Uber Driver Loses ₹2.5 Lakh in Options Trading, Vows Never to Trade Again Until He Has Better Capital
A recent viral video on X has reignited debate over the risks retail investors face in derivatives trading, especially options. The video features an Uber driver who revealed that he lost ₹2.5 lakh in options trading—a sum equal to his annual income, as he earns only ₹25,000 per month.
Speaking candidly about his financial setback, the driver explained, “In 2024, I lost ₹2.5 lakh trading options. I did have some stocks that ended up in profit, so I didn’t lose money there. The entire loss came from options trading.” He also admitted that he did not follow proper trading guidelines, which contributed to his loss.
When asked whether his loss was as much as his yearly income, the driver simply replied, “Yes.” He then clarified that he would not return to options trading until he has “good capital to invest.”
The driver also welcomed recent regulatory changes introduced by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), particularly the shift from weekly to monthly fund settlement for inactive accounts. “This is a good move by SEBI. It will help reduce the risk of fraud,” he said. However, he also expressed concern over the high brokerage fees charged by some firms.
The viral post further praised SEBI’s decisive action against multinational trading firm Jane Street, which allegedly manipulated the market. SEBI has seized ₹4,840 crore from the company.
This case highlights the growing risks faced by small investors entering complex financial markets without adequate preparation or capital—and serves as a cautionary tale amid India’s rising interest in trading.
