When it comes to online stockbroking in India, two prominent names that often surface are Angel Broking and Sharekhan. Both of these platforms have earned substantial recognition for their services, providing investors with a wide array of tools and support to trade effectively. However, these brokers cater to different needs and offer distinct features that could make one a better choice depending on your investment goals, trading style, and financial preferences. In this comprehensive comparison, we will explore various facets of each broker, including pricing, trading platforms, tools, services, account types, customer support, and more.
1. Overview of Angel Broking and Sharekhan
Angel Broking: A Brief Introduction
Angel Broking, founded in 1987, has evolved into one of the leading discount brokers in India. With more than three decades of experience in the stockbroking industry, Angel Broking offers a wide range of trading services, including equity, commodity, currency, and derivatives trading. The platform provides multiple channels for trading, including its web platform, mobile app, and desktop application, catering to both novice and experienced investors.
Angel Broking has a strong reputation for offering affordable trading options, competitive brokerage rates, and customer-friendly services. With over 1 million clients, it is among the most trusted stockbroking firms in India.
Sharekhan: A Brief Introduction
Sharekhan, established in 2000, is one of the most recognized full-service brokers in India. Known for its extensive research and advisory services, Sharekhan offers a diverse set of trading services, such as equity, commodities, derivatives, and mutual funds. Unlike Angel Broking, Sharekhan is a full-service broker, meaning it provides not only execution services but also research, investment advice, and personalized support.
Sharekhan has been operational for over two decades and is part of the BNP Paribas Group, one of the world’s largest banking groups. Its reach is extensive, with branches across India and a loyal customer base. The firm is highly regarded for its in-depth research reports, advanced trading tools, and quality customer service.
Summary:
While Angel Broking is known for its low-cost, discount broking model, Sharekhan stands out as a full-service broker with comprehensive research offerings and personalized advice.
2. Brokerage Charges and Pricing Comparison
One of the most significant factors that differentiate Angel Broking and Sharekhan is the brokerage structure.
Angel Broking Brokerage Charges
Angel Broking follows a discount brokerage model. This means that it offers lower brokerage charges compared to full-service brokers like Sharekhan. The brokerage fees are as follows:
- Equity Delivery: 0.15% per executed order
- Equity Intraday and Futures: 0.03% per executed order
- Equity Options: Rs. 20 per order
- Commodities: 0.03% per executed order
Angel Broking also provides a flat-rate model for those interested in simplifying their cost structure. The monthly subscription fee for the flat rate is Rs. 20 per order for intraday and F&O trading, regardless of the order size. This can be especially beneficial for traders who execute high-frequency trades.
Sharekhan Brokerage Charges
As a full-service broker, Sharekhan’s brokerage fees are slightly higher than Angel Broking’s, reflecting the additional research, advisory, and personalized services it provides. Sharekhan’s brokerage charges are as follows:
- Equity Delivery: 0.50% to 0.75% per executed order
- Equity Intraday and Futures: 0.05% to 0.10% per executed order
- Equity Options: Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 per lot
- Commodities: 0.10% per executed order
Sharekhan also offers different plans depending on the volume of trading, such as its Prime Plan, which provides discounted rates for high-frequency traders. However, compared to Angel Broking, Sharekhan’s pricing is on the higher end due to its full-service approach.
Summary:
Angel Broking offers a more affordable and transparent pricing model, especially suited for active traders, while Sharekhan’s pricing is higher due to its full-service offerings and premium services.
3. Trading Platforms and Tools
Angel Broking Trading Platforms
Angel Broking provides various platforms to facilitate seamless trading across different asset classes:
- Angel One (Mobile App): This is the flagship mobile app offering real-time stock tracking, advanced charting tools, market analysis, and instant execution capabilities.
- Angel Broking Web Platform: A robust and easy-to-use web platform for traders who prefer not to download an app. It provides comprehensive features, including portfolio tracking and market news.
- Angel Broking Desktop Trading Terminal: A downloadable platform for advanced traders that offers features like real-time alerts, customizable charts, and direct market access.
Additionally, Angel Broking’s SmartAPI allows developers to integrate Angel Broking’s trading system into their own applications, making it a great option for algorithmic traders.
