Crypto Exchange Seeks India’s Approval As Users Hit Roadblock

As a seasoned crypto investor with a fair share of experience navigating the volatile and ever-changing regulatory landscape, I’ve witnessed firsthand how India’s stance on cryptocurrency has evolved. The Indian crypto market was once a beacon of opportunity, but now, it’s experiencing a chilling effect as authorities tighten their grip.


As an analyst, I’ve observed a significant shift in the Indian crypto market landscape. What was once a thriving ecosystem teeming with opportunities is now grappling with regulatory challenges. The authorities have taken a firm stance, tightening their grip on the sector, leading major crypto exchanges to adapt or face consequences. Restricted services, substantial fines, and even closures are becoming commonplace.

Failing The KYC Test

Binance, a prominent player in the global cryptocurrency market, faced the consequences of India’s regulatory complexities earlier this year. The Financial Intelligence Unit of India (FIU-IND) alleged that Binance had been operating without authorization and neglected to comply with KYC (Know Your Customer) regulations.

As a crypto investor, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges Binance faced in India when they were hit with a months-long service suspension and a hefty $2.25 million penalty for violating the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). It was a tough blow for all of us in the community.

Exodus And Adaptation

Some cryptocurrency exchanges, such as OKX, struggled to comply with intricate regulations and eventually closed shop. In contrast, Kucoin thrived, marking itself as India’s first fully regulatory-compliant platform for trading digital currencies.

Crypto Exchange Seeks India’s Approval As Users Hit Roadblock

This milestone underscores the significance of adjusting to the current reality – a business landscape in which obtaining regulatory approval is crucial for thriving. Two prominent entities, Kraken and Bitfinex, serve as cautionary tales following their reduced services as penalties for failing to comply.

Bitget: Can They Dodge The Knockout Punch?

Bitget, a well-known exchange that recently joined the Indian regulatory scene, is currently dealing with user limitations due to its Indian clientele being denied full access to the platform. In order to overcome these challenges and adhere to regulations, Bitget has committed to navigating the complex regulatory maze and ensuring compliance.

As a crypto investor, I understand that accessing the Bitget platform in India has become challenging due to current regulatory restrictions. However, I want to assure you that we’re working diligently to find solutions that will enable us to serve this region while adhering to local compliance requirements. Our top priority is to provide a reliable and secure trading experience for all our users, including those in India. Stay tuned for updates on our progress.

— Bitget India (@BitgetIndia) July 3, 2024

To ensure a smooth user experience in the region, the exchange openly explored options for adhering to local regulations.

Bitget announced that users in India are currently experiencing difficulties accessing their platform. The company is actively working on finding solutions to provide services in the region while adhering to the necessary regulatory compliance.

The outcome of their business depends on obtaining a license from Indian authorities before they face a devastating setback, which may result in their exit from the profitable Indian market.

The Future Of Crypto In India

India’s position regarding cryptocurrency aligns with a global pattern – the quest to capitalize on this emerging asset class’s benefits while addressing concerns surrounding illicit activities and financial volatility. The enforced 30% taxation on crypto earnings signifies the Indian government’s endeavor to assimilate cryptocurrencies within the established financial framework.

As a researcher studying the Indian crypto market, I believe that the present regulatory landscape, although stringent for some exchanges, holds potential for fostering a more developed and accountable digital currency sector in the future.

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2024-07-04 15:42