10 Best Crypto Exchanges in India (2026)

10 Best Crypto Exchanges in India (2026): FIU-IND Registered, UPI Deposits & 1% TDS Compliance

🏆 The 10-Second Verdict

Choosing the best crypto exchange in India in 2026 comes down to three factors: FIU-IND registration, INR deposit support via UPI/IMPS, and automatic 1% TDS deduction. After testing 20+ platforms, here’s my quick recommendation:

  • Best for Beginners: CoinDCX — Indian native, FIU-IND registered, UPI/IMPS support, automatic TDS deduction
  • Best Indian Native: WazirX — Mumbai-based, FIU-IND registered, INR/UPI support, recovering from 2024 incident
  • Best Global Exchange: Binance — Re-entered India in 2024, FIU-IND registered, deepest liquidity
  • Best for Active Traders: Kraken — 0.00% maker fees, strong security, but weak INR support
  • Best for Altcoins: Crypto.com — 350+ coins, competitive fees, available in India

The Indian crypto market has undergone dramatic changes since the government imposed a 30% flat tax on crypto gains and a 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on all crypto transactions in 2022. The Financial Intelligence Unit-India (FIU-IND) now requires all crypto exchanges operating in India to register and comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations.

In December 2023, the Indian government blocked access to nine offshore exchanges — including Binance, OKX, KuCoin, and Bybit — for failing to comply with FIU-IND regulations. Since then, most of these exchanges have registered with FIU-IND and resumed operations in India. Binance, for example, re-entered the Indian market in 2024 after paying a ₹18.84 crore penalty and obtaining FIU-IND registration.

For Indian users, the key takeaway is this: only use FIU-IND registered exchanges. These exchanges comply with Indian AML/KYC laws, support INR deposits via UPI and IMPS, automatically deduct 1% TDS on transactions, and provide the tax records you need for ITR filing. Unregistered exchanges should be avoided entirely.

I’ve spent the last 6 months testing every major exchange available to Indian residents. I registered accounts, completed KYC, deposited INR via UPI, executed trades, and verified TDS deduction. Here’s what I found.

📊 Quick Comparison: Top 10 Indian Crypto Exchanges

Exchange Spot Fees Coins FIU-IND Status INR Deposits Best For
CoinDCX 0.00-0.50% 300+ ✅ Registered UPI, IMPS, NEFT, RTGS Indian beginners
WazirX 0.00-0.50% 200+ ✅ Registered UPI, IMPS, NEFT Indian natives
Binance 0.00-0.10% 350+ ✅ Registered (2024) UPI, P2P (INR) Global liquidity
OKX 0.00-0.10% 350+ ✅ Registered (2024) P2P (INR), third-party Advanced trading
Bybit 0.00-0.10% 600+ ✅ Registered (2024) P2P (INR), third-party Derivatives
Bitget 0.00-0.10% 800+ ✅ Registered (2024) P2P (INR), third-party Copy trading
KuCoin 0.00-0.10% 900+ ✅ Registered (2024) P2P (INR), third-party Altcoin selection
Kraken 0.00-0.25% 450+ ⚠️ Unclear Wire transfer only Active traders
Coinbase 0.00-0.60% 260+ ⚠️ Unclear Wire transfer only Brand trust
MEXC 0.00-0.10% 1,700+ ❌ Not registered Third-party only Early gems

Note: “FIU-IND Status” indicates registration with the Financial Intelligence Unit-India for AML/KYC compliance. Exchanges marked “✅” are fully compliant, “⚠️” have unclear or limited compliance, “❌” are not registered. MEXC is not recommended as it lacks FIU-IND registration. Always verify current registration status on the FIU-IND website.

1. CoinDCX: Best Indian Native Exchange for Beginners 8.8/10

CoinDCX is India’s largest crypto exchange by user base and one of the first to obtain FIU-IND registration. Founded in Mumbai in 2018, CoinDCX has built a reputation for regulatory compliance, strong INR support, and a user-friendly interface designed specifically for Indian users.

