Is Colour Trading Legal in India? Regulatory Perspective

No image 5paisa Capital Ltd - 2 min read

Last Updated: 13th January 2026 - 09:58 am

Colour trading has become popular in India through online platforms that claim people can earn quick money by predicting colours. This makes many users wonder: is colour trading legal in India? The answer is not very clear. It mainly depends on how colour trading works and how Indian laws look at such activities.

What Colour Trading Involves

Colour trading usually works on prediction. Users choose a colour and place money on the outcome within a short time frame. If the prediction is correct, they earn a return. If not, the money is lost. The process looks simple and fast. That simplicity is also what raises legal concerns.

Unlike share trading or commodity trading, colour trading does not involve regulated financial assets. There is no ownership, no exchange mechanism, and no recognised market structure. This difference matters from a legal point of view.

Indian Laws and Colour Trading

India does not have a specific law that directly mentions colour trading. However, existing gambling laws play a key role. The Public Gambling Act, 1867, prohibits betting and gambling in most parts of the country. Many state laws follow the same approach, although rules can vary by region.

Courts in India usually separate activities into two categories: games of skill and games of chance. If chance plays the main role, the activity may be treated as gambling. Colour trading outcomes are often random and time-based. Because of this, regulators may view them as betting rather than lawful trading.

Regulatory and Consumer Risks

Colour trading platforms are not regulated by SEBI or any other financial authority. This means users do not get the protections that apply to legal investment products. Complaints, refunds, and dispute resolution can be difficult. Some platforms also operate without clear disclosures, which increases financial risk.

Use tools and data to navigate the stock market with more clarity and less guesswork.

Conclusion

So, is colour trading legal in India? At present, it sits in a legal grey area. While it is not clearly approved, it may still fall under gambling laws depending on how it operates. Users should be cautious and avoid treating it as a safe or regulated form of trading. Choosing lawful and transparent financial options remains the safer path.

FREE Trading & Demat Account
Open FREE Demat Account with endless opportunities.
  • Flat ₹20 Brokerage
  • Next-gen Trading
  • Advanced Charting
  • Actionable Ideas
+91
''
By proceeding, you agree to our T&Cs*
Mobile No. belongs to
OR
hero_form

Indian Stock Market Related Articles

Disclaimer: Investment in securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing. For detailed disclaimer please Click here.

Open Free Demat Account

Be a part of 5paisa community - The first listed discount broker of India.

+91

By proceeding, you agree to all T&C*

footer_form