Crypto Budget 2025: Impact on Cryptocurrency Investors & New Compliance Rules

Crypto Budget 2025 :- The Union Budget 2025 keeps the crypto tax unchanged at 30% on gains and 1% TDS on transactions, adding new compliance rules under Section 285BAA. Find out how this affects crypto investors in India.


Crypto Budget 2025: No Tax Relief, Stricter Compliance for Crypto Investors

Introduction

The Union Budget 2025, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, has left crypto investors disappointed. Despite hopes for tax relief and a clear regulatory framework, the government has maintained the 30% tax on gains and 1% TDS on transactions. Additionally, new compliance requirements have been introduced to increase oversight of digital asset transactions.

Crypto Budget 2025: Impact on Cryptocurrency Investors & New Compliance Rules
Crypto Budget 2025: Impact on Cryptocurrency Investors & New Compliance Rules

No Tax Relief for Crypto Investors

Crypto traders were expecting relief from the high tax burden, but the government has kept taxation unchanged:

  • 30% tax on gains from cryptocurrency transactions
  • 1% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on every trade

Industry leaders argue that these tax policies reduce liquidity, discourage retail investors, and hinder innovation in India’s Web3 and blockchain sectors.

“The Union Budget 2025 offers no respite for crypto investors, as taxation policies remain unchanged. This continues to create liquidity issues, discouraging retail participation and innovation,” said Sathvik Vishwanath, CEO of Unocoin, a leading cryptocurrency exchange.

New Compliance Requirements for Crypto in India

The Finance Minister has proposed stricter compliance rules for cryptocurrency transactions, making it mandatory to report all crypto transactions.

  1. Section 285BAA of the Income Tax Act, 1961:
    • Crypto exchanges and investors must report all transactions.
    • This will enhance government oversight on digital asset trading.
  2. Crypto Gains Classified as Undisclosed Income:
    • Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) are now included in the definition of undisclosed income under the Income Tax Act.
    • If unreported crypto gains are discovered during an income tax raid, authorities can impose:
      • 60% tax on the gains
      • 50% penalty on the tax amount
  3. Expansion of the Virtual Digital Asset (VDA) Definition:
    • The definition of VDAs under Section 2(47A) now includes all crypto assets using cryptographