The imposed tax has adversely impacted short-term investors and day-to-day trading volume
A 30% taxation on income from cryptocurrency and other virtual assets, was followed with the government’s decision to add a one percent tax deductible at source (TDS) on cryptocurrency transactions from July 1, this year. Even as this appeared as the first step towards regularising the sector, it is felt that the industry is reeling under an adverse impact of such steps. “From the perspective of cryptocurrency trading volume, it has dropped. The implementation of these tax laws has caused the stagnancy of Indian cryptocurrency markets. Prices are also getting lower. Short-term and day traders will get affected due to the implementation of the one percent TDS,” Shivam Thakral, CEO, BuyUcoin, told FE Online.
Industry expert opined that the move by the government will ward off investment from international players. According to Anndy Lian, chairman, BigONE exchange, this will affect the market’s liquidity and foreign investors will look to stay away from Indian markets. “It will not be sustainable for investors in the long run. Active traders will get adversely affected as it would decrease day time trading. The overall market conditions would deteriorate, as more Indian cryptocurrency exchanges will look to settle outside,” he added.
Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author. The latest book is Web4: The Age of Autonomous Intelligence.