Tools & Calculators
Optimise Leverage, Maximise Your Gains with Margin Trading Facility (MTF)

Margin trading Facility is a powerful investment strategy that allows investors to increase their buying power by borrowing funds from the broker. It is a type of secured lending where the borrowed funds are secured with the investments purchased. The investors can use the borrowed money to purchase more securities than they could with their own resources.
Robust Risk Management Tool
Flexible Collateral Options for Margin
Real-time Margin Monitoring
Open to HDFC Sky
Select Stocks to Buy
Choose MTF on Order Screen
Place MTF Order
Our competitive margin trading charges are designed to maximize the trading potential while minimising costs.
1% p.m. Interest on MTF Product
Delayed interest charge - 0.05%/day
Interest against collateral for derivative - 12%
Borrow funds from your broker to trade
Use strategies like stop-loss orders, diversification, and position sizing
Spread the investments across a wider range of securities
Increasing the investment allows investors to benefit more from market upswings
Earn gains from falling markets by repurchasing securities at lower prices
Become a more advanced investor
Borrow funds from your broker to trade
Use strategies like stop-loss orders, diversification, and position sizing
Spread the investments across a wider range of securities
Increasing the investment allows investors to benefit more from market upswings
Earn gains from falling markets by repurchasing securities at lower prices
Become a more advanced investor

MTF Calculator
Check Margin with Interest Estimate
Search for any MTF-approved stock using the search bar and enter your available funds to instantly see how many shares you can buy with or without margin. You’ll also find the margin multiplier for each stock, helping you understand the leverage you can use for trading.
Margin Trading Facility (MTF) is a financial service that allows traders and investors to purchase assets by borrowing funds from their broker. This allows the trader to purchase assets beyond their current capital. Margin trading is particularly popular with retail traders looking to leverage their funds and book higher profits by deploying MTF. The assets purchased with MTF trading serve as collateral with the broker until the loan is repaid. This collateral is a robust risk management system for the stock broker, protecting them from traders defaulting on their margin trading loans. It also helps the trader avoid overleveraging and over-margin trading. The funds provided by the broker are called a margin loan. These loans taken under a margin trading facility allow traders to purchase a high-value trade to amplify gains at a predetermined MTF interest rate on the margin loan.
In simple terms, a Margin Trading Facility (MTF) means traders purchase assets by parking a small fraction of capital of the total trade value while borrowing the remaining funds from the broker by paying MTF interest rates. Let us assume a trader wants to purchase assets worth ₹10,00,000 but has only ₹5,00,000. The trader can utilise MTF to buy the shares by borrowing ₹5,00,000 from the broker. Assets purchased worth ₹10,00,000 by these funds remain as collateral with the broker until repayment of the margin loan. Margin trading facilities in the stock market fall under the purview of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), which regulates margin requirements and asset eligibility for MTF. SEBI mandates brokers to have sufficient risk management procedures to safeguard brokers and investors against overtrading and overleveraging, especially with MTF in trading. Let us examine a margin trading facility in the stock market using a detailed example. For instance, a broker offers a 50% margin, and the trader wants to purchase shares worth ₹20,00,000; he needs to pay ₹10,00,000, while the broker lends the remaining ₹10,00,000. If the value of the MTF trade rises, the trader will book a profit on the entire ₹20,00,000. If the trade moves adversely, the trader will also lose the entire ₹20,00,000. This loss could very well exceed the trader’s initial investment of ₹10,00,000.
Let us see a step-by-step guide on how to buy shares using the margin trading facility (MTF) on the HDFC Sky trading platform:
The margin trading facility on HDFC Sky is uncomplicated, secure and supported by advanced trading technology.
Now invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) with the power of Margin Trading Facility (MTF). With MTF, you can buy eligible ETFs by paying only a part of the total value – The rest is funded by your broker. This helps you amplify exposure while optimizing capital usage.
ETFs already offer diversification by tracking indices like Nifty 50, gold, or sectoral baskets. Combined with MTF, they become a smart choice for investors seeking capital efficiency and flexibility.
