From April 1, 2026 stock market F&O trading gets costlier, know how much extra you need to pay; Budget 2026 announcement

Budget 2026 has increased Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures and options trading to curb excessive retail speculation. Effective April 1, 2026, STT rates on options will rise by up to 50%, and on futures by 150%. This move, alongside SEBI's measures, aims to make high-frequency trading less viable for retail investors.