The term 'Discount Broker' generally refers to brokerage firms who are able to offer trading at discounted rates on the basis of an 'execution-only' model. This is in contrast to the older 'full-service' model, where the broker provided analysis and advice in order to aid trading decisions. Due to the proliferation of online electronic trading, 'discount brokerage' is now by far the most widespread model. Here's a bit more information on the types of broker service available and how they differ from one another: http://bestbrokerdeals.com/choosing-a-broker/ Firms in India are the same as elsewhere in the world and operate under these same models - if your broker in India offers and execution only account then this is a discount broker.