Typically, e-margin trading interest charges are 12%-15%. The HDFC Sky MTF rate is 12% i.e. 1% per month. The MTF interest rate is critical in determining the total cost of the trade. For example, if an MTF trade generates 10% profit, but the MTF interest rate is 12%, the trader is at a net loss of 2%. It is pertinent to note that interest rates vary from broker to broker. Traders must also wonder what MTF is in stock market transaction costs; these are charges levied on all transactions made while e-margin trading and MTF trading. They are typically a nominal percentage of the trade value. Other charges are regulatory levies and GST (Goods and Service Tax). The MTF interest rate is determined by factors like the sum borrowed, internal broker policies and current market conditions. Brokers tend to amend the rate of interest mid-trade to factor in market volatility or policy changes. For instance, hikes in bank interest rates may lead to an increase in the MTF interest rate. Higher borrowed funds attract higher interest rates, as the risk also increases. Some brokers offer tiered interest rates where big sums of borrowed funds are subject to progressively higher interest charges. The asset class of the trade also significantly influences the margin trading interest; volatile or less liquid assets attract higher rates. The broker determines MTF interest rates. Some brokers charge fixed interest, and some adjust rates as per the loaned amount. The period of the MTF trading loan affects the interest rate calculation as longer durations accumulate more interest. Clients with lower risk profiles based on their credit scores are given loans at lower MTF interest rates.
Let us discuss the significant features of margin trading in share market on HDFC Sky.
These features ensure a reliable and user-friendly experience for traders using HDFC Sky’s MTF facility.
Let us see what margin trading in share market benefits:
Let us see what MTF is in share market risk:
HDFC Sky is an ideal platform for MTF trading for the following features:
Whether exploring MTF in trading or seeking expert services, HDFC Sky’s MTF facility is ideal for meeting diverse trading needs.
HDFC SKY is an advanced trading platform. It provides a one-stop solution for all trading resources, such as a trading account and demat account, real-time access to global market movements, price actions, and detailed fundamental and technical analysis, which are crucial for achieving success in margin trading. HDFC Sky offers margin trading leverage, called the “Buy Stocks Pay Later” (BSPL) option. Explore MTF on HDFC Sky today.
Margin trading involves borrowing funds from a broker to purchase securities, allowing investors to take larger positions than they could with their own capital alone. Unlike regular trading, where you use only your own money, margin trading lets you leverage your investment by using borrowed funds.
This can amplify both potential gains and losses. In a margin account, you put up a percentage of the purchase price (the margin), and your broker lends you the rest. The securities in your account serve as collateral for the loan. Margin trading offers greater flexibility and potential returns, but it also comes with increased risk and complexity.
To begin margin trading, investors need to meet several key requirements. Firstly, they must open a margin account, which involves filling out an application and providing the necessary documentation for identity verification.
The initial margin requirement mandates a certain percentage of the total trade value, usually around 40%, to be deposited in the account. However, this percentage depends on the broker. Additionally, investors must maintain a maintenance margin, typically set by the broker.
While margin trading is available for many securities, it’s not universally applicable. Stocks listed on major exchanges are typically open to purchase using margin trading, but the exact list can vary by broker.
Many ETFs are also eligible for margin trading. However, penny stocks, over-the-counter (OTC) stocks, and newly issued IPOs often have higher margin requirements or may not be available for margin trading at all due to their higher volatility and risk. Options trading on margin is possible but subject to specific rules and higher requirements. Bonds, especially government and high-grade corporate bonds, can usually be purchased with margin trading.
Margin trading carries several significant risks. The primary risk is amplified losses due to leverage. While margin can magnify gains, it can equally magnify losses, potentially exceeding your initial investment. Market volatility poses another risk, as rapid price movements can trigger margin calls or force liquidations. Interest charges on margin loans can erode profits or deepen losses, especially in sideways or declining markets.
There’s also the risk of changes in margin requirements, which could force you to add funds or liquidate positions unexpectedly. Regulatory risks exist too, as authorities may impose restrictions on margin trading during market turmoil. Lastly, there’s the psychological risk of overtrading or taking on excessive risk due to the increased buying power margin.
A margin call occurs when the equity in a margin account falls below the broker’s required maintenance margin. The broker then demands that the investor deposit additional funds or sell some securities to bring the account back to the required level.
For example, if the maintenance margin is 25% and the value of the securities drops such that the equity falls below this percentage, the broker will issue a margin call. To avoid margin calls, investors should regularly monitor their margin account and maintain a buffer above the maintenance margin to account for market fluctuations. Diversifying the portfolio can also help mitigate risk, as it reduces exposure to any single security’s price movements.