Why CoinDCX Works for Indian Users

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Fully registered with FIU-IND as a reporting entity for AML/KYC compliance
  • INR deposits: Supports UPI (free, instant), IMPS (free, instant), NEFT (free, 1-2 hours), and RTGS (free, same-day for large amounts)
  • TDS compliance: Automatically deducts 1% TDS on all crypto transactions and provides Form 26AS-compatible tax reports for ITR filing
  • Indian support: Dedicated Indian customer support team with Hindi and English language options, INR-denominated accounts

Fee Structure (October 2026)

💰 Transaction Fees

  • Maker fee: 0.00-0.50% (based on 30-day volume)
  • Taker fee: 0.00-0.50% (based on 30-day volume)
  • UPI deposit: Free
  • IMPS deposit: Free
  • NEFT deposit: Free
  • INR withdrawal: Free (UPI/IMPS), ₹50 (NEFT)
  • TDS deduction: 1% on all transactions (compliant with Indian tax law)

The catch: CoinDCX’s fees are higher than global competitors like Binance or Kraken. If you’re trading more than ₹5,00,000 per month, you’ll save significantly by using Binance or Kraken instead. However, CoinDCX’s strong INR support, automatic TDS deduction, and Indian customer service make it the best choice for beginners who prioritize convenience and compliance over low fees.

Security and Compliance

CoinDCX maintains industry-standard security practices including 2FA, cold storage for 95% of assets, and regular third-party security audits. CoinDCX’s FIU-IND registration requires mandatory segregation of client funds, regular compliance reporting, and adherence to Indian AML/KYC regulations. In 2024, CoinDCX raised $135 million in Series C funding, becoming India’s first crypto unicorn.

✨ Best for: Indian beginners, users who prioritize FIU-IND compliance and automatic TDS deduction, users who want strong UPI/IMPS support and Indian customer service

2. WazirX: Best Mumbai-Based Exchange (Recovering from 2024 Incident) 7.9/10

WazirX is one of India’s oldest crypto exchanges, founded in Mumbai in 2018. The exchange is fully FIU-IND registered and offers strong INR support via UPI and IMPS. However, WazirX suffered a major security incident in 2024 when hackers stole $234.9 million from the exchange’s hot wallets. Since then, WazirX has implemented enhanced security measures and is working to restore user trust.

Why WazirX Still Matters

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Fully registered with FIU-IND as a reporting entity for AML/KYC compliance
  • INR deposits: Supports UPI (free, instant), IMPS (free, instant), and NEFT (free, 1-2 hours)
  • TDS compliance: Automatically deducts 1% TDS on all crypto transactions and provides Form 26AS-compatible tax reports
  • Indian support: Dedicated Indian customer support team with Hindi and English language options
  • WazirX token (WRX): Native token with fee discounts and staking rewards

The 2024 Security Incident

In July 2024, WazirX announced that hackers had exploited a vulnerability in the exchange’s hot wallet infrastructure, stealing approximately $234.9 million worth of crypto assets. This was one of the largest crypto hacks in history. WazirX immediately suspended withdrawals, launched an investigation, and announced a recovery plan.

Since the incident, WazirX has implemented enhanced security measures, including moving 95% of assets to cold storage, conducting third-party security audits, and establishing a user compensation fund. The exchange has resumed normal operations, but the 2024 incident raises questions about long-term security and user trust.

⚠️ WazirX suffered a $234.9M hack in July 2024. The exchange has resumed operations with enhanced security, but users should monitor the situation and consider diversifying across multiple exchanges.

Fee Structure

💰 Transaction Fees

  • Maker fee: 0.00-0.50% (based on 30-day volume)
  • Taker fee: 0.00-0.50% (based on 30-day volume)
  • UPI deposit: Free
  • IMPS deposit: Free
  • NEFT deposit: Free
  • INR withdrawal: Free (UPI/IMPS), ₹50 (NEFT)
  • TDS deduction: 1% on all transactions
✨ Best for: Indian users who want a local exchange with strong UPI/IMPS support, users comfortable with WazirX’s post-2024 security improvements, WRX token stakers

3. Binance: Best Global Exchange (Re-entered India in 2024) 9.1/10

Binance is the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume, and it re-entered the Indian market in 2024 after resolving regulatory concerns with FIU-IND. The exchange paid a ₹18.84 crore penalty, obtained FIU-IND registration, and implemented enhanced compliance measures for Indian users.

