CNC, MIS and NRML

CNC (Cash and Carry) is a delivery trade where shares are owned and held indefinitely. MIS (Margin Intraday Square-off) is for intraday trading with margin. NRML (Normal) allows holding derivatives with margin overnight or longer.
CNC, MIS and NRML
3 mins
27-May-2025

The Indian financial market is a bustling hub of activity, with traders and investors employing various strategies to maximise their gains. Amidst this flurry of activity, it's crucial to understand the different types of orders that can be placed in the market to achieve specific goals. Three common types of orders that often leave traders perplexed are CNC, MIS, and NRML. In this article, we will understand these acronyms and shed light on their significance.

What is CNC?

CNC, or 'Cash and Carry', is an order type commonly used by investors in the stock market. In a CNC order, traders buy or sell stocks with the intention of taking delivery of the actual shares to their Demat account. These orders are settled on a T+1 (trade day plus one working day) basis, meaning that the shares will be transferred to the investor's Demat account two working days after the trade date.

CNC orders are well-suited for long-term investors who have a strong conviction about the potential of the underlying stock. This order type provides the opportunity to hold on to the shares for an extended period, benefiting from potential price appreciation and dividends.

What is MIS?

MIS, or 'Margin Intraday Square-off', is an order type designed for intraday traders looking to capitalise on short-term price movements. In an MIS order, traders can take leveraged positions, where they can trade a larger value of stocks with a relatively smaller margin amount. However, these positions must be squared off (i.e., reversed or closed) within the same trading session.

MIS orders are particularly suitable for traders who are well-versed in technical analysis and can swiftly make trading decisions based on intraday price movements. Due to the higher leverage involved, they can amplify both gains and losses, making risk management and timely decision-making crucial.

What is NRML?

NRML stands for Normal Margin Order or Normal Order in the Indian stock market. It allows traders to hold futures and options contracts until they expire, unlike day trading orders which require selling on the same day. These orders are especially relevant for those who wish to take a position in derivatives with a longer time horizon, beyond just the intraday trading.

NRML orders offer traders the flexibility to hold positions for a more extended period, enabling them to take advantage of trends that may unfold over a few trading sessions.

Difference between CNC and MIS Orders

The key difference between CNC and MIS orders lies in their intended holding periods. CNC orders are designed for investors who want to hold shares for the long term, whereas MIS orders cater to intraday traders who seek quick gains within a single trading session.

Key Takeaways

  • CNC orders involve taking delivery of shares for the long term, settled on a T+1 basis.
  • MIS orders are for intraday trading, allowing leveraged positions that must be squared off within the same trading session.
  • NRML orders are used for carrying forward positions in derivatives to the next trading session.
  • CNC is suited for long-term investors, MIS for intraday traders, and NRML for those trading in derivatives with longer time horizons.

Understanding the nuances of order types is crucial for anyone looking to navigate the financial market effectively. CNC, MIS, and NRML orders serve different purposes and cater to distinct trading strategies. Whether you're a long-term investor, an intraday trader, or someone venturing into derivatives, being well-versed in these order types will empower you to make more informed and strategic decisions, ultimately leading to a more successful trading journey.

Use Bajaj Financial Securities Limited (BFSL) Trading platform to start your trading journey today!

Pro tip

Invest in equities, F&O, and upcoming IPOs effortlessly by opening a Demat account online. Enjoy a free subscription for the first year with Bajaj Broking.

MIS, or 'Margin Intraday Square-off', is an order type designed for intraday traders looking to capitalise on short-term price movements. In an MIS order, traders can take leveraged positions, where they can trade a larger value of stocks with a relatively smaller margin amount. However, these positions must be squared off (i.e., reversed or closed) within the same trading session.

MIS orders are particularly suitable for traders who are well-versed in technical analysis and can swiftly make trading decisions based on intraday price movements. Due to the higher leverage involved, they can amplify both gains and losses, making risk management and timely decision-making crucial.

What is NRML?

NRML stands for Normal Margin Order or Normal Order in the Indian stock market. It allows traders to hold futures and options contracts until they expire, unlike day trading orders which require selling on the same day. These orders are especially relevant for those who wish to take a position in derivatives with a longer time horizon, beyond just the intraday trading.

NRML orders offer traders the flexibility to hold positions for a more extended period, enabling them to take advantage of trends that may unfold over a few trading sessions.

