The National Stock Exchange of India has achieved a significant milestone, with total unique trading accounts crossing 25 crore in February 2026. According to the exchange, the latest one crore accounts were added in just two months, highlighting a sharp acceleration in market participation. Notably, the most recent five crore accounts—around 20% of the overall total—were opened within the past 16 months.
As of 31 January 2026, the number of unique registered investors stood at 12.7 crore, having crossed 12 crore in September 2025. Since investors may maintain accounts with multiple brokers, the total trading accounts exceed the number of distinct investors. Maharashtra leads in state-wise distribution with 4.2 crore accounts (nearly 17%), followed by Uttar Pradesh with 2.8 crore (11.3%), Gujarat with around 2.2 crore (8.7%), and West Bengal and Rajasthan with 1.4 crore each (5.8% apiece). Together, the top five states account for nearly 49% of total accounts, while the top 10 states contribute more than 73%.
The exchange attributed the expansion to rapid digitisation, fintech-driven accessibility, affordable trading platforms, and growing retail participation. Over the five-year period ending 11 February 2026, the Nifty 50 and Nifty 500 generated annualised returns of 11.3% and 13.7%, respectively. Indirect participation has also increased significantly, with nearly 6 crore new systematic investment plan (SIP) accounts opened between April 2025 and January 2026. During this period, average monthly SIP inflows rose to ₹28,766 crore, up from ₹23,743 crore a year earlier. As of 31 December 2025, individual investors—including those investing via mutual funds—held 18.6% of the market capitalisation of NSE-listed companies, compared to 14.6% five years ago.
Sriram Krishnan, chief business development officer at the exchange, said surpassing 25 crore trading accounts represents a major milestone for India’s capital markets. He noted that the rapid expansion reflects increasing household confidence and broader acceptance of equities as a long-term investment option. He further emphasised that as participation widens across regions and demographics, sustained efforts in investor education, disciplined investing, and strong safeguards will be crucial to ensuring inclusive and sustainable wealth creation.
