Wealthy Indians shift to crypto as traditional assets lag
Crypto trading volumes surge among India’s elite, led by family offices and institutional investors with long-term strategies.
As Indian equities plateau and fixed-income instruments underperform, the country’s wealthiest investors are increasingly turning to cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin’s recent surge past $123,000 and global institutional support have made digital assets a compelling addition to long-term portfolios.
Family offices, institutional players and high-net-worth individuals (HNIs) are shifting strategies, prioritising allocation plans and custody options over crypto’s legitimacy. Major Indian exchanges report rising volumes mainly from sophisticated investors, not retail traders seeking quick gains.
The trend is further fuelled by global signals, including the return of Donald Trump to the US presidency and bipartisan support for crypto regulation. International exposure and the rise of Bitcoin ETFs have also influenced Indian investor sentiment, particularly among those with cross-border holdings.
Despite the momentum, India’s 30% capital gains tax and 1% TDS continue to hinder broader participation. While the ultra-wealthy can absorb these costs, the crypto industry argues that friendlier tax rules are essential for innovation and mainstream adoption.
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