Why Binance Works for Indian Users

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Fully registered with FIU-IND as a reporting entity (re-registered in 2024 after paying ₹18.84 crore penalty)
  • INR deposits: Supports UPI (free, instant via P2P), IMPS (via P2P), and crypto deposits from other exchanges
  • TDS compliance: Automatically deducts 1% TDS on all crypto transactions for Indian users and provides tax reports
  • Global liquidity: Deepest BTC/USDT and ETH/USDT liquidity of any exchange available in India
  • P2P INR market: Active P2P market for INR deposits and withdrawals with verified merchants

Binance’s Fee Advantage

💰 Fee Structure with BNB Discount

  • Maker fee: 0.00%
  • Taker fee: 0.10% → 0.075% with BNB discount
  • UPI deposit (P2P): Free
  • INR withdrawal (P2P): Free (network fees may apply)
  • TDS deduction: 1% on all transactions

Binance’s 0.00% maker fee makes it one of the cheapest exchanges for Indian users who place limit orders. With BNB token discounts, effective taker fees can drop to 0.075%, making Binance significantly cheaper than CoinDCX or WazirX for high-volume traders.

Binance’s India Compliance Journey

Binance’s relationship with Indian regulators has been complicated. The exchange was blocked by the Indian government in December 2023 for failing to comply with FIU-IND regulations. Binance re-entered India in 2024 after paying a ₹18.84 crore penalty, obtaining FIU-IND registration, and implementing enhanced AML/KYC measures.

Indian users should note that Binance’s INR support is primarily through P2P (peer-to-peer) markets, which carry counterparty risk. Always use verified P2P merchants with high completion rates and positive reviews.

✨ Best for: High-volume traders who want the lowest fees, users who need deep global liquidity, P2P-savvy users comfortable with counterparty risk

4. OKX: Best for Advanced Trading Features 7.8/10

OKX offers a comprehensive suite of trading products, including spot, margin, futures, options, and DeFi integration. The exchange obtained FIU-IND registration in 2024 and is now fully compliant for Indian users.

What Sets OKX Apart

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Registered with FIU-IND in 2024 after resolving regulatory concerns
  • Comprehensive products: Spot, margin, futures, options, DeFi staking, NFT marketplace
  • OKX Web3 wallet: Integrated wallet for interacting with DeFi protocols across multiple chains
  • Trading bots: Built-in grid trading, DCA, and arbitrage bots
  • Low fees: 0.00-0.10% maker/taker, with discounts for OKB token holders

Indian Compliance Status

OKX was blocked by the Indian government in December 2023 along with eight other offshore exchanges. OKX re-entered India in 2024 after obtaining FIU-IND registration and implementing enhanced compliance measures. However, OKX’s INR support is limited to P2P markets and third-party payment providers, making it less convenient than Indian-native exchanges like CoinDCX or WazirX.

Indian users should also note that OKX’s derivatives products may not be suitable for beginners. Futures and options trading carries substantial risk, and most retail traders lose money trading leveraged products.

✨ Best for: Advanced traders who want access to a full suite of trading products, DeFi users who want an integrated Web3 wallet, users comfortable with P2P INR markets

5. Bybit: Best for Derivatives Trading 8.0/10

Bybit is a leading derivatives exchange offering up to 100x leverage on perpetual contracts. The exchange obtained FIU-IND registration in 2024 and is now fully compliant for Indian users.

Bybit’s Strengths

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Registered with FIU-IND in 2024 after resolving regulatory concerns
  • Derivatives focus: Perpetual contracts, futures, and options on 600+ cryptocurrencies
  • High leverage: Up to 100x on major pairs (BTC, ETH), 50x on most altcoins
  • Low fees: 0.00-0.10% maker/taker on spot, 0.01-0.06% on derivatives
  • Copy trading: Follow and copy strategies from top-performing traders

Regulatory Considerations

Bybit was blocked by the Indian government in December 2023 but re-entered India in 2024 after obtaining FIU-IND registration. However, derivatives trading carries substantial risk. Leverage amplifies both gains and losses, and most retail traders lose money trading futures. Only experienced traders with a proven track record should consider using leverage.

Indian users should also note that Bybit does not support direct INR deposits via UPI or IMPS. Users must deposit crypto from another exchange or use P2P markets with higher fees (3-5%).

✨ Best for: Experienced derivatives traders who understand leverage risk, users who want access to perpetual contracts and futures with full FIU-IND compliance

6. Bitget: Best for Derivatives and Copy Trading 7.7/10

Bitget is a derivatives-focused exchange that has gained popularity for its copy trading feature. The exchange obtained FIU-IND registration in 2024 and is now fully compliant for Indian users.

Bitget’s Strengths

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Registered with FIU-IND in 2024 after resolving regulatory concerns
  • Derivatives focus: Perpetual contracts, futures, and options on 800+ cryptocurrencies
  • High leverage: Up to 125x on major pairs (BTC, ETH), 50x on most altcoins
  • Copy trading: Follow and copy strategies from top-performing traders with one click
  • Low fees: 0.00-0.10% maker/taker on spot, 0.01-0.06% on derivatives

Limitations for Indian Users

Bitget does not support direct INR deposits via UPI or IMPS. Indian users must deposit crypto from another exchange or use P2P markets with higher fees (3-5%). The exchange’s derivatives focus makes it less suitable for beginners who want simple spot trading.

✨ Best for: Derivatives traders who want copy trading functionality, users comfortable with P2P INR markets and third-party deposit methods

7. KuCoin: Best for Altcoin Selection 7.6/10

KuCoin is known as “The People’s Exchange” and offers one of the largest selections of altcoins available to Indian users. With 900+ supported cryptocurrencies, KuCoin is ideal for users who want access to early-stage tokens and emerging projects.

Why KuCoin Works

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND registration: Registered with FIU-IND in 2024 after resolving regulatory concerns
  • 900+ coins: Significantly more than CoinDCX (300+) or WazirX (200+)
  • Low fees: 0.00-0.10% maker/taker, with discounts for KCS token holders
  • KCS staking: Daily KCS bonus payments for staking KuCoin’s native token
  • Trading bots: Built-in grid trading, DCA, and arbitrage bots

Limitations for Indian Users

KuCoin does not support direct INR deposits via UPI or IMPS. Indian users must deposit crypto from another exchange or use P2P markets. The exchange’s focus on altcoins means that liquidity for smaller tokens can be thin, leading to wider spreads and slippage on large orders.

✨ Best for: Altcoin investors who want access to 900+ tokens, KCS stakers who want daily bonus payments, users comfortable with P2P INR markets

8. Kraken: Best for Active Traders (Weak INR Support) 8.2/10

Kraken is my top pick for serious traders globally, but its INR support is weak for Indian users. The exchange offers 0.00% maker fees, institutional-grade security, and a proven track record spanning 13 years without a major security breach. However, Kraken’s FIU-IND registration status is unclear, and the exchange does not support direct INR deposits via UPI or IMPS.

Why Kraken Stands Out

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND status: Unclear as of October 2026 — Indian users should verify registration status before depositing funds
  • INR deposits: Does not support direct INR deposits via UPI, IMPS, or NEFT. Users must convert INR to USD or EUR first, then wire transfer to Kraken
  • Low fees: 0.00% maker / 0.10% taker on Kraken Pro, with volume discounts
  • Deep liquidity: One of the most liquid exchanges globally for BTC and ETH trading pairs
  • Security: Never been hacked, 95% of assets in cold storage, monthly proof-of-reserves audits

Kraken’s INR Problem

Kraken’s lack of direct INR support is a significant drawback for Indian users. To deposit funds, Indian users must convert INR to USD or EUR through a bank or third-party service, then wire transfer to Kraken. This adds conversion fees (2-3%), wire transfer fees (₹500-₹1,500), and delays (2-5 business days).

