real-time charts, screeners, and portfolio trackers Customised planning, personalised recommendations, tax planning, and more
Flexibility Higher—more control over your portfolio and trades Lower, since you are reliant on your broker for action
Account opening process Instant, paperless, and 100% digital Paperwork required, often assisted onboarding through branch
Suitable for Independent investors, tech-savvy users Investors who require offline support and guidance
Pro Tip: In 2025, a well-suited choice might not be just online or just offline, but a broker that allows you to switch between the two, based on your needs.

You can begin with online broking for daily trades and convenience and keep offline support handy for long-term planning and guidance.

4. Access to Products

Take some time to analyse the investment products offered by the stock broker. The best stock trading platform is the one which offers you the convenience to invest in multiple securities, such as:

  • Stocks and Initial Public Offerings (IPOs)
  • Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
  • Mutual funds
  • Bonds
  • Derivatives
  • Commodities
  • Other structured products

Such a range will allow you to diversify your portfolio to minimise risks and maximise returns. Also, check if the stock market broker provides access to investments outside the Indian market, for example, US stocks. Adding international exposure to your portfolio can be a strategic move.

5. Availability of Research Tools and Market Insights

Whether you want to make short-term trades or build a diversified investment portfolio, it’s important to make informed decisions. For this, access to reliable and timely market data and research tools is critical.

Look for a stock trading platform that provides you access to:

6. Platform Experience

Often, beginners underestimate the role the trading platform plays in making or breaking their stock market experience. To steer clear of that mistake, check if the trading platform provides:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Smooth navigation and low downtime
  • Real-time price tracking and order execution
  • Alerts and notifications for price movements
  • Portfolio performance tracking
  • Easy fund transfers and withdrawals

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Stock Broker

  • Is the broker registered with SEBI?
  • Are they a full-service broker or a discount broker?
  • Do they offer online trading, offline support, or both?
  • Is the trading platform user-friendly and reliable?
  • Do they offer quality research tools and market insights?
  • Are the fees, charges, and commissions transparent?
  • What investment products do they offer (stocks, IPOs, etc.)?
  • Do they allow access to global markets (e.g., US stocks)?
  • How responsive is their customer support?
Remember: The right broker is the one that fits your goals, comfort level, budget, and investing style.

Factors to Consider Before Entering the Share Market

Once you’ve picked the best trading platform or broker and opened a demat account, you might be tempted to immediately place a buy order. But before you dive into the share market, it’s essential to keep these things in mind:

Your Stock Market Journey Begins Here

Choosing the right stock broker is the first step in your stock market journey, and is a crucial one. But it’s not about picking the broker with the lowest fees or the fanciest online platforms. It’s about finding a trustworthy, SEBI-registered broker that aligns with your investing preferences and comfort level—whether that’s online, offline, or a mix of both.

Once you’ve done your due diligence and selected the best stock trading platform, take the time to learn, experiment, and grow gradually in the share market. When you approach the stock market with the right stock broker, patience, and goal-based strategies, it can be a powerful tool for building wealth and meeting other financial goals.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an endorsement of any broker or service. Investors should consult a SEBI-registered advisor before making decisions. Monarch Networth Capital Limited is not liable for any actions taken based on this content.
Sebi Mandated Risk Disclosure: Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Past performance is not indicative of future returns. Read all related documents carefully.
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Investor Announcements

Name of the Company has changed from Networth Stock Broking Limited to Monarch Networth Capital Limited upon Certification of Incorporation received from Registrar of Companies, Mumbai vide certificate dated 13th October, 2015.

    • KYC is one time exercise while dealing in securities markets-once KYC is done through a SEBI registered intermediary (Broker, DP, Mutual Fund etc.), You need not undergo the same process again when you approach another intermediary.
    • No need to issue cheques by investors while subscribing to IPO. Just write the bank account number and sign in the application form to authorize your bank to make payment in case of allotment. No worries for refund as the money remains in investor’s account.
    • Prevent Unauthorized Transactions in your demat account - > Update your Mobile Number with your Depository Participant. Receive alert on your Registered Mobile for All Debit and other important transactions. In your demat account directly from depository on the same day.
    • Stock Brokers can accept securities as margin from clients only by way of pledge in the depository system w.e.f. September 1, 2020.
    • Update your mobile number & email Id with your stock broker/depository participant and receive OTP directly from depository on your email id and/or mobile number to create pledge.
    • Pay 20% upfront margin of the transaction value to trade in cash market segment.
    • Investors may please refer to the Exchange’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) issued vide circular reference NSE/INSP/45191 dated July 31, 2020 and NSE/INSP/45534 dated August 31, 2020 and other guidelines issued from time to time in this regard.
    • Check your Securities /MF/ Bonds in the consolidated account statement issued by NSDL/CDSL every month. Issued in the interest of Investors