Additionally, setting stop-loss orders can automatically sell securities at predetermined prices to limit losses.
When a margin call is issued, you must promptly deposit additional funds or securities into your account to meet the maintenance margin. If you can’t meet the margin call, your broker has the right to sell securities in your account without your consent to bring the account back into compliance.
This forced liquidation can occur at unfavorable prices, potentially leading to significant losses. In some cases, brokers may also charge fees for margin calls or restrict your trading privileges. It’s crucial to monitor your margin account closely and maintain adequate equity to avoid margin calls.
Calculating potential returns with margin trading involves considering both the borrowed funds and the interest costs associated with them.
For example, if an investor uses ₹10,000 of their own money and borrows ₹10,000 from the broker to purchase ₹20,000 worth of stock, and the stock’s value increases by 20%, the new value would be ₹24,000. The profit in this case would be ₹4,000. However, the cost of borrowing, including interest, needs to be deducted to calculate the net return.
If the interest rate is 10% annually and the position is held for one year, the interest cost on the ₹10,000 loan would be ₹1,000. Therefore, the net profit would be ₹4,000 – ₹1,000 = ₹3,000. It’s essential to factor in all costs, including interest and any brokerage fees, to accurately determine the net return on investment.
Margin trading can have several implications for your tax situation. Interest paid on margin loans may be tax-deductible as investment interest expense, but only to the extent of your net investment income.
This can potentially reduce your taxable income. However, the rules around this deduction can be complex, especially with recent tax law changes. Margin trading can also impact how your capital gains and losses are calculated. If you use margin to short-sell stocks, the rules become even more intricate. Additionally, frequent trading facilitated by margin accounts might affect whether your activities are considered trading or investing for tax purposes.
Buying on margin and short selling are two different trading strategies that involve borrowing from a broker but serve distinct purposes. Buying on margin involves borrowing funds to purchase more securities than one could with their own capital, aiming to profit from an increase in the securities’ value.
For example, an investor with ₹10,000 can borrow an additional ₹10,000 to buy ₹20,000 worth of stock, hoping that the stock price will rise and yield higher returns. In contrast, short selling involves borrowing securities themselves, selling them at the current market price, and then buying them back later at a lower price.
The goal is to profit from a decline in the securities’ value. For instance, if an investor believes a stock priced at ₹100 will drop, they can borrow and sell the stock at ₹100, and if the price falls to ₹80, they buy it back at the lower price and return it to the broker, pocketing the difference.
While margin is often associated with short-term trading, it can be used for long-term investing, albeit with careful consideration. Long-term margin investing can potentially enhance returns through leveraged exposure to appreciating assets. It can also provide liquidity without necessitating the sale of existing positions.
However, the risks of long-term margin use are significant. Interest charges can accumulate substantially over time, eroding returns. Extended exposure to leverage increases the risk of severe losses during market downturns. Long-term investors using margin must be prepared for potential margin calls and have strategies to meet them without disrupting their investment plans.
Generally, margin is better suited for shorter-term strategies or tactical adjustments in a long-term portfolio, rather than as a core long-term investing strategy.
Symbols | LTP | Margin | With MTF | Qty (With MTF) | Qty (Without MTF) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADANIPORTS | ₹ 1511.00 | 4.00x | ₹ 377.75 | 0 | 0 |
| ALKEM | ₹ 5685.00 | 4.00x | ₹ 1421.25 | 0 | 0 |
| AMBUJACEM | ₹ 534.30 | 4.00x | ₹ 133.57 | 0 | 0 |
| APOLLOHOSP | ₹ 7195.50 | 4.00x | ₹ 1798.88 | 0 | 0 |
| ASIANPAINT | ₹ 2961.60 | 4.00x | ₹ 740.4 | 0 | 0 |
| ASTRAL | ₹ 1458.00 | 4.00x | ₹ 364.5 | 0 | 0 |
| AUROPHARMA | ₹ 1217.00 | 4.00x | ₹ 304.25 | 0 | 0 |
| AXISBANK | ₹ 1284.20 | 4.00x | ₹ 321.05 | 0 | 0 |
| BAJAJ-AUTO | ₹ 9110.00 | 4.00x | ₹ 2277.5 | 0 | 0 |
| BAJAJFINSV | ₹ 2093.70 | 4.00x | ₹ 523.42 | 0 | 0 |