How to Invest Without Demat Account?

Elimination of the traditional trading process in stocks has led to the use of Demat accounts, which has enabled you to hold securities in an electronic format. The Securities Exchange Board of India mandated the use of a Demat account for entering the share market. However, you can consider specific investment options if you do not have a Demat account.

Mutual funds are an apt investment option when you do not have a Demat account.

You can buy mutual funds without a Demat account can be done in the following ways-

• Through AMC office or website:

  Many mutual fund companies mention and promote their products online. One physical visit to the fund house is necessary in case the company mandates it. Then an application form and a copy of the PAN card, KYC documents and initial cheque amount are submitted. A PIN is then allotted for further transactions, along with a folio number. The drawback here is the repetition of the application process with each fund house approached by you.

• Independent Portals:

  Different independent portals provide lists of mutual funds. Online registration is needed for opening an online Demat account. The submission must be made by taking a print-out of the application form and submitting the same. The portal also does the KYC if not done earlier. You can quickly sell and buy the funds after the login is created. The problems here can arise only when the portal is not linked with the bank. 

• Through registered mutual fund adviser:

  Numerous mutual fund agents are registered with AMFI (association of mutual funds in India. The loss of these agents is found on the AMFI website. These agents may pay a visit to your home for further guidance through the various options. They might also submit the forms for the investor. The best way to look for good agents is to filter a few based on their experience, knowledge and qualification. The one possible problem here is the challenge to find an active agent. The one who stays inactive might no help differentiate between good and evil schemes.

• Transfer agents:

  If you are unwilling to visit each AMC or find the right advisor, you can go for transfer agents. These act as an intermediary between the mutual fund company and the person. Transfer agents do not charge any money and offer information on new funds and schemes. These are one-point contact for submitting different forms.

• Banks:

  The most popular way of investing in mutual funds is through banks. Banks are also mutual fund agents, and they are the best to consider when you are sure about which mutual fund to buy.

A Demat account is not needed when the account is opened with the only intention of holding non-equity assets like ETFs and gold. Trading in ETF and gold ETF doesn’t need a Demat account to be traded through the trading account. Trading in Futures and Options can also be done without a Demat account. These transactions can be done through the trading account. However, it is essential to note that the trading account cannot be used for holding the shares.

Disclaimer: ICICI Securities Ltd.( I-Sec). Registered office of I-Sec is at ICICI Securities Ltd. - ICICI Centre, H. T. Parekh Marg, Churchgate, Mumbai - 400020, India, Tel No : 022 - 2288 2460, 022 - 2288 2470.  PThe contents herein above shall not be considered as an invitation or persuasion to trade or invest.  Investments in securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. I-Sec and affiliates accept no liabilities for any loss or damage of any kind arising out of any actions taken in reliance thereon. The contents are solely for informational and educational purpose.