    If you are not satisfied with the resolution provided, you can lodge your complaint online at: https://scores.sebi.gov.in/

    Download Pdf

    In case of grievance client can log on to the SMART ODR Portal, if they are unsatisfied with the response provided by us. Your attention is drawn to the SEBI circular no. SEBI/HO/OIAE/OIAE_IAD-1/P/CIR/2023/131 dated July 31, 2023, on “Online Resolution of Disputes in the Indian Securities Market”.

    Download Pdf

  • Purchase of REs only gives buyer the right to participate in the ongoing Rights Issue of the concerned company by making an application with requisite application money or renounce the REs before the issue closes. REs which are neither subscribed by making an application with requisite application money nor renounced, on or before the Issue closing date shall lapse and shall be extinguished after the Issue closing date. Please check your dp account for further details.

  • Please do not share your online trading password with anyone as this could weaken the security of your account and lead to unauthorized trades or losses.
    Monarch Networth Capital Limited (‘MNCL’) | CIN No.: L64990GJ1993PLC120014

    Registered Address

    Unit No. 803-804A, 8th Floor, X-Change Plaza, Block No. 53, Zone 5, Road-5E, Gift City, Gandhinagar - 382050, Gujarat

    Corporate Address

    Ahmedabad

    “Monarch House”, Opp Prahladbhai Patel garden, Near Ishwar Bhuvan, Commerce Six Roads, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad - 380009

    Mumbai

    Monarch Networth Capital Limited, G Block, Laxmi Tower, B Wing, 4th Floor, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai - 400051.

    Contact Details

    Tel:079-26666500 / 6600500
    NPS Email ID:nps@mnclgroup.com
    Compliance Officer:Nikhil Parikh (Click to view details)
    Compliance Email:compliance@mnclgroup.com
    Compliance Tel:+91-79-26666768

    “Filing of complaints on SCORES – Easy & quick
    (Link is given in our useful link option on our website)

    • A. Register on SCORES portal
    • B. Mandatory details for filing complaints on SCORES:
      • I. Name, PAN, Address, Mobile Number, Email ID
    • C. Benefits
      • I. Effective communication
      • II. Speedy redressal of the grievances

    Email for Grievance: grievances@mnclgroup.com

    CLIENT BANK ACCOUNT DETAILS

    Investors are requested to note that Stock broker (Monarch Networth Capital Ltd) is permitted to receive money from investors through designated bank accounts only named as Up streaming Client Nodal Bank Account (USCNBA). Stock broker (Monarch Networth Capital Ltd) is also required to disclose these USCNB accounts to Stock Exchange. Hence, you are requested to use following USCNB accounts only (Click to View) for the purpose of dealings in your trading account with us. The details of these USCNB accounts are also displayed by Stock Exchanges on their website under “Know/ Locate your Stock Broker".

    Registered Numbers

    SEBI Registration No:INZ000008037
    NSE Member ID:06386
    BSE: Member ID :197
    MCX: Member ID :10585
    Date of Admission:28/02/2004
    NCDEX: Member ID :00011
    Date of Admission:06/12/2003
    CDSL-DP ID:35000
    NSDL-DP ID:IN303052
    SEBI Reg (DP):IN-DP-278-2016
  • Complete name of entity registered with SEBI as Portfolio Manager:Monarch Networth Capital Limited
    Type of Registration (Individual, Non-Individual):Non-Individual
    PMS Registration No.:INP000006059
    Corporate Identification No.:L64990GJ1993PLC120014
    Principal Place of Business:301-302, 3rd Floor, Arunachal Building, Barakhamba Road, New Delhi - 110001
    Registered Office Address:Unit No. 803-804A, 8th Floor, X-Change Plaza, Block No. 53, Zone 5, Road-5E, Gift City, Gandhinagar, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, 382050
    Corresponding SEBI regional/local office Address:8th floor, Plate B, Tower 1, NBCC Complex, East Kidwai Nagar, New Delhi – 110023

    Contact Details

    Principal Officer:Md Shaukat Ali
    Contact No.:011-40851303
    Compliance Officer:Diksha Jha
    Contact No.:011-40851312

    Mechanism for addressing grievances and information about SCORES.