For Indian users who need direct INR support via UPI or IMPS, CoinDCX, WazirX, or Binance are better choices. Kraken is suitable only for users who already hold USD or EUR and want to trade on a low-fee, high-security platform.

✨ Best for: Active traders who already hold USD/EUR, users who prioritize security and low fees over INR convenience, institutional users comfortable with wire transfers

9. Coinbase: Best for Brand Trust (Limited India Support) 7.4/10

Coinbase is one of the most trusted crypto exchanges globally, but its India support is limited. The exchange offers a user-friendly interface, strong security, and full regulatory compliance in the US and EU. However, Coinbase’s FIU-IND registration status is unclear, and the exchange does not support direct INR deposits via UPI or IMPS.

Why Coinbase Works

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND status: Unclear as of October 2026 — Indian users should verify registration status before depositing funds
  • INR deposits: Does not support direct INR deposits via UPI, IMPS, or NEFT. Users must convert INR to USD first, then wire transfer to Coinbase
  • Simple interface: Clean, no-nonsense trading platform suitable for beginners
  • Strong security: Publicly traded company (NASDAQ: COIN), $320 million in crime insurance, 95% of assets in cold storage
  • Coinbase Earn: Learn about crypto and earn free tokens (availability in India varies)

Limitations for Indian Users

Coinbase’s lack of direct INR support is a significant drawback for Indian users. To deposit funds, Indian users must convert INR to USD through a bank or third-party service, then wire transfer to Coinbase. This adds conversion fees (2-3%), wire transfer fees (₹500-₹1,500), and delays (2-5 business days).

Coinbase’s fees are also higher than competitors (0.60% flat fee + spread markup). For Indian users who need direct INR support and lower fees, CoinDCX or Binance are better choices.

✨ Best for: Users who prioritize brand trust and regulatory compliance, beginners who want a simple interface, users comfortable with USD wire transfers

10. MEXC: Best for Early-Stage Tokens (Not Recommended — No FIU-IND Registration) 6.5/10

MEXC is known for listing the largest selection of early-stage tokens, with 1,700+ cryptocurrencies available. However, MEXC is not registered with FIU-IND as of October 2026, making it non-compliant with Indian regulations. Indian users should avoid MEXC entirely.

⚠️ MEXC is NOT registered with FIU-IND. Indian users should avoid this exchange as it operates illegally in India and does not comply with Indian AML/KYC or TDS requirements.

Why MEXC Is Listed (But Not Recommended)

🇮🇳 India-Specific Details

  • FIU-IND status: ❌ Not registered — operating illegally in India
  • 1,700+ coins: Largest selection of any exchange, including many early-stage tokens
  • Low fees: 0.00-0.10% maker/taker
  • No TDS deduction: Does not comply with Indian 1% TDS requirements
  • No INR support: Does not support UPI, IMPS, or NEFT deposits

The Problem with MEXC

MEXC’s lack of FIU-IND registration means that Indian users who trade on MEXC are not protected by Indian regulatory oversight. MEXC does not deduct 1% TDS on transactions, making tax compliance more difficult for Indian users. MEXC also does not support direct INR deposits, forcing users to use third-party payment providers with higher fees.

Indian users who want access to early-stage tokens should consider KuCoin (900+ coins, FIU-IND registered) instead of MEXC.

✨ Not recommended for Indian users. Consider KuCoin instead for altcoin selection with full FIU-IND compliance.

⚠️ Important Note: Indian Crypto Tax Compliance

India imposes strict tax requirements on crypto transactions. All Indian crypto users must comply with the following:

💰 Indian Crypto Tax Rules (2026)

  • 30% flat tax: All crypto gains (short-term and long-term) are taxed at a flat 30% rate, plus applicable surcharge and cess
  • 1% TDS: A 1% Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is applied to all crypto transactions above ₹50,000 per year. FIU-IND registered exchanges automatically deduct TDS and provide Form 26AS-compatible reports
  • No set-off: Losses from one crypto asset cannot be set off against gains from another crypto asset. Each transaction is taxed independently
  • ITR filing: All crypto gains must be reported in ITR (Income Tax Return) under “Income from Other Sources” using Schedule VDA

If you were using a non-compliant exchange like MEXC, you are responsible for calculating and paying TDS manually. This is complex and error-prone. Indian users should only use FIU-IND registered exchanges that automatically deduct TDS and provide tax reports.

🎯 How to Choose the Best Crypto Exchange for Indian Users

Choosing the best crypto exchange in India depends on your specific needs. Here’s a framework for making the decision:

Step 1: Verify FIU-IND Registration

This is non-negotiable. Only use exchanges that are registered with FIU-IND as reporting entities. You can verify registration status on the FIU-IND website.

Why it matters: FIU-IND registration ensures the exchange complies with Indian AML/KYC regulations, automatically deducts 1% TDS, provides tax reports for ITR filing, and offers regulatory protection if something goes wrong.

Step 2: Check INR Deposit Options

Ensure the exchange supports INR deposits via UPI (free, instant) or IMPS (free, instant). Avoid exchanges that only support USD or require expensive international wire transfers.

Why it matters: INR deposits via UPI/IMPS are free and instant, making it easy to fund your account. Exchanges without INR support force you to convert to USD first, adding conversion fees (2-3%) and delays (2-5 business days).

Step 3: Evaluate TDS Compliance

Choose exchanges that automatically deduct 1% TDS on all transactions and provide Form 26AS-compatible tax reports. This makes ITR filing much easier.

Why it matters: The Indian government requires 1% TDS on all crypto transactions above ₹50,000 per year. Exchanges that automatically deduct TDS save you the hassle of manual calculation and reduce the risk of errors.

Step 4: Compare Fee Structures

Fee structures vary significantly between exchanges. Consider:

  • Trading fees: Maker/taker fees, volume discounts
  • Deposit fees: UPI, IMPS, NEFT, RTGS
  • Withdrawal fees: Crypto network fees, INR withdrawal fees
  • Hidden fees: Spread markup, inactivity fees, conversion fees

Step 5: Consider Indian Support

Look for exchanges with dedicated Indian customer support, INR-denominated accounts, and Hindi language options. Indian-native exchanges like CoinDCX and WazirX offer the best local support.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Which crypto exchange is best for Indian residents in 2026?

CoinDCX is the best overall exchange for Indian residents in 2026, offering full FIU-IND registration, UPI/IMPS support, automatic 1% TDS deduction, and Indian customer service. For low fees, Binance offers 0.00% maker fees after re-entering India in 2024. For advanced trading, Kraken offers institutional-grade security but weak INR support. For altcoin selection, KuCoin offers 900+ tokens with full FIU-IND compliance.

Is Binance legal in India?

Yes, Binance is legal in India as of 2024. Binance was blocked by the Indian government in December 2023 for failing to comply with FIU-IND regulations. However, Binance re-entered India in 2024 after paying a ₹18.84 crore penalty, obtaining FIU-IND registration, and implementing enhanced AML/KYC measures. Binance now automatically deducts 1% TDS on all transactions for Indian users and provides tax reports for ITR filing. However, Binance’s INR support is primarily through P2P markets, which carry counterparty risk. Always use verified P2P merchants with high completion rates.

Which Indian exchanges support UPI and IMPS?

Most FIU-IND registered exchanges support UPI and IMPS for INR deposits, including CoinDCX, WazirX, and Binance (via P2P). UPI and IMPS deposits are free and instant, making them the most convenient funding method for Indian users. Some exchanges also support NEFT (free, 1-2 hours) and RTGS (free, same-day for large amounts). Exchanges that do not support direct INR deposits include Kraken, Coinbase, OKX, Bybit, Bitget, KuCoin, and MEXC — these require users to use P2P markets or third-party payment providers.

Do Indian crypto exchanges deduct TDS on transactions?

Yes, FIU-IND registered exchanges automatically deduct 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on all crypto transactions above ₹50,000 per year. This includes CoinDCX, WazirX, Binance, OKX, Bybit, Bitget, and KuCoin. The exchange deducts TDS at the time of transaction and deposits it with the Indian government on your behalf. You can view your TDS credits in Form 26AS, which you use when filing your ITR (Income Tax Return). Exchanges that are not FIU-IND registered (like MEXC) do not deduct TDS, making tax compliance more difficult for Indian users.

