Rangoli Techtraders : Early Industry Movers in Algorithmic Trading

Laxmi Niwas Maheshwari, Chairman, Rangoli

In India’s dynamic stock markets, proprietary trading has gained significant momentum, driven by the rise of algorithmic and high-frequency trading (HFT). Among the firms that identified and capitalized on these emerging opportunities early is Rangoli TechTraders Pvt Ltd. Established in 2007, Rangoli TechTraders has carved a niche for itself by blending technological advancements, disciplined risk management, and a strategic focus on diverse market segments.
 

Post-2008, the firm shifted its focus to systematic trading using Excel sheets, laying the groundwork for its current operations. By 2010, Rangoli began developing algorithmic trading systems, leveraging technology to gain a competitive edge in the market. During this transition, the team size was reduced to 5–6 key members, enabling a leaner and more focused operation. Over the years, the team has expanded to its current strength of 8–10 dedicated professionals, complemented by external specialists for technical support.

Today, Rangoli TechTraders specializes in derivatives, cash markets, and commodities, utilizing moderate-speed intraday and positional trading strategies. Unlike many of its peers, Rangoli TechTraders emphasizes a balanced approach, combining hedging and trend-following techniques to deliver consistent results.

Commitment to Risk Management
A hallmark of Rangoli TechTraders’ operations is its unwavering commitment to risk management. The firm avoids excessive leverage, adheres to exchangemandated margins, and refrains from using bank guarantees or external financing. Stringent stoploss mechanisms and careful position sizing ensure controlled exposure, safeguarding the company from market volatility.

This disciplined approach has been instrumental in maintaining stability, especially during challenging periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, which tested the resilience of even the most advanced trading systems.

A Family-Driven Legacy with a Technological Edge
At the core of Rangoli TechTraders is a compact yet experienced team. The leadership includes family members Laxmi Niwas Maheshwari, Arun Maheshwari, Sagar, and Ruchika, supported by a group of 8–10 long-serving employees. Many of these team members have been with the firm for over 15 years, bringing expertise in trading, operations, and strategy.

For technical tasks like coding and programming, the company collaborates with an external team of specialists, ensuring it stays at the forefront of algorithmic innovations. The firm is also investing in AI and machine learning technologies to further enhance its trading systems and maintain its competitive edge.

Navigating Challenges and Driving Innovation
No growth story is without its hurdles. For Rangoli TechTraders, the rapid market movements during the COVID-19 pandemic exposed areas that required upgrades in systems and infrastructure. In response, the company invested heavily in cuttingedge hardware and software, resulting in significant improvements in performance over the last four years.

Such proactive measures reflect the firm’s philosophy of viewing challenges as opportunities to innovate and strengthen its operations. This approach has helped Rangoli TechTraders maintain a CAGR of over 40 percent for the past 15 years.
                        
Resilience Beyond the Boardroom
The founders’ personal endeavors further illuminate the principles driving Rangoli TechTraders. Laxmi Niwas Maheshwari, an engineer from Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, embodies resilience and determination. His accomplishments include trekking to the Everest Base Camp, a physically demanding feat requiring mental strength and endurance, and undertaking two monumental road trips from India to London, first in 2022 and then again in 2024.
 

Each journey spanned over 15,000 kilometers, crossing more than 20 countries in 60 days, including Tibet, China, Central Asia, Iran, Turkey, and Europe.
 

Similarly, Arun Maheshwari, a fitness enthusiast and explorer, has traveled to more than 50 countries, often seeking paths less traveled. His love for discovery and adventure mirrors his approach to challenges in business, embracing the unfamiliar with curiosity and determination.
 

These extraordinary experiences reflect the founders' passion for exploration and resilience, qualities that shape Rangoli TechTraders' ethos. “We believe the best of a man emerges during the toughest times. Challenges are opportunities to grow stronger and innovate”, says Laxmi Niwas Maheshwari, Chairman, Rangoli TechTraders.
 

Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Rangoli TechTraders remains committed to its core focus on proprietary trading. While the firm has no immediate plans to expand into client trading or new markets, it is keenly focused on integrating AI-driven insights into its systems to further enhance efficiency and adaptability.
 

The founders emphasize that success is not just measured in numbers but also in personal fulfillment and societal contributions. “Achieving business milestones is important, but success should also be enjoyable and meaningful. Growth should enhance not just wealth but also well-being”, concludes Laxmi Niwas Maheshwari.