Over the past decade, the Indian stock market has witnessed a dramatic transformation, especially in the way retail investors interact with financial markets. At the forefront of this revolution is Zerodha, India’s No. 1 stock broker, which has redefined the brokerage industry with its transparent, low-cost, and tech-first approach.
A Disruptive Beginning
Founded in 2010 by Nithin Kamath and Nikhil Kamath, Zerodha entered the market when traditional brokers dominated with high fees and outdated platforms. The Kamath brothers, both traders themselves, envisioned a platform that would eliminate unnecessary brokerage charges and empower retail investors with better tools and transparency.
Why Zerodha Stands Out
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Zero Brokerage on Equity Delivery
Zerodha became a household name by offering zero brokerage on equity delivery trades, a bold move that disrupted traditional pricing models in the industry. -
Flat Fee Model
For intraday and derivatives trading, Zerodha charges a flat ₹20 per trade, regardless of the order size. This model made trading accessible to small and mid-sized investors, significantly reducing costs. -
Kite: A Technology Marvel
The Kite trading platform, developed in-house by Zerodha, is one of the most user-friendly and robust tools in the Indian market. With real-time data, sleek design, and mobile-first accessibility, Kite offers a seamless experience for both new and seasoned traders. -
Educational Initiatives
Zerodha also invests heavily in financial literacy through platforms like Varsity (a free online stock market education portal) and Rainmatter, a fintech incubator supporting financial startups. -
Transparency and Trust
The company has built a reputation for integrity and openness. Unlike some competitors, Zerodha does not rely on hidden charges or aggressive sales tactics, which has earned the trust of over 1.2 crore (12 million) active clients.
Achievements and Market Position
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Largest Retail Broker: As of 2025, Zerodha is the largest retail broker in India by active clients, daily turnover, and trade volumes.
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Bootstrapped Success: Remarkably, Zerodha has never raised external funding and remains a profitable, bootstrapped unicorn, setting a rare example in the startup ecosystem.
The Road Ahead
With growing interest in stock markets among young Indians, Zerodha continues to innovate. From integrating AI for smarter analytics to expanding into mutual funds and long-term investing tools, the firm is committed to being more than just a broker—it aims to be a complete wealth-building platform.
Conclusion
Zerodha’s journey is a testament to how innovation, simplicity, and customer-first thinking can redefine an entire industry. By making investing affordable and accessible, Zerodha has not only become India’s No. 1 broker but also a symbol of financial empowerment for millions.