Can NRIs trade in commodities or currency derivatives?
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are currently not permitted to participate in the commodity or currency derivatives segments on Indian exchanges. These restrictions arise from FEMA, SEBI, and exchange rules aimed at compliance and limiting speculative cross-border exposure.
Commodity trading restrictions
NRIs cannot trade commodity derivatives on Indian exchanges.
- Separate regulatory framework: Commodity markets are regulated independently from equities, and current rules exclude NRI participation.
- FEMA compliance: Leveraged commodity exposure and related cross-border flows fall outside permissible limits for NRIs.
Currency derivatives trading restrictions
NRIs are not allowed to trade currency derivatives on Indian exchanges.
- FEMA guidelines: NRIs are restricted from leveraged currency exposure in domestic markets.
- Exchange compliance: SEBI and exchange regulations disallow NRI access to currency derivative segments.
Both commodity and currency trading features are disabled for all NRI accounts at FYERS. For market access, NRIs can use equity delivery and—where eligible—F&O via an NRO Non-PIS account with a CP code.
What if…
| Scenario | What you should know |
|---|
| Looking to diversify | Consider equity delivery and eligible F&O via an NRO Non-PIS account. |
| Previously traded these segments as a resident | Close all positions and accounts in commodity/currency segments before updating to NRI status. |
| Attempting access through FYERS | Commodity and currency trading are disabled for NRI accounts per compliance norms. |
| Seeing brokers offering access | Such arrangements may be non-compliant; verify with SEBI/FEMA rules before proceeding. |
| Seeking commodity/currency exposure | Explore regulated global ETFs or mutual funds via international channels, subject to your local laws. |
Last updated: 13 Aug 2025
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