Difference between CNC and MIS Orders

When it comes to trading in the stock market, choosing the appropriate order type is essential. Two of the most commonly used order types in equity trading are CNC (Cash and Carry) and MIS (Margin Intraday Square-Off). The following table outlines the key distinctions between these two:

Particulars

CNC Order

MIS Order

Meaning

Cash and Carry

Margin Intraday Square-Off

Purpose

Used for delivery-based equity trading

Intended for intraday trading

Leverage

No leverage; full payment required

Leverage is typically offered by brokers

Holding Period

Can hold stocks indefinitely

Must square off positions within the same trading day

Auto Square-Off

Not applicable

Positions are auto squared-off before market close

Risk

Lower risk; no forced square-off

Higher risk due to automatic closure of positions

Settlement

Standard T+1 settlement cycle

No delivery involved; only intraday gains or losses apply

Suitable For

Investors with a long-term or medium-term view

Traders looking to benefit from daily price changes

 

MIS vs NRML orders

After understanding the role of MIS orders, it’s also important to examine how they differ from NRML (Normal) orders, especially within the derivatives and currency markets. Here’s a comparative overview:

Particulars

MIS order

NRML order

Meaning

Margin Intraday Square-Off

Normal

Purpose

Used for intraday trading

Used for positional trades in derivatives

Leverage

High leverage available

No leverage provided for intraday trades

Holding period

Only within the trading day

Can be held overnight or until expiry

Auto Square-off

Positions automatically squared off before close

No auto square-off; manual exit required

Risk

Higher risk

Relatively lower risk

Cost of carry

No overnight holding cost

Carrying cost applies for multi-day positions

Suitable for

Intraday trades in equity, F&O, and commodities

Positional trades in F&O and currency segments

 

Which type of order to use?

Choosing the right order type depends on your trading strategy and objectives.

  • CNC orders are ideal if you intend to hold shares for the long term or at least overnight, as they are meant for delivery-based trades in equities. Keep in mind, however, that no leverage is offered, and full payment must be made upfront.

  • MIS orders are best suited for intraday traders aiming to profit from short-term price fluctuations within a single trading session. This type of order allows you to use leverage, but any open positions will be automatically closed before the market ends.

  • NRML orders cater to traders involved in positional trading within the derivatives or currency segments. These orders permit holding positions beyond a single day and even until expiry. Nonetheless, they usually require an initial and maintenance margin to keep the trade active.

By aligning your order type with your trading goals and risk appetite, you can make more informed and effective trading decisions.

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page.

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.

Standard Disclaimer

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.

Research Disclaimer

Broking services offered by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited (BFSL) | Registered Office: Bajaj Auto Limited Complex , Mumbai –Pune Road Akurdi Pune 411035 | Corporate Office: Bajaj Financial Securities Ltd,1st Floor, Mantri IT Park, Tower B, Unit No 9 & 10, Viman Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411014| CIN: U67120PN2010PLC136026| SEBI Registration No.: INZ000218931 | BSE Cash/F&O (Member ID: 6706) | DP registration No : IN-DP-418-2019 | CDSL DP No.: 12088600 | NSDL DP No. IN304300 | AMFI Registration No.: ARN – 163403|

Research Services are offered by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited (BFSL) as Research Analyst under SEBI Regn: INH000010043. Kindly refer to www.bajajfinservsecurities.in for detailed disclaimer and risk factors

This content is for educational purpose only.

Details of Compliance Officer: Ms. Kanti Pal (For Broking/DP/Research)|Email: compliance_sec@bajajfinserv.in/Compliance_dp@bajajfinserv.in |Contact No.: 020-4857 4486 |

Investment in the securities involves risks, investor should consult his own advisors/consultant to determine the merits and risks of investment.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between MIS and CNC?

MIS (Margin Intraday Square-off) and CNC (Cash and Carry) are two types of orders used in the stock market. The CNC order type is used for Delivery trading and the MIS order type is used for intraday trading.

Can I use CNC for intraday?

Yes, you can use CNC (Cash and Carry) for intraday trading. In case of converting from CNC to MIS, it is necessary to exit your position before the specified intraday trading time. If not done so, your online broker will automatically close the position at a certain cost depending on the broker.

What does it mean by MIS order?

A MIS order is for intraday trading, requiring traders to close their positions within the same day and offering leverage.