A stockbroker is a licensed professional or firm that facilitates buying and selling of securities such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and derivatives on behalf of investors through stock exchanges like the NSE and BSE. Stockbrokers act as intermediaries between investors and the securities market, ensuring that trades are executed efficiently and in compliance with SEBI regulations.

In India, every stockbroker must be registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and hold a valid membership with recognized exchanges. This regulatory oversight ensures transparency, investor protection, and fair market practices. Investors can choose between full-service brokers, who offer advisory and research support, and discount brokers, who provide low-cost online trading platforms.

To begin trading, an investor must open a Demat and trading account through a SEBI-registered broker. Once the account is active, investors can place buy or sell orders, which the broker routes to the exchange. The settlement process typically follows a T+1 cycle, meaning trades are settled one business day after the transaction.

Modern brokers also provide access to trading platforms, real-time market data, portfolio tracking, and research insights, empowering investors to make informed decisions. However, investors are advised to assess a broker’s reputation, compliance record, platform reliability, and customer support quality before opening an account.

Understanding the role of a stockbroker is essential for anyone participating in the stock market. By working with a SEBI-registered and compliant broker, investors can ensure their trades are conducted securely, gain better access to financial markets, and take informed steps toward achieving their investment goals.