Zerodha’s Margin Trading Facility (MTF) — introduced later than many rivals — has already captured around 5% of the segment’s market share, according to founder and CEO Nithin Kamath. Despite minimal promotion and a cautious rollout, the brokerage’s entry into MTF has attracted participation from traders seeking leveraged delivery positions.
Quiet but Steady Adoption
Zerodha, India’s largest discount broker, traditionally avoided MTF because of concerns over risk and client misuse. However, increasing demand from customers and competitive pressure led the firm to eventually introduce the facility. Even with a late start, the 5% share gain indicates strong latent interest among retail investors.
Kamath noted that Zerodha did not aggressively market MTF, choosing instead to prioritise user education and careful risk controls. This restrained strategy contrasts with other brokers that actively promote margin products to drive volumes.
Retail Cost Awareness a Key Issue
Despite the early traction, Kamath also highlighted what he called a “cost blind spot” among retail traders. Many investors — particularly those focused on delivery trades and longer-term investing — may not fully appreciate the cost of borrowing and financing charges associated with margin facilities. This gap in awareness can lead to higher effective trading costs and unexpected losses if positions move against traders.
Analysts say that while MTF can be a useful tool for experienced traders, its costs and risks require careful understanding — especially since borrowing charges can erode returns on longer holding periods if not managed prudently.
Outlook
Zerodha’s measured approach to MTF reflects its broader philosophy of client-centric, cost-transparent brokerage. The firm has resisted aggressive product pushes, instead focusing on helping users understand the mechanics and implications of margin products. If retail cost awareness improves, MTF adoption may continue to rise without exposing inexperienced traders to undue risk.
