March 13, 2025
By Anjali Kochhar
Coinbase Global, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, has secured regulatory approval in India by registering with the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). This move marks a significant step in Coinbase’s efforts to re-enter the Indian market, with plans to launch retail crypto trading later this year, followed by additional investment products.
India’s Crypto Market: A Growing Opportunity
Despite strict taxation policies including a 30% tax on crypto profits and 1% TDS on transactions India remains a rapidly expanding digital asset market. Rising adoption among retail and institutional investors, along with an increasing number of blockchain developers, has positioned India as a key market for global crypto firms.
Coinbase’s re-entry brings it into competition with local exchanges like CoinDCX and WazirX, as well as international platforms such as Binance and KuCoin. However, its global reputation and compliance-first approach may give it an edge.
Navigating Regulatory Hurdles
By registering with the FIU, Coinbase has committed to India’s anti-money laundering (AML) and compliance standards, a crucial step for operating legally in the country. This follows its 2022 setback, when it had to suspend UPI-based crypto transactions due to regulatory uncertainty. Learning from that experience, Coinbase is now ensuring a fully compliant relaunch.
India’s lack of clear regulations on crypto exchanges has led to uncertainty, but the government has shown signs of reconsidering its stance on digital assets. With the country contributing 12% of the global blockchain developer talent, the demand for well-regulated crypto services is only growing.
What’s Next for Coinbase in India?
Coinbase’s return is expected to increase competition, improve liquidity, and bring more legitimacy to India’s crypto market. However, success will depend on how well it navigates the complex regulatory environment and builds trust among Indian users.
If regulatory clarity improves, Coinbase could play a major role in shaping the future of crypto trading in India offering secure, compliant, and global-standard investment opportunities to Indian traders and investors.
About the author
Anjali Kochhar covers cryptocurrency and blockchain stories in India as well as globally. Having been in the field of media and journalism for over four years now, she has developed a sharp news sense and works hard to present information that goes beyond the obvious. She is an avid reader and loves writing on a wide range of subjects.
