NSDL Launches 3-Year Settlement Fee Waiver for Women Investors

National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL) has announced a 3-year settlement fee waiver for women opening new demat accounts under its “Women Plan”. The offer applies to accounts opened between April 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027. 

The waiver covers settlement fees on debit transactions and will remain valid for 3 years from the date of account opening. This removes a recurring transaction cost during the initial investment period. 

Growth in Women-Led Demat Accounts 

The launch follows a sustained increase in women participating in financial markets. Demat accounts held by women have risen from 6.67 million in 2021 to over 28 million by early 2026, marking growth of more than 129%. 

Women now account for nearly 30% of new brokerage clients. The increase has been supported by wider access to mobile platforms and growing use of mutual funds and systematic investment plans. 

Eligibility and Account Conditions 

The plan does not specify age limits or transaction caps. Women investors can hold multiple eligible demat accounts under the scheme. Joint accounts are included, provided the woman is listed as the primary holder. 

The structure allows investors to use the benefit without restrictions on trading frequency or account usage during the waiver period. 

Policy Alignment and Access 

The initiative is positioned alongside broader financial inclusion efforts such as the Viksit Bharat Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana. These programmes have expanded access to banking services, particularly among first-time account holders. 

By removing settlement fees, the plan addresses cost considerations that may affect participation in capital markets, especially at the entry stage. 

Management Statement 

According to MD & CEO Vijay Chandok, the number of women investors in India has been increasing, with more individuals taking independent financial decisions. 

NSDL Share Price Performance 

As of April 2, 2026, at 11:12 AM, NSDL Share Price is trading at ₹834.15, a 1.34% decrease from the previous closing price. 

Read More: SEBI to Introduce Special Platform for Investment Advisors to Simplify Registration and Compliance! 

Conclusion 

The fee waiver comes at a time when women’s participation in markets is rising, introducing a cost-related measure during the early phase of investing. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.   
 
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