Dhan Review: A Modern Discount Broker with Zero Brokerage and Advanced Tools
Dhan Review: A Modern Discount Broker with Zero Brokerage and Advanced Tools
Dhan, launched in 2021, is a rapidly growing digital stock broker in India. Known for its zero brokerage on delivery and flat fees for intraday and derivatives, Dhan combines modern technology with user-friendly features. Its focus on seamless account opening and innovative tools makes it a popular choice among new and active traders alike.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Zero brokerage on equity delivery, saving costs for investors
- User-friendly trading platforms with advanced charting and analysis tools
- Strong customer support via chat, phone, and email with quick response times
- Comprehensive research reports and trading alerts included free
- Highly rated mobile app (~4.5 stars on iOS) with over 1 million downloads
- Instant online account opening with eKYC and Digilocker integration
Cons
- No physical branches; entirely digital presence may be a limitation for some
- Research and advisory services are not personalized, as it follows a discount broker model
- Account closure charges are zero but AMC for NRI Demat is Rs.800+GST annually
- Limited to certain segments; no NRI currency or commodity trading currently
Brokerage Charges & Plans
Dhan operates on a discount brokerage model, offering zero brokerage for equity delivery and flat Rs.20 or 0.03% (lower of) for intraday and derivatives trading. This competitive pricing structure appeals to active traders and long-term investors alike, making trading cost-effective without compromising on platform quality.
| Segment | Brokerage Charges |
|---|---|
| Equity Delivery | Rs.0 |
| Equity Intraday | Flat Rs.20 or 0.03% (lower of) |
| Segment | Brokerage Charges |
|---|---|
| Equity Futures | Flat Rs.20 or 0.03% (lower of) |
| Equity Options | Flat Rs.20 per order |
| Segment | Brokerage Charges |
|---|---|
| Currency Futures | Flat Rs.20 or 0.03% (lower of) |
| Currency Options | Flat Rs.20 per order |
| Segment | Brokerage Charges |
|---|---|
| Commodity Futures | Flat Rs.20 or 0.03% (lower of) |
| Commodity Options | Flat Rs.20 per order |
Additional Charges & Fees
Account Opening Process
Dhan offers a smooth and instant online account opening process through eKYC, supported by Digilocker integration for easy document verification. Offline options are also available for NRIs and corporates, with no charges. The entire process takes just a few hours for online verification, making it ideal for beginners and experienced traders who want quick access to markets.
Digital Features
- Yes eKYC Available
- Yes Aadhaar Verification
- Yes Digilocker Integration
- Yes 3-in-1 Account
Documents Required
PAN, Aadhaar, Bank Proof, Signature, Income Proof (for F&O)
Account Opening Charges
| Online Account Opening | Rs.0 |
| Offline Account Opening | Rs.0 |
| NRI Account Opening | Rs.0 |
| Corporate Account Opening | Rs.0 |
| Demat Account Opening | Rs.0 |
Account Opening Duration
Instant (Online eKYC), 24-48 hours (Manual verification)
Trading Platforms
Dhan provides multiple trading platforms including web, mobile, and desktop options. The web platform is accessible via any browser, offering advanced charting, real-time data, and quick order execution. Their mobile app, with over 1 million downloads and 4.5-star ratings on iOS, is designed for traders on the go, featuring 100+ TradingView-powered indicators. The desktop app offers professional tools for technical analysis, while the back-office platform consolidates portfolio management seamlessly.
Web Platform
Dhan Web
Browser-based trading with real-time data and advanced charting capabilities
Mobile App
Dhan App
Desktop Client
Dhan Desktop
Advanced charting, technical analysis, high-speed order execution
Back Office
Console
Comprehensive portfolio management and reporting tools
Features & Capabilities
Dhan’s platforms come loaded with features like Level 2 market depth, over 100 market watchlists, advanced order types including GTT, bracket, cover, and trailing stops. Real-time streaming quotes, 100+ chart indicators, and an API for algo trading (DhanHQ API) empower traders. The platform supports multi-language options (English, Hindi) and offers trading calculators, heat maps, stock screeners, and alerts for price and news updates, making trading smarter and more efficient.
Market Watch Lists
100+ watchlists with 100+ scrips each
Market Depth
Level 2 / 5 Depth
Order Types
GTT, Bracket, Cover, Trailing, Iceberg, AMO (After Market Order)
Real-time Streaming
Yes
Language Support
English, Hindi
Technical Indicators
100+ (Powered by TradingView)
Trading Calculators
Yes
Margin Calculator
Yes
Option Chain
Yes
Heat Map
Yes
Stock Screeners
Yes
Price Alerts
Yes
News Alerts
Yes
Portfolio Tracker
Yes
Custom Dashboard
Yes
Education App
Upsurge
API Access
Yes – DhanHQ API
Algo Trading
Strategy Builder / DhanHQ
Research & Advisory Services
Dhan provides free comprehensive research reports, including fundamental and technical analysis, to help traders make informed decisions. While it does not offer personalized advisory services, its stock recommendations based on analyst ratings and research ideas add value for both beginners and experienced investors.
Mutual Fund Investments
Dhan’s mutual fund platform offers direct plans from over 40 AMCs without commission, making it ideal for cost-conscious investors. SIP options include E-SIP, Smart SIP, Step-Up SIP, Flexi SIP, Trigger SIP, and Perpetual SIP, providing flexibility for various investment strategies. Investing is simple through their user-friendly app and website, suitable for both new and seasoned investors.
SIP Options Available
Integrations & Strategic Partnerships
Dhan’s platform integrates with Smallcase for thematic investing, offers options trading through TradingView, and provides direct bond trading options. These collaborations enhance the trading experience by providing access to diverse investment avenues and advanced tools, making Dhan a comprehensive platform for all types of investors.
Smallcase
Yes
Options Trading Platform
TradingView
Bonds Platform
Yes (Direct Bonds)
Insurance Services
Not Available
Investment & Financial Services
- Investment Themes: Yes
- Goal-Based Investing: Not specified
- Tax Harvesting: Not specified
- Portfolio Health Score: Not available
- Cross Product Margin: Not specified
- Multi-Exchange Trading: Yes
NRI Trading Services
NRI clients can open accounts offline with support for PIS and Non-PIS segments. Trading options include equity delivery, mutual funds, and F&O on a non-PIS basis. Bank support is flexible, but specific bank details are not publicly listed. Brokerage for NRIs is Rs.20 per order for F&O and other segments, with no specified maximum cap.
NRI Account Services
Available
| Account Types | PIS and Non-PIS |
| Supported Banks | Data Not Found |
| PIS Permission | Yes |
| Trading Segments | Equity Delivery, Mutual Funds, F&O (Non-PIS) |
| Intraday Trading | No |
| Currency Trading | No |
| Commodity Trading | No |
| Mutual Funds | Yes |
NRI Brokerage Charges
Customer Support & Service
Dhan offers robust customer support through phone, email, live chat, and ticket systems. Support is available from 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday. There are no physical branches, but their digital support infrastructure ensures quick resolution and assistance for traders across India, making it convenient for all user types.
Support Channels
Phone Support
+91 9987761000
9 AM-6 PM, Monday – Saturday
Email Support
help@dhan.co
Live Chat
Yes
Ticket System
Yes
Physical Presence
0
Branches
0
Partner Offices
Digital (Pan India)
Cities
Main Office: Mumbai
Branch Locator: Not available
Physical Branch Support: No
Our Editor’s Take
Dhan stands out as a highly modern and tech-savvy broker, especially appealing to young investors and active traders who want zero brokerage and advanced features. The platform’s seamless account opening, combined with powerful tools like Strategy Builder, TradingView indicators, and real-time alerts, makes it a compelling option for those comfortable with digital trading. While it lacks physical branches, its robust app and web platforms compensate by offering a smooth experience. The focus on cost-efficiency and innovation positions Dhan as a strong choice for cost-conscious traders seeking a professional, no-nonsense trading environment. Overall, it’s an excellent broker for beginners who want quick setup and active traders aiming to minimize costs while maximizing tools.
The Final Verdict
After reviewing Dhan thoroughly, it’s clear that this broker is best suited for active traders, tech-savvy investors, and those looking for a cost-effective platform. Its zero brokerage on delivery makes it highly attractive for long-term investors, while features like advanced charting, API access, and multiple order types appeal to experienced traders. The platform’s ease of account opening, comprehensive research reports, and excellent mobile app support further enhance its value. However, traders seeking personalized advisory or physical branches might find Dhan’s digital-only approach limiting. Overall, Dhan offers a compelling mix of affordability, innovation, and advanced tools, making it a top choice in India’s discount broker segment. For those wanting to compare similar brokers or learn about account opening tips, visit paisowala.com for detailed guides and comparisons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Account opening is instant online via eKYC, with no charges. Offline options for NRIs and corporates are also available at Rs.0.
Delivery is free (Rs.0), while intraday and F&O are flat Rs.20 or 0.03% of turnover, whichever is lower.
Yes, Dhan App is available on Android and iOS with high ratings (~4.5 stars on iOS and 3.9 on Android), with over 1 million downloads.
Yes, Dhan offers direct mutual fund plans from over 40 AMCs, with no commission on direct plans, and various SIP options including Flexi and Trigger SIPs.
Support is available via phone, email, live chat, and ticket system, with quick response times from 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Saturday.
