Global Stockbroking Market Grows at a Staggering CAGR of 10.80%

Introduction

Stockbroking is the process of buying and selling financial securities, such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives, through brokerage firms and trading platforms. It plays a vital role in financial markets by connecting investors with trading opportunities. Over the years, technological advancements have transformed stockbroking, shifting from human brokers to online and algorithmic trading, making transactions faster, more efficient, and cost-effective.

Market Dynamics

Rising retail investor participation drives the global market

The increasing accessibility of financial markets through digital trading platforms and commission-free brokerage services has driven a surge in retail investor participation. Online financial education and social media have further empowered individual investors, enabling them to make informed trading decisions. This growing engagement has not only enhanced market liquidity but also fueled demand for intuitive, feature-rich trading platforms.

• For example, Forbes reported that retail investors accounted for a record 23% of total equities trading volume between January 25 and February 1, 2024.

As a result, brokerage firms are focusing on enhancing digital trading platforms with advanced analytics, real-time market insights, AI-driven recommendations, and commission-free models to attract and retain retail investors, further accelerating market expansion.

Growing focus on sustainable investing creates tremendous opportunities

The rising importance of sustainability in investment strategies is opening new opportunities in the stockbroking market. Investors are increasingly prioritizing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, seeking ethical and sustainable investment options that align with global sustainability objectives.

• A survey conducted by Deutsche Bank AG between April and June 2024 found that 51% of respondents planned to expand their allocation to sustainable investments over the next five years.

This trend is driving brokerage firms to diversify their offerings with ESG-focused investment products, integrate sustainability metrics into their platforms, and enhance research-driven insights to support investors in making informed, sustainable financial decisions.

Regional Analysis

North America, particularly the U.S., leads the market due to its highly developed financial infrastructure, vast market capitalization, and strong institutional presence. The U.S. is home to major stock exchanges such as the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ, which collectively facilitate trillions of dollars in daily trading activity. The presence of leading brokerage firms such as Goldman Sachs and Charles Schwab enhances market depth by offering diverse investment services, including algorithmic trading, wealth management, and commission-free brokerage options. Moreover, the rise of fintech platforms and regulatory advancements supporting retail investing have further strengthened market growth.

Key Highlights

• The global stockbroking market size was valued at USD 49.65 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow from USD 55.01 billion in 2025 to reach USD 124.96 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 10.80% during the forecast period (2025-2033).
• Based on service type, the global stockbroking market is segmented into execution, advisory, and discretionary. The execution segment dominated the market with the largest market share.
• Based on trading type, the global stockbroking market is segmented into short-term trading and long-term trading. The short-term trading segment dominated the market with the largest market share.
• Based on broker type, the market is segmented into full-service brokers, discount brokers, online brokers, and robo-advisors. The discount brokers segment dominated the market with the highest market revenue.
• Based on mode, the global stockbroking market is segmented into online and offline. The online segment dominated the market with the largest market share.
• Based on end-users, the market is segmented into retail investors and institutional The retail investor segment dominated the market with the highest market revenue.
• North America is the most significant shareholder in the global market.

Competitive Players

1. Zerodha Broking Ltd.
2. Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.
3. NinjaTrader
4. Tethys Technology
5. MetaQuotes Ltd
6. VIRTU Financial Inc.
7. Upstox
8. ZacksTrade
9. Interactive Brokers LLC
10. Tridge
11. Axis Direct
12. E-Trade
13. FMR LLC
14. Angel One Limited
15. Revolut
16. Groww Invest Tech Pvt. Ltd.
17. Others

Recent Developments

• In March 2025, Virtu Financial, Inc. launched Virtu Technology Solutions (VTS), a product suite designed to provide sell-side broker-dealers access to its advanced execution and workflow technology. This initiative strengthens Virtu’s position in the stockbroking market by expanding its client base among broker-dealers, increasing demand for its technology-driven solutions, and driving revenue growth.

Segmentation

1. By Service Type
   1. Execution
   2. Advisory
   3. Discretionary
2. By Trading Type
   1. Short-term Trading
   2. Long-term Trading
3. By Broker Type
   1. Full-service Brokers
   2. Discount Brokers
   3. Online Brokers
   4. Robo-Advisors
4. By Mode
   1. Online
   2. Offline
5. By End-User
   1. Retail Investor
   2. Institutional Investor
6. By Regions
   1. North America
   2. Europe
   3. Asia-Pacific
   4. Latin America
   5. The Middle East and Africa