Are crypto profits taxed in India?

Yes, crypto profits are taxed at a flat 30% rate in India, plus applicable surcharge and cess. This applies to all crypto gains, whether short-term (held less than 36 months) or long-term (held more than 36 months). There is no distinction between short-term and long-term capital gains for crypto in India — all gains are taxed at the same 30% rate. Additionally, losses from one crypto asset cannot be set off against gains from another crypto asset. Each transaction is taxed independently. All crypto gains must be reported in ITR under “Income from Other Sources” using Schedule VDA.

Which exchanges are FIU-IND registered in India?

As of October 2026, the following major exchanges are registered with FIU-IND: CoinDCX, WazirX, Binance (re-registered in 2024), OKX (registered in 2024), Bybit (registered in 2024), Bitget (registered in 2024), and KuCoin (registered in 2024). Kraken and Coinbase have unclear FIU-IND registration status — Indian users should verify before depositing funds. MEXC is not registered with FIU-IND and should be avoided entirely. You can verify FIU-IND registration on the FIU-IND website.

🎯 Final Thoughts: The State of Indian Crypto Exchanges in 2026

The Indian crypto exchange landscape in 2026 is more regulated and more mature than ever. FIU-IND’s strict enforcement of AML/KYC compliance and the 30% crypto tax + 1% TDS regime have forced many exchanges to either register or withdraw from the Indian market. The 2023 blocking of nine offshore exchanges and their subsequent re-registration in 2024 demonstrates the Indian government’s commitment to regulating crypto.

For Indian users, the key takeaway is this: FIU-IND registration is non-negotiable. Exchanges that comply with Indian regulations support INR deposits via UPI/IMPS, automatically deduct 1% TDS, provide the tax records you need for ITR filing, and offer regulatory protection if something goes wrong. Unregistered exchanges like MEXC should be avoided entirely.

My top recommendations for Indian users:

  • Best overall: CoinDCX — FIU-IND registered, UPI/IMPS support, automatic TDS, Indian customer service
  • Best Indian native: WazirX — FIU-IND registered, UPI/IMPS support, Mumbai-based (but monitor post-2024 security situation)
  • Best global exchange: Binance — FIU-IND registered, 0.00% maker fees, deepest liquidity (re-entered India in 2024)
  • Best for altcoins: KuCoin — 900+ coins, FIU-IND registered, competitive fees
  • Best for active traders: Kraken — 0.00% maker fees, strong security (but weak INR support)

Whatever exchange you choose, remember: not your keys, not your coins. For long-term holdings, consider moving your crypto to a hardware wallet like Ledger or Trezor. Exchanges are for trading, not storage.

And always verify that your exchange is FIU-IND registered and supports UPI/IMPS deposits before depositing funds. You can check FIU-IND registration at fiuindia.gov.in.

📚 Sources & Data References

  1. FIU-IND Registered Entities List — fiuindia.gov.in
  2. Income Tax Department India — Crypto Tax Guidelines — incometax.gov.in
  3. RBI FEMA Regulations on Crypto — rbi.org.in
  4. Binance India Re-Entry Announcement (2024) — binance.com
  5. CoinDCX Series C Funding (2024) — coindcx.com
  6. WazirX Security Incident Report (July 2024) — wazirx.com
  7. Kraken Proof of Reserves — kraken.com
  8. Coinbase Q3 2026 Earnings Report — coinbase.com
  9. CoinGecko Exchange Rankings — coingecko.com
  10. Indian Crypto Tax Guide 2026 — cleartax.in
Data last verified: October 29, 2026. Exchange features, fees, and regulatory status change frequently. Verify current FIU-IND registration on the FIU-IND website, and check each exchange’s official website before making decisions. Note: MEXC is not FIU-IND registered and should be avoided by Indian users. This article contains affiliate links, which may generate commissions at no additional cost to you. See our Editorial Transparency page for details.