IRCTC Shares Rise Despite NSE Removing Stock from F&O List from February 25, 2026: What Traders Need to Know
Shares of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) climbed on the stock market even as the National Stock Exchange (NSE) confirmed that the company will be removed from the Futures & Options (F&O) segment starting 25 february 2026. The announcement—which comes amid broader revisions of F&O eligibility norms—has sparked both investor interest and debate among traders.📊 What the F&O Removal MeansBeing removed from the F&O list does not mean a ban on the stock, but it does change how it can be traded:
Some traders believe that being an F&O stock normally adds liquidity and price discovery. With irctc exiting the derivatives segment, there could be reduced intraday volume in future sessions after february 2026, though this does not inherently weaken the company’s fundamentals.2. Leverage and hedging unavailable:
Without futures and options, strategies like short selling via derivatives or leveraged long positions will no longer be possible for IRCTC. Traders will need to rely solely on equity positions.3. Long‑term perspective may still prevail:
Many retail and institutional investors focus on earnings growth, dividends, and sector leadership rather than derivative eligibility. IRCTC’s core businesses in ticketing, catering, tourism, and potential new ventures—such as payment aggregator services—continue to be key fundamentals.
Bottom Line:
While removal from the F&O list changes how irctc can be traded, it does not remove the stock from the market, nor does it signal impending weakness in the business. Investors who trade with a long‑term view—focusing on fundamentals rather than leveraged derivatives—may continue to find value in IRCTC’s equity performance. Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
- No new derivatives contracts: After the expiry of the february 2026 series, no new futures or options contracts on irctc will be introduced on NSE.
- Existing derivatives phased out: Contracts expiring in December 2025, january 2026, and february 2026 will still trade until their respective expiration dates.
- Shift to cash market: Post‑February 25, irctc can only be traded in the cash (equity) segment, meaning traders cannot use leverage or hedging strategies tied to F&O for this stock.
- Cash market demand stayed strong: Traders focusing on the equity segment are still active, and many long‑term investors view IRCTC’s business fundamentals as solid.
- Positive catalysts: Broader interest in railway‑related stocks and specific developments—such as fare rationalisation or operational updates—continued to support buying interest.
- Derivatives removal isn’t negative per se: The F&O exit doesn’t affect the underlying company’s revenue, earnings, or cash business, and many investors focus on these core metrics rather than derivative eligibility.
Some traders believe that being an F&O stock normally adds liquidity and price discovery. With irctc exiting the derivatives segment, there could be reduced intraday volume in future sessions after february 2026, though this does not inherently weaken the company’s fundamentals.2. Leverage and hedging unavailable:
Without futures and options, strategies like short selling via derivatives or leveraged long positions will no longer be possible for IRCTC. Traders will need to rely solely on equity positions.3. Long‑term perspective may still prevail:
Many retail and institutional investors focus on earnings growth, dividends, and sector leadership rather than derivative eligibility. IRCTC’s core businesses in ticketing, catering, tourism, and potential new ventures—such as payment aggregator services—continue to be key fundamentals.
Bottom Line:
While removal from the F&O list changes how irctc can be traded, it does not remove the stock from the market, nor does it signal impending weakness in the business. Investors who trade with a long‑term view—focusing on fundamentals rather than leveraged derivatives—may continue to find value in IRCTC’s equity performance. Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.