Correct Option: 1 (Brokers)

• Depository Participants (DPs) serve as a link between investors and depositories like NSDL or CDSL.
• They assist in the dematerialization and electronic management of securities.
• DPs ensure secure and efficient handling of shares, bonds, and other financial instruments.
• They also facilitate trading transactions such as buying and selling securities.
• Since DPs provide these services, they are often referred to as brokers in the financial ecosystem.
• This simplifies the process for investors, eliminating the need for physical certificates and promoting transparency in the securities market.