A Beginner's Guide to Commodity Trading in India

Everything you need to know about trading Gold, Silver, Crude Oil, and Natural Gas on MCX & NCDEX.

Commodity trading has emerged as one of the most popular ways to diversify investment portfolios in India. From precious metals like gold and silver to energy products such as crude oil and natural gas, commodities offer traders exciting opportunities to hedge risk and benefit from global price movements.

In this guide, we explain what commodity trading is, how it works in India, the benefits, and how online platforms like ATS Share Brokers make it easier to get started.

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🔹 What is Commodity Trading?

Commodity trading refers to the buying and selling of contracts based on physical goods such as metals, energy products, and agricultural commodities. Instead of trading the physical product, investors usually trade futures and options contracts, which represent an agreement to buy or sell a commodity at a future date at a predetermined price.

In India, commodity trading is regulated by SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India) and takes place on recognized exchanges such as MCX (Multi Commodity Exchange) and NCDEX (National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange).

🔹 Popular Commodities Traded in India

• Gold

A traditional safe-haven asset and inflation hedge

• Silver

Used both as a precious metal and industrial commodity

• Crude Oil

Highly volatile and influenced by global events

• Natural Gas

Popular among short-term traders

Many platforms also offer mini contracts, allowing traders to participate with smaller capital.

🔹 Why Should You Trade Commodities?

Portfolio Diversification

Commodities behave differently from stocks and bonds, helping reduce overall portfolio risk.

Hedge Against Inflation

Prices of commodities often rise during inflation, protecting purchasing power.

Extended Trading Hours

Commodity markets operate for longer hours, allowing flexibility for working professionals.

Profit from Global Movements

International demand, supply disruptions, geopolitical events, and currency fluctuations can create strong trading opportunities.

🔹 How to Start Trading Commodities

To begin commodity trading, you need:
  1. A trading and demat account with commodity segment activated
  2. Completion of commodity-specific KYC
  3. Access to a platform that supports MCX / NCDEX trading (like ATS)
  4. Sufficient margin balance or pledged securities

Once activated, you can start trading futures and options contracts directly online.

Is Commodity Trading Legal in India?


Yes. Commodity trading in India is completely legal and regulated by SEBI. All contracts are traded on recognized exchanges like MCX and NCDEX under strict regulatory supervision.

However, most retail trading is done through cash-settled contracts, meaning positions are squared off before physical delivery takes place.

Charges & Brokerage in Commodity Trading


Brokerage charges for commodity trading are generally similar to equity derivatives. In addition, traders pay:

Exchange transaction charges
Clearing fees
SEBI fees
GST and stamp duty

Always check your broker's fee structure before starting.

Trade Commodities Online with ATS

Diversify your portfolio with Gold, Silver, Crude Oil & Natural Gas.

Trade on MCX & NCDEX

Low and transparent brokerage

Advanced web & mobile platforms

Margin trading & pledge facility

Daily research & trading tips

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Why Choose ATS?

Modern trading platforms like ATS have simplified commodity trading by integrating it with equity and derivatives trading accounts.


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Don't miss market opportunities.
💰 Unified Trading Balance
One wallet for Stocks & Commodities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Commodity trading in India involves buying and selling futures and options contracts of commodities such as gold, silver, crude oil, and natural gas on exchanges like MCX and NCDEX.

Yes, commodity trading is legal and regulated by SEBI. All trades are executed through authorized exchanges under strict regulatory supervision.

You can start commodity trading with a small amount by trading mini or micro contracts. Margin requirements depend on the commodity and contract type.

A good commodity broker offers low brokerage, fast execution, advanced platforms, and strong research support. ATS Share Brokers provides all these features for smooth online commodity trading.

Yes, beginners can start commodity trading by learning basic concepts, starting with small trades, and using guidance from expert brokers like ATS Share Brokers.

Most retail traders trade cash-settled contracts and do not take physical delivery. Positions are squared off before delivery.

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