Long-term investing is the cornerstone of wealth creation. Whether you’re saving for retirement, your children’s education, or building a solid financial future, investing for the long haul offers the potential to generate steady returns and ride out short-term market volatility. But to achieve long-term success, choosing the right stock broker is crucial.
With dozens of brokers in India offering different features, pricing models, and investment options, finding the best broker for long-term investing can be challenging. In this 2025 guide, we break down the best stock brokers in India suited for long-term investors and help you select the right platform based on features, fees, and overall reliability.
Why Choosing the Right Broker Matters for Long-Term Investing
Long-term investing involves holding assets like equities, mutual funds, and ETFs over several years. The key to success lies in consistency, low costs, and informed decision-making. A good stock broker can offer:
- Zero or low brokerage on delivery trades
- Direct mutual fund access (commission-free)
- Robust research and portfolio tracking tools
- User-friendly interface and seamless app experience
- Reliable customer support for long-term service
Let’s explore the top brokers that deliver all this and more in 2025.
1. Zerodha – Best for Cost-Effective Long-Term Investors
Zerodha is India’s largest and most trusted discount broker, ideal for long-term investors who want to minimize costs. The platform charges zero brokerage on equity delivery and offers a smooth and feature-rich platform called Kite.
Key Features:
- Zero brokerage on equity delivery
- Free direct mutual fund investment via Zerodha Coin
- Tools like Console and Varsity for tracking and learning
- Clean UI with fast order execution
Pros:
- Minimal charges
- Ideal for SIPs and ETFs
- Great learning tools for beginners
Cons:
- No stock recommendations or advisory
- Limited customer service options
2. Upstox – Best for Fast and Intuitive Long-Term Trading
Upstox has become a strong contender in the Indian broking space, especially for tech-savvy users. It offers zero brokerage on delivery and a user-friendly interface for both web and mobile users.
Key Features:
- Free account opening
- Advanced charts and tools
- Supports SIP in mutual funds
- Fast KYC and onboarding
Pros:
- Intuitive mobile app
- Free investing in stocks and mutual funds
- Great for passive investors
Cons:
- Limited research tools
- Customer service can be inconsistent
- Groww – Best for Beginners & Mutual Fund Investors
Originally a mutual fund platform, Groww has expanded into stock trading, making it a favorite among first-time long-term investors. Its clean interface and zero delivery charges are ideal for passive investors.
Key Features:
- Direct mutual fund investments
- Easy-to-use app and website
- SIP tracking and stock investing in one place
Pros:
- Simplified platform for mutual funds and stocks
- No account maintenance fees
- Great for goal-based investing
Cons:
- No in-depth research reports
- Limited order types for advanced users
4. Angel One – Best for Long-Term Investors Seeking Guidance
If you’re looking for expert advice and long-term investment strategies, Angel One offers a mix of discount broking with full-service features. It provides robust advisory reports, technical analysis, and auto-investment tools.
Key Features:
- Zero delivery charges
- ARQ Prime – AI-based investment advisory
- Portfolio tracking with SmartAPI access
Pros:
- Best of both advisory and discount models
- Research-backed long-term picks
- Strong support and reports
Cons:
- Interface feels cluttered for some users
- Frequent upselling of premium services
5. ICICI Direct – Best for Bank-Linked Long-Term Investing
ICICI Direct is one of the most established brokers in India and offers a 3-in-1 account combining banking, trading, and demat. It’s ideal for long-term investors looking for secure and hassle-free integration.
Key Features:
- Integrated with ICICI Bank
- Strong research and model portfolios
- Regular stock market updates
Pros:
- Trusted and safe
- Easy fund transfers between accounts
- Great for SIPs, bonds, and FDs
Cons:
- Higher brokerage
- App experience is not as fluid as newer brokers
6. HDFC Securities – Best for HDFC Bank Users
HDFC Securities is a full-service broker ideal for long-term clients who prefer strong research and integration with HDFC Bank accounts.
Key Features:
- Integrated 3-in-1 account with HDFC Bank
- Long-term equity and mutual fund tracking
- Access to IPOs, bonds, FDs, and ETFs
Pros:
- Solid research support
- Reliable for conservative investors
- Access to HDFC’s exclusive financial products
Cons:
- Higher charges on delivery
- Interface can be improved
What to Look for in a Long-Term Investment Broker
Choosing a stock broker should be based on your long-term financial goals and investment style. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Brokerage Charges
Low or zero charges on equity delivery and mutual funds are ideal for long-term investors to maximize returns.
2. Research & Tools
In-depth reports, portfolio analysis, and regular market updates help you stay informed over time.
3. Platform Experience
Look for brokers with clean, responsive mobile and desktop platforms that make long-term tracking easy.
4. Investment Options
The ability to invest in stocks, mutual funds, SIPs, gold, bonds, and ETFs from one platform adds convenience.
5. Customer Support
A responsive support team ensures smooth account handling over your long-term journey.
Final Thoughts: Pick the Right Partner for Your Wealth Journey
When it comes to long-term investing, your stock broker becomes a crucial partner in your wealth-building journey. For cost efficiency, Zerodha and Upstox are excellent. If you want beginner-friendly simplicity, go with Groww. For advisory-based investing, Angel One or ICICI Direct are great options.
Remember, the best stock broker in india isn’t the one with the most features—but the one that aligns with your long-term goals, risk appetite, and comfort level.