    Contacts for Investor Grievance

    pms.grievance@mnclgroup.com

  • Fund Name:Monarch AIF
    Category of AIF :Category III
    AIF Registration number :IN/AIF3/20-21/0787
    Registration Date :April 23, 2020
    Registered Office Address :Laxmi Tower, B Wing, 4th Floor, G Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai 400051

    Contact Details

    Fund Manager:Mr. Abhisar Jain
    Phone :+91 22 66746425
    Compliance Officer:Ms. Yukti Jain
    Phone :+91 22 66746424
  • Complete name of entity registered with SEBI as Merchant Banker:Monarch Networth Capital Limited
    Type of Registration (Individual, Non-Individual):Non-Individual
    MB Registration No.:INM000011013
    Corporate Identification Number:L64990GJ1993PLC120014
    Principal Place of Business:4th FLoor, B Wing, Laxmi Tower, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai-400051
    Registered office address:Unit No. 803-804A, 8th Floor, X-Change Plaza, Block No. 53, Zone 5, Road-5E, Gift City, Gandhinagar, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, 382050

    Contact Details

    Compliance Officer:Mr.Jayesh Bhagwat
    Contact No.:(022) 66476400
    Email for Regulatory Communication:mbdcompliance@mnclgroup.com

    Mechanism for addressing grievances and information about SCORES.

    Contacts for Investor Grievance

    mbd@mnclgroup.com

  • Monarch Networth Capital Limited (‘MNCL’) | CIN No.: L64990GJ1993PLC120014

    Company Secretary & Compliance Officer

    (As per LODR Regulations and Companies Act, 2013)

    Contact information of the designated officials of the listed entity who are responsible for assisting and handling investor grievances : Mr. Nitesh Tanwar

    Monarch Networth Capital Limited

    Registered Address

    Unit No. 803-804A, 8th Floor, X-Change Plaza, Block No. 53, Zone 5, Road-5E, Gift City, Gandhinagar - 382050, Gujarat

    Corporate Address

    Ahmedabad

    “Monarch House”, Opp Prahladbhai Patel garden, Near Ishwar Bhuvan, Commerce Six Roads, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad – 380009

    Mumbai

    Monarch Networth Capital Limited, G Block, Laxmi Tower, B Wing, 4th Floor, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai - 400051.

    Phone: 022 - 66476400 / 66476405

    Email: cs@mnclgroup.com

    Contact Details

    “Filing of complaints on SCORES – Easy & quick
    (Link is given in our useful link option on our website)

    • A. Register on SCORES portal
    • B. Mandatory details for filing complaints on SCORES:
      • I. Name, PAN, Address, Mobile Number, Email ID
    • C. Benefits
      • I. Effective communication
      • II. Speedy redressal of the grievances

    Email for Grievance: cs@mnclgroup.com

    Listing of Equity Shares on Stock Exchange at

    BSE

    Add :Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers, Dalal Street, Mumbai - 400 001
    Scrip Id :Monarch Scrip Code : 511551

    NSE

    Add :Exchange Plaza, C-1, Block G, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (E) Mumbai – 400 051.
    Scrip Id :Monarch Scrip Code : MONARCH

    Demat ISIN Numbers in NSDL & CDSL for

    Equity Shares:INE903D01011

    REGISTRAR AND SHARE TRANSFER AGENT

    MUFG Intime India Private Limited

    (Formerly known as Link Intime India Private Limited)

    Add:C 101, 247 Park, L.B.S. Marg, Vikhroli (West), Mumbai - 400083
    Tel:(0) 810 811 6767
    Toll-free number:1800 1020 878
    Fax:022 - 4918 6060

    Escalation Matrix

Disclaimer

‘Investments in securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.’

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