Forex trading has surged in popularity across India over recent years as more traders explore opportunities to diversify their portfolios.
However, the Indian forex market operates under a unique, strictly regulated environment governed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
In this article, we present expert reviews and rankings of the best forex brokers for Indian traders in 2025 while outlining everything you need to know about legal trading, platforms, fees, and more.
Which Is the Best Forex Broker in India?
Identifying the best forex broker depends on your trading style, required features, and cost structure. Leading names frequently mentioned by experts include:
- FP Markets – Known for its competitive spreads (with options for raw ECN pricing), multiple trading platforms (MT4, MT5, cTrader), and excellent liquidity.
- IG.com – Praised for its global regulatory pedigree, diverse asset selection, and robust trading platforms.
- Exness and Eightcap – Popular for low minimum deposits, flexible account types, and access to international markets.
These brokers are renowned not only for low trading fees and advanced platforms but also for their long-term reputations and strong SEBI/RBI-aligned regulatory frameworks.
India Forex Brokers List
Below is a sample comparison table of top SEBI-regulated brokers (many also regulated internationally) serving Indian clients.
What is the SEBI Regulation: For Indian investors, choosing a broker that isn’t SEBI regulated means that the investor protection mechanisms you’d normally expect under Indian law won’t apply.
SEBI Regulated Brokers
Below is a list of several well‐known brokers in India that are regulated by SEBI, which means they must adhere to strict guidelines aimed at protecting investors:
- Zerodha
One of India’s largest discount brokers, Zerodha, is SEBI registered and offers a user-friendly trading platform (Kite) along with low brokerage fees. - ICICI Direct
A full‐service broker with seamless banking integration through ICICI Bank, ICICI Direct is also SEBI regulated and provides a wide range of investment products. - HDFC Securities
Known for its robust research and strong banking ties with HDFC Bank, HDFC Securities is SEBI-regulated and popular among many Indian investors. - Sharekhan
With an extensive branch network across India and a comprehensive suite of research tools, Sharekhan is another prominent SEBI registered broker. - Angel One (formerly Angel Broking)
A well-established full‐service broker with a focus on retail investors, Angel One is SEBI registered and offers competitive pricing and advanced trading tools. - Motilal Oswal
Recognized for its in‐depth research reports and advisory services, Motilal Oswal is also SEBI-regulated and caters to both retail and institutional investors. - 5paisa
A popular discount broker in India, 5paisa is SEBI registered and is known for its low-cost trading solutions and accessible platforms. - Kotak Securities
A subsidiary of Kotak Mahindra Bank, Kotak Securities is SEBI-regulated and offers integrated banking and brokerage services for a streamlined experience.
These brokers must meet the regulatory standards set by SEBI, which include rigorous KYC, fund segregation, and periodic audits, giving you a higher level of protection compared to non-SEBI-regulated entities. (“The forex brokers listed above are SEBI-regulated, but trading remains at your own risk.”) Below is a list of the best brokers reviewed by our team.
Best Forex Brokers List in India
The table is structured to compare the company name, regulatory body, average spread on EUR/USD (Standard account), minimum deposit, Trust Pilot score, and overall rating:
Company | Broker Reviews | Regulated by SEBI | Avg. Spread EUR/USD (Standard) | Minimum Deposit | Trust Pilot Score | Overall Rating | Company Website |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Read Review | ✅ Yes | 0.59 | $0 | ![]() |
4.7/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.4 | $100 | ![]() |
4.5/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.93 | $100 | ![]() |
4.6/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.6 | $5 | ![]() |
4.2/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.8 | $100 | ![]() |
4.2/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.2 | $100 AUD | ![]() |
4.5/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.62 | $200 | ![]() |
4.9/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.30 | $50 | ![]() |
4.2/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.0 | $100 | ![]() |
4.0/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.59 | $0 | ![]() |
4.0/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.8 | $25 | ![]() |
4.0/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.51 | $100 | ![]() |
4.5/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 1.2 | $20 | ![]() |
4.5/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.71 | $0 | ![]() |
3.9/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | N/A | $250 | ![]() |
3.5/5 | Visit Site |
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Read Review | … | 0.98 | £250 | ![]() |
5.0/5 | Visit Site |
Is Forex Trading Legal in India? / Can I Trade Forex in India?
Yes, forex trading is legal in India, but with important restrictions. Indian law allows retail forex trading only through currency futures and options on recognized exchanges (such as NSE and BSE) for specific pairs (e.g., USD/INR, EUR/INR, GBP/INR, and JPY/INR).
All brokers offering these services must be approved by SEBI and comply with RBI’s guidelines under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). This framework protects traders while maintaining stability in the national currency reserves.
What Are the Most Trusted Forex Brokers?
Trusted brokers in India are those with a long history, robust regulatory oversight, and consistently positive client reviews. Among the most trusted are:
- FP Markets – Praised for its transparent ECN pricing and multiple trading platforms.
- IG.com – Valued for its global regulatory licenses and diversified asset offering.
- Exness – Recognized for its low fees and flexible account types.
- Zerodha – Widely regarded as India’s largest retail broker with stringent SEBI registration (especially for derivatives, including forex).
These brokers have maintained reputations for reliability, transparency, and excellent customer support over the years.
What Is India’s Largest Broker?
For retail trading overall in India, Zerodha is often cited as the largest broker by active client base and trading volume. Although primarily known for equities, Zerodha also offers currency derivatives trading through SEBI-approved channels.
Its extensive reach, innovative platforms like Kite, and strong focus on customer education make it a top choice for many Indian traders.
Is Forex Taxed in India?
Yes, forex trading profits in India are subject to taxation. Depending on how the trading income is classified, either as business income or capital gains, profits may be taxed at rates ranging from 5% to 30% (or as per applicable income tax slabs).
Short-term capital gains (for positions held less than 12 months) are typically taxed at a higher rate than long-term gains. Additionally, traders must maintain meticulous records for accurate tax filing and consider consulting a tax advisor to ensure compliance with Indian tax laws.
Can I Trade Forex with $100?
Yes, many brokers offer low minimum deposit accounts that allow you to start trading forex with as little as $100 or even less.
For example, brokers like Exness and FXTM provide micro accounts with low entry deposits. This makes it possible for beginners to access the market, test their strategies in a live environment, and gradually increase their exposure as they gain experience.
Can I Use MetaTrader in India?
Absolutely. MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) are among the most popular trading platforms in India and are offered by many leading brokers such as FP Markets, IG.com, FXTM, and Eightcap.
These platforms provide advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and automated trading capabilities, making them suitable for both beginners and professional traders.
What Is the Best MT4 Broker in India?
When it comes to MT4, brokers like FP Markets, IG.com, and FXTM stand out. These brokers are known for:
- Low Spreads: Offering competitive pricing on major pairs.
- Fast Execution: Ensuring minimal slippage during volatile market conditions.
- Robust Tools: Providing additional expert advisors (EAs), custom indicators, and reliable market data.
These features make them ideal for traders who rely on MT4’s automation and technical analysis capabilities.
Which Bank Is Best for Forex Trading?
In India, major banks such as HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank do offer forex services primarily for remittances and hedging for corporate clients.
However, when it comes to active retail forex trading, these banks typically lack the competitive spreads, advanced trading platforms, and comprehensive research tools available from dedicated forex brokers.
Thus, for active forex trading, it is generally recommended to trade through specialized forex brokers rather than traditional banks.
Which Forex Broker Has the Lowest Fees?
Low trading costs are a key factor for active traders. Brokers like FP Markets and FXTM often offer very low spreads and competitive commission structures, sometimes featuring zero-fee deposit options and even rebate programs.
A detailed fee comparison table (like the one above) can help you quickly assess which broker best suits your cost-sensitive trading style.
How to Start Trading in India
Getting started with forex trading in India involves a few straightforward steps:
- Choose a Broker: Select a SEBI/RBI-regulated forex broker.
- Open an Account: Complete the online application and submit the required KYC documents (proof of identity, address, and bank details).
- Fund Your Account: Deposit funds using local payment methods (bank transfer, UPI, credit/debit cards, or e-wallets).
- Download the Trading Platform: Install your chosen platform (MT4/MT5, or the broker’s proprietary platform).
- Practice with a Demo Account: Test your strategies risk-free before trading live.
- Begin Trading: Start with small positions and manage risk using stop-loss orders and proper money management.
Following these steps helps ensure a smooth entry into the regulated forex market in India.
How Do I Find a Good Forex Broker?
When searching for a reliable forex broker in India, consider the following checklist:
- Regulation: Verify that the broker is approved by SEBI and follows RBI guidelines.
- Fees & Spreads: Compare trading costs, including spreads, commissions, and any hidden fees.
- Trading Platforms: Ensure the broker offers robust, user-friendly platforms (MT4/MT5, web platforms, mobile apps).
- Customer Support: Look for prompt, multilingual support (especially in Hindi or regional languages).
- Educational Resources: Check if the broker provides training, research tools, and demo accounts.
- Deposit/Withdrawal Methods: Confirm the availability of local payment options (UPI, bank transfers).
Using this checklist, you can evaluate brokers effectively before making a decision.
Best Forex Trading App in India
For traders who value mobile flexibility, several apps stand out:
- Zerodha Kite: Offers a sleek interface, real-time data, and customizable charts.
- Angel Broking App: Known for its intuitive design and comprehensive research tools.
- Upstox Pro: Provides low brokerage fees with efficient order execution and multiple device compatibility.
- OCTA App: Specially designed for forex and CFD trading with low spreads and quick withdrawals.
These apps deliver real-time alerts, user-friendly interfaces, and are optimized for fast execution—ideal for traders on the go.
Best Forex Trading Platform in India for Beginners
Beginners should opt for intuitive platforms, offer extensive educational support and have demo account options. Zerodha Kite, 5paisa, and HDFC Securities are excellent choices as they provide:
- Simple, user-friendly interfaces.
- Comprehensive charting tools and technical indicators.
- Demo accounts to practice strategies without risk.
- Dedicated customer support to answer queries.
These platforms help new traders build confidence while learning the ropes in a regulated environment.
High Leverage Forex Brokers in India
Leverage in India is strictly regulated. SEBI guidelines generally cap leverage for forex trading (often around 1:30 for retail traders on INR-based pairs).
However, some international brokers that accept Indian clients might advertise higher leverage on non-INR pairs, but caution is advised as these come with increased risk.
Always choose a leverage level that aligns with your risk tolerance and trading strategy.
Last Thoughts
In summary, the best forex brokers in India for 2025 are those that combine competitive fees, robust trading platforms (including MT4/MT5), and strict adherence to SEBI and RBI regulations.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional trader, choosing a broker with strong customer support, transparent fee structures, and local payment solutions will enhance your trading experience.
Always perform due diligence and start with a small deposit while you get accustomed to the market’s nuances.
FAQs
Q1. Is forex trading legal in India?
Yes, forex trading is legal if conducted through SEBI- and RBI-approved channels and only for approved currency pairs involving INR.
Q2. Can I trade forex with a small deposit?
Yes, many brokers offer micro accounts allowing you to start trading with as little as $100.
Q3. Which trading platforms are most popular in India?
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) and MetaTrader 5 (MT5) are widely used, along with platforms like Zerodha Kite and proprietary apps from brokers like Angel Broking.
Q4. How is leverage regulated for Indian traders?
For INR-based forex trading, leverage is typically capped at around 1:30, though some offshore brokers may offer higher leverage on other pairs, but with added risk.
Q5. What taxes apply to forex trading profits in India?
Forex trading profits are taxed as either business income or capital gains, depending on the nature and frequency of your trades. Consult a tax advisor for personalized guidance.