Introduction
Intraday trading, also known as day trading, involves buying and selling financial instruments within the same trading day. It has always been seen as a high-risk, high-reward strategy. In 2025, with advanced tools, AI-powered insights, and fast-paced markets, intraday trading has evolved significantly. But is it truly profitable in 2025? Let’s dive deep with expert insights, key strategies, and a realistic look at what it takes to succeed.
What Is Intraday Trading?
Intraday trading refers to buying and selling stocks or other instruments on the same day to capitalize on small price movements. Traders aim to take advantage of volatility and liquidity. The goal is not to hold positions overnight but to close them before the market closes.
Focus Keyword: Intraday Trading in 2025
Why Intraday Trading Is Gaining Popularity in 2025
Several factors have contributed to the growing interest in day trading:
- Advanced Trading Platforms: Tools like Zerodha Kite, Upstox Pro, and Angel One Smart Store offer real-time data, fast execution, and AI insights.
- Increased Market Volatility: The market fluctuations driven by global and domestic events create more opportunities for profit.
- Access to Leverage: Brokers offer margin trading facilities that allow higher exposure to intraday positions.
- Free Educational Content: YouTube channels, telegram groups, and financial influencers are educating the masses.
- Flexible Workstyle: Many traders work from home or on the go, making it a flexible career or side hustle.
Is Intraday Trading Really Profitable?
✅ Yes, But with Discipline
Experts agree that intraday trading can be profitable—but only for those who trade with discipline, planning, and risk control.
“The biggest myth is that intraday is gambling. The truth is, it’s a skill-based business with a learning curve,” says Rakesh Kumar, full-time trader and educator.
What Experts Say: Tips from Professional Traders
1. Master Price Action
Understanding candlestick patterns, support/resistance, and market psychology helps you make smarter entries and exits.
2. Avoid Overtrading
Limiting trades per day reduces emotional decisions and preserves capital.
3. Use a Trading Journal
Track your trades, reasons, and outcomes. It helps in reviewing your strategies.
4. Risk Management Is Key
Never risk more than 1-2% of your capital in a single trade.
5. Stick to a Strategy
Whether it’s scalping, momentum trading, or breakout trading—follow your plan.
Profitable Intraday Trading Strategies in 2025
Here are some popular strategies that still work well in 2025:
Strategy | Description | Tools You Need |
---|---|---|
Breakout Trading | Trade when price breaks support/resistance. | Trendlines, volume indicators |
Gap and Go | Trade morning price gaps. | Pre-market scanner |
Scalping | Quick trades with small profits. | Fast execution platform |
VWAP Strategy | Trade based on volume-weighted average price. | VWAP indicator |
Best Stocks for Intraday Trading in India (2025)
Intraday traders usually prefer stocks that have:
- High volatility
- High liquidity
- Good correlation with indices
Top Picks for 2025:
- Reliance Industries
- Tata Motors
- Adani Enterprises
- ICICI Bank
- Infosys
- Zomato
- HDFC Bank
Biggest Risks of Intraday Trading
While it sounds lucrative, intraday trading comes with inherent risks:
- Slippage: Especially during volatile times.
- Emotional Trading: Greed and fear lead to bad decisions.
- Brokerage Charges: Frequent trades = higher costs.
- Capital Erosion: Without proper stop-loss, losses can be devastating.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary drastically:
Trader Type | Monthly Profit Potential |
---|---|
Beginner | ₹5,000 – ₹15,000 |
Intermediate | ₹20,000 – ₹50,000 |
Expert | ₹1,00,000+ |
Note: These figures assume disciplined trading with capital between ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakhs.
Tools Every Intraday Trader Must Use
- Trading Platforms: Zerodha Kite, Upstox, Angel One
- Screeners: TradingView, Chartink, Moneycontrol
- News Feeds: Bloomberg, ET Now, CNBC
- Telegram/Discord Groups: For signals and alerts
Legal & Tax Implications in 2025
Intraday trading is taxed as speculative business income under Indian tax laws. Here’s what you need to know:
- Income Tax: Taxed at slab rate.
- GST: Not applicable unless you’re offering financial services.
- Books of Accounts: Must be maintained if turnover exceeds ₹10 lakhs.
Can You Do Intraday Trading as a Career?
Yes—but it’s not easy.
Pros:
- No boss
- High earning potential
- Location independence
Cons:
- Mentally draining
- Unpredictable income
- Requires years of learning
Is AI Helping in Intraday Trading?
Yes, 2025 has seen a rise in AI-based trade recommendations, automated backtesting, and bot trading. However, most experts still suggest using AI as a support, not a replacement for human decision-making.
Final Verdict: Is Intraday Trading Worth It in 2025?
If you have time, capital, discipline, and a thirst to learn, intraday trading can be profitable. But if you’re looking for overnight success or gambling thrills, it’s better to stay away.
Success lies in treating trading like a business—with proper planning, learning, and execution.