For investors, every trade may seem like a small transaction—but the costs can add up quickly. From Securities Transaction Tax and GST on brokerage to stamp duty, transaction charges and, where applicable, UPI-related charges, frequent trading can quietly eat into returns, particularly for high-turnover strategies and smaller-ticket transactions.
So, how much do these costs really matter for retail investors? And could the cumulative impact of multiple small charges become a meaningful drag on long-term wealth creation?