Global crypto exchange Coinbase has officially resumed operations in India, two years after halting its services in the country. The platform is now allowing users to sign up again and trade cryptocurrencies, marking a significant step in its global expansion and commitment to the Indian market.
The return comes after regulatory challenges forced Coinbase to pause its operations in April 2022. At the time, Indian regulators raised concerns over compliance and local payment systems, leading the exchange to temporarily exit. Now, Coinbase is back with a renewed focus and strategy to work within India’s evolving crypto environment.
Why Coinbase Left — And Why It’s Back
Coinbase initially launched in India in 2022 with great expectations, but soon faced hurdles due to the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) informal pressure on payment gateways and regulatory uncertainties. These issues made it difficult for users to fund their accounts, which eventually led to the suspension of services.
Two years later, Coinbase has revamped its approach. The platform is now prioritizing regulatory alignment and clearer communication with Indian authorities. The re-entry suggests Coinbase sees long-term potential in India’s vast crypto user base, despite the country’s cautious stance on digital assets.
What This Means for Indian Crypto Users
Indian users can now create new accounts, trade cryptocurrencies, and access Coinbase’s global trading platform. While local fiat on-ramps may still face limitations, the reopening signals growing confidence in the Indian market. It also reflects Coinbase’s strategy to tap into emerging markets with strong crypto interest.
As crypto adoption grows globally, Coinbase’s return to India highlights the resilience of major players willing to re-engage with challenging but promising regions.