Sharekhan Trading Platforms
Sharekhan also offers a variety of trading platforms:
- Sharekhan TradeTiger: A desktop-based trading platform that provides advanced charting, real-time data, and order execution. It is designed for active traders and offers powerful tools like market depth, live quotes, and backtesting.
- Sharekhan Mobile App: The Sharekhan mobile app provides users with a user-friendly interface for trading stocks, mutual funds, and commodities. It comes with features such as live market data, portfolio tracking, and analysis tools.
- Sharekhan Web Trading Platform: A web-based platform with features like real-time market updates, customizable watchlists, and detailed stock analysis tools.
Summary:
Both brokers provide robust platforms, but Sharekhan’s TradeTiger and Angel Broking’s SmartAPI stand out for advanced traders. If you prefer using mobile or web platforms, both brokers offer comparable experiences.
4. Research and Advisory Services
Angel Broking Research Services
Angel Broking offers research reports and market insights but does not emphasize advisory services to the same extent as Sharekhan. They provide:
- Daily Market Commentary: Updates on market trends, stock movements, and predictions.
- Technical and Fundamental Analysis Reports: For equity, commodities, and other markets.
- Stock Recommendations: Based on thorough research, though not as personalized as Sharekhan’s advisory services.
Sharekhan Research Services
Sharekhan is renowned for its research and advisory services. The firm provides:
- In-Depth Research Reports: On stocks, commodities, and mutual funds. The reports are comprehensive and based on rigorous analysis.
- Personalized Investment Advice: Sharekhan offers tailor-made investment strategies for its customers.
- Portfolio Management Services (PMS): For high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) looking for advanced portfolio strategies.
Summary:
Sharekhan excels in offering premium research, analysis, and personalized advisory services, making it a better option for investors who value professional guidance.
5. Account Types and Plans
Angel Broking Account Types
Angel Broking offers a simple account opening process with minimal documentation required. The types of accounts available include:
- Equity Trading Account: Allows you to invest in stocks, IPOs, and bonds.
- Demat Account: For holding securities in electronic form.
- Commodity and Currency Account: For trading in commodities and currencies.
Angel Broking also provides different plans tailored to various investor needs, such as flat-fee and percentage-based plans.
Sharekhan Account Types
Sharekhan offers a range of account types, including:
- Equity and Derivatives Account
- Commodities Account
- Demat and Trading Account
- Mutual Fund Account
Sharekhan also offers value-added services through premium plans like Sharekhan Prime, which includes discounted brokerage and access to personalized advisory.
Summary:
Both brokers provide a wide range of account types, but Sharekhan’s premium offerings may appeal more to investors seeking additional support and services.
6. Customer Support and Service
Angel Broking Customer Support
Angel Broking’s customer service includes:
- 24/7 support via phone and email
- Online chat and ticketing system
- Extensive knowledge base and FAQs
However, some customers have reported that Angel Broking’s support response time can sometimes be slow during high-traffic periods.
Sharekhan Customer Support
Sharekhan offers exceptional customer service, with:
- Dedicated relationship managers
- 24/7 customer support via multiple channels
- Offline services at branch offices
Sharekhan’s customer support is generally praised for its responsiveness and quality.
Summary:
While Angel Broking provides adequate customer support, Sharekhan’s service quality is often considered superior, particularly in terms of personalized support and offline services.
7. Final Verdict: Angel Broking vs Sharekhan
Both Angel Broking and Sharekhan are excellent choices for different types of investors and traders. If you are a cost-conscious, active trader looking for low brokerage fees and a user-friendly trading experience, Angel Broking might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you are an investor who seeks more personalized services, research-based guidance, and are willing to pay slightly higher fees for these premium features, Sharekhan would be a better choice.
Summary of Key Points:
- Brokerage Fees: Angel Broking has a clear edge in terms of lower and more affordable brokerage fees.
- Trading Platforms: Both brokers provide solid platforms, with Sharekhan offering a slight edge for advanced traders.
- Research and Advisory: Sharekhan offers more comprehensive research and personalized advisory services.
- Customer Support: Sharekhan stands out for offering superior customer service, especially with relationship managers.
Ultimately, your choice depends on what you prioritize—low-cost trading or extensive support and advisory services.
