India Sees Coinbase Return As Exchange Reopens Registrations

Coinbase appears to be re-engaging with the Indian market after years of limited activity. A Dec. 7 report from Techcrunch stated that the exchange quietly reopened onboarding in India, allowing users to access crypto-to-crypto trading once again. The development reflects renewed interest in a market with one of the world largest internet user bases.

Good to Know

• Coinbase has resumed onboarding in India after a multiyear pause.
• Crypto-to-crypto trading is available while a fiat on-ramp is planned for 2026.
• Coinbase Ventures increased investment in Coindcx as the firm expands its India workforce.

Coinbase Reopens Registrations In India And Signals Long-Term Expansion

Techcrunch reported that Coinbase restarted user registrations in India and is preparing for a future fiat on-ramp scheduled for 2026. The outlet also detailed comments from John O Loghlen, the exchange APAC director, who discussed why the company stepped back from the market in previous years.

He said:

“We had millions of customers in India, historically, and we took a very clear stance to off-board those customers entirely from overseas entities, where they were domiciled and regulated.”

O Loghlen explained that the strategy aimed to reset operations in the country. He added:

“Because we wanted to kind of burn the boats [sic], have a clean slate here. As a commercial business person wanting to make money and active users, that’s like the worst thing you can do, and so you know it wasn’t without some hesitation.”

India maintains one of the toughest tax frameworks for digital assets, including a 30 percent levy on crypto income and a 1 percent deduction on each transaction. O Loghlen said the company wants to reinforce trust among users:

“I think we want to be known as that trusted exchange, ensure that your funds are safe with us.”

He also stressed the importance of user experience for broader adoption in India, stating:

“We’re not going to get out to the masses if you can’t have a really nice UI, a trusted experience that allows you to on board in a matter of minutes in the same way that you do with you know Zepto or Flipkart or any other super app in India.”

Alongside renewed onboarding, Coinbase Ventures increased its investment in Coindcx, one of India major crypto firms. Coinbase also plans to grow its India team of more than 500 employees, signaling confidence in long-term opportunities despite an ongoing restrictive tax environment.

FAQ

What has Coinbase restarted in India?

The exchange has resumed onboarding and now allows crypto-to-crypto trading for new users.

When will a fiat on-ramp be available?

According to the Techcrunch report, Coinbase is preparing to release a fiat on-ramp in 2026.

Why did Coinbase previously step back from India?

The company off-boarded earlier users to create what executives described as a clean slate for future operations.

What challenges does Coinbase face in the country?

India imposes a 30 percent tax on crypto income and a 1 percent deduction on each trade, which affects user activity and market adoption.

Is Coinbase investing further in India?

Yes. Coinbase Ventures increased its investment in Coindcx, and the company plans to expand its India workforce.