Summary of this article
New demat account openings surged in January to 3.62 million
More investors looked to enter equity markets amid volatility and broad-based correction
New demat account openings reached a 16-month high in January 2026, amid volatility in equity markets and a slowdown in activity in the primary market. New investors are seeking more opportunities in markets at a time the equity markets have seen broad-based corrections.
According to data from NSDL and CDSL, 3.62 million new demat accounts were opened in January 2026, the highest number of account openings seen since September 2024. The rise in new account openings came even as equity benchmarks have fallen, with the Sensex falling around 3.50 per cent in January. Meanwhile, the Nifty fell over 3 per cent in the same month.
January also marked the second month to consecutively see account openings of over 3 million. In December, new demat account openings were recorded at 3.18 million, much higher than 2.70 million opened a month ago.
The year 2025 saw the Indian equity markets take a sharp volatility driven by heightened geopolitical tensions and a sell-off by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs). This led to a slowdown in new account openings. Compared to 3.62 million new account openings in January, there were 2.83 million accounts opened in January 2025.
How Are Equity Markets Performing Today
Equity benchmark indices traded in a narrow range on February 11, 2026. The Sensex ended flat at 84,233.64, while the Nifty was ended flat at 25,953.85.
Several auto and healthcare stocks gained on February 11. Shares of Eicher Motors surged over 6 per cent. Shares of Apollo Hospitals rose 4.60 per cent, while Max Healthcare rose over 3 per cent.
Among top losers were Coal India, dropping over 2 per cent. Meanwhile shares of TCS fell 2.50 per cent and ONGC shares lost 1.50 per cent.
How To Open A Demat Account
A demat account can be opened through both online and offline methods. Here is a step-by-step guide to opening a demat account.
To open a new account, first choose a reliable depository participant registered with NSDL or CDSL.
Visit the depository participant website, or go to NSDL or CDSL directly and choose the ‘open demat account’ option.
Proceed as per the instructions given and fill in the application form by entering necessary details, such as your personal and contact information. Enter the OTP received on the phone and proceed with the application.
Upload the necessary documents required, such as your Permanent Account Number (PAN) and bank account details. Complete your e-KYC verification and authentication. Once you have verified your details, a demat account number will be generated.
