The Role of Fintech in Increasing Retail Participation in the Indian Stock Market

The rapid growth of financial technology (fintech) has brought substantial changes to retail investor activity in the Indian stock market. This study examines how fintech developments have boosted retail participation from 2017 to 2024, primarily through mobile trading platforms, robo-advisors, and digital payment solutions. Using a quantitative research method with secondary data, the study tracks the year-over-year increase in retail shareholders, noting a significant rise particularly after 2021. The findings point to factors such as the Digital India initiative, growing adoption of fintech, and evolving market conditions as key drivers that have reduced entry barriers for retail investors. The analysis establishes a connection between the advancement of fintech and improved access to the stock market, underlining fintech's significant contribution to democratizing investment opportunities. Nonetheless, ongoing issues like regulatory challenges and financial literacy gaps remain, highlighting the need for continued efforts to maximize fintech's potential in fostering sustainable growth in retail investment.