Coinbase’s India Obsession: No Launches, Just Curries and Compliance

So, Coinbase is going all-in on India, huh? Like, really all-in. No other launches for 12 months? That’s like me skipping every other episode of Seinfeld to focus on one Kramer storyline. But hey, if they’re betting on India, they must really love their curry. Or maybe they just can’t handle the spice of other markets.

John O’Loghlen, the APAC bigwig, spilled the beans to The Crypto Times. Apparently, Coinbase is so obsessed with India, they’ve built bespoke INR Rails technology. Bespoke? Really? It’s like they’re tailoring a suit for the rupee. And they’ve got local market makers from TradFi and fintech hedge funds. Because nothing says “we’re serious” like a bunch of hedge fund guys in Mumbai.

But here’s the kicker: Coinbase is cozying up to Indian law enforcement like I cozy up to free samples at Costco. They’re partnering with the CBI, responding to court orders, and even working on multi-year cases. It’s like they’re the crypto version of Law & Order: SVU. Except instead of catching perverts, they’re catching scammers. And let’s be honest, scammers are way more annoying.

Oh, and they’re hiring an India Country Director. Big deal. It’s like they’re looking for the Indian version of me-someone who can complain about everything while still getting the job done. Good luck with that.

Now, let’s talk compliance. Coinbase is all about it. They’re registered with the FIU-IND, attending parliamentary committees, and basically kissing every regulator’s ring. It’s like they’re the teacher’s pet of the crypto world. But hey, if it keeps them out of trouble, more power to them.

And get this: they’re not bringing prediction markets to India. Because, you know, gambling is illegal there. It’s like they’re saying, “We’re too smart to break the rules.” Meanwhile, other exchanges are probably sneaking it in like I sneak extra guacamole at Chipotle.

Finally, the tax regime. India’s got a 30% tax on crypto gains and a 1% TDS on every trade. O’Loghlen’s take? “Death and taxes are certain.” Deep. But he thinks young Indians will accept it because they’re in it for the long haul. Just like how I accept that I’ll never win an Emmy-it’s the price of being a genius.

So, there you have it. Coinbase is going full India, no other launches, just compliance and curry. Let’s see if it pays off. Or if they end up like me at a vegan restaurant-totally out of place.

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2026-06-02 10:01