What is BTST Trading?

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The term BTST in the stock market represents "Buy Today Sell Tomorrow." BTST trading strategy refers to buying shares one day and selling them the next. This approach makes most of the stock market overnight price fluctuations. The BTST technique is useful for investors who want to hold onto a stock for more than a day but lack the necessary finances to do so overnight. BTST means enabling traders to purchase shares now and sell them tomorrow without having the trades show in the trader's Demat account. In such a way, traders can profit from higher stock prices shortly. In this blog, we’ll learn what is BTST trade, what BTST trade means, and more.

 How to do a BTST Trade

Traders must access both an online trading account and a Demat account to make BTST trades. The steps involved are as follows. 

  • The shares are bought by traders who plan to sell them the next day in a BTST trade. Let's look into the scenario where shares are bought on Friday. 
  • Following the trade settlement cycle, the shares are credited to their Demat account on Monday (T + 1 day). 
  • These shares are set to be delivered as part of the sale transaction scheduled for Monday. 
  • The settlement is finalized when the shares designated on Monday are debited on Tuesday.

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Table of Content

  1.  How to do a BTST Trade
  2. How To Use BTST Trading Strategy?
  3. Advantages & Disadvantages of BTST Trading

How To Use BTST Trading Strategy?

Now that we understand what BTST trading means along with its merits and demerits, let’s learn to effectively use the BTST trading strategy.

1. Choose the Right Stocks

Identify stocks that exhibit potential for short-term price movements. Look for stocks with sufficient liquidity, trading volume, and volatility, as these factors can enhance the effectiveness of the BTST Trading strategy.

2. Conduct Technical Analysis

Utilize technical analysis tools and indicators to identify potential entry and exit points. Analyze charts, patterns, and trends to determine favorable buying opportunities. Common technical indicators include moving averages, support and resistance levels, and oscillators like the Relative Strength Index (RSI) or Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD).

3. Perform Fundamental Analysis

Consider the fundamental strength of the stock before executing a BTST trade. Analyze company news, earnings reports, industry trends, and any relevant market developments that could impact the stock's price movement. Fundamental analysis helps ensure you have a comprehensive understanding of the stock's potential prospects.

4. Set Entry and Exit Criteria

Define specific entry and exit criteria for your BTST trades. Determine the price level at which you plan to buy the stock and the desired profit target. Additionally, establish a stop-loss order to limit potential losses if the trade moves against you. Setting clear criteria in advance helps manage risk and maintain discipline during the trade.

5. Monitor Market Conditions

Stay updated on market news and events that could impact your BTST trades. Keep an eye on relevant economic data releases, company announcements, and any other factors that may influence the stock's price movement. Market conditions can change quickly, so it's important to monitor developments that could affect your positions.

6. Execute Trades 

Place the buy order at the desired entry price before the market closes. Ensure your brokerage account has sufficient funds or margin to hold the position overnight. It's important to adhere to the specific rules and regulations set by your broker or exchange for BTST trades.

7. Set Exit Strategy

Monitor the stock's price movement and evaluate whether it meets your predefined exit criteria. If the stock reaches your profit target or if it violates your stop-loss level, consider selling the position. It's crucial to stick to your predefined exit strategy rather than making emotional decisions.

8. Review and Analyze

After closing the BTST trade, review your performance and analyze the results. Assess the effectiveness of your strategy, identify any areas for improvement, and learn from both successful and unsuccessful trades. This feedback loop can help refine your approach and enhance your future BTST trading decisions.

Advantages & Disadvantages of BTST Trading

Now that you understand what is BTST trading, let’s find out the benefits and drawbacks of the strategy. BTST trading can offer the potential for quick profits. It carries increased risk due to overnight market fluctuations and limited trading time.

Advantages of BTST Trading

Disadvantages of BTST Trading

Opportunity for quick gains within a short timeframe from overnight price movements.

Exposure to high risk due to sudden price fluctuations and potential losses.

Eliminates costs associated with holding stocks overnight by selling the next day.

Requires a 40% margin deposit with no margin facilities provided by brokers.

Benefits from short-term price variations without long-term commitments.

Success relies on precise timing and quick execution, with penalties for delivery failures.

Conclusion
The BTST strategy requires thorough research, risk management, and adherence to specific rules and regulations set by brokerage firms and exchanges. It offers advantages such as extended trading opportunities, reduced intraday volatility, and flexibility. However, it is essential for traders to continuously educate themselves, adapt to changing market conditions, and monitor their trades diligently. Traders should conduct a comprehensive analysis, define entry and exit criteria, and employ proper risk management techniques to mitigate potential risks and maximize the chances of success Utilizing a reliable stock market app can assist traders in tracking market trends and managing their trades effectively. 

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FAQs on What is BTST Trading

Traders typically use technical analysis tools, such as chart patterns, indicators, and support/resistance levels, to identify potential entry and exit points. Additionally, considering fundamental analysis and market news can help in making informed trading decisions.

Margin trading can be employed in BTST trading, but it is subject to the margin requirements set by your brokerage. It is crucial to understand the margin rules and risks associated with trading on margin before engaging in BTST trades.

BTST trading can be executed in various market conditions. However, it is important to assess market trends, volatility, and overall risk appetite to ensure that the strategy aligns with the prevailing market environment.

Different exchanges and regulatory authorities may have specific rules and regulations for BTST trading. It is important to familiarise yourself with these guidelines, settlement procedures, and margin requirements set by the respective authorities and your brokerage firm.

BTST trading requires a certain level of market knowledge, experience, and risk management skills. While beginners can learn and apply the strategy, it is recommended to start with smaller positions, gain experience, and gradually increase involvement in BTST trades.

Trading in equities and stocks covered under Additional Surveillance Measures (ASM) and Graded Surveillance Measures (GSM) is prohibited for BTST.

The ideal time to buy BTST equities is 30 to 60 minutes before the market closes, and you should sell them as soon as possible the following day. It offers you a one-day holding period, providing a short-term opportunity to gain from the expected price changes.