Do I need separate accounts for equity, F&O and commodity trading?

No, you usually do not need separate accounts. One trading account with your broker can cover equity, F&O, currency and commodity, but each segment has to be activated separately, and some need extra documents.

Equity cash trading is normally switched on by default when the account opens. The F&O segment needs income proof, because derivatives carry more risk. Commodity trading on MCX also needs activation, and your broker must be a member of that commodity exchange. Some brokers handle commodities through a different entity, which may mean a separate form or login.

• Equity delivery and intraday: active by default with most brokers.
• F&O: requires income proof such as a bank statement or ITR.
• Commodity: available only if the broker is a commodity exchange member.
• Funds: some brokers keep a common ledger, others keep separate balances per segment.

Here is a practical tip. Activate segments only when you have actually studied them. Many students switch on F&O on day one simply because the app offers it, and then take positions they do not understand. SEBI’s study found that about 90% of individual F&O traders lost money in FY26.

Our Diploma in Stock Market introduces equity first, then derivatives, so you know what each segment involves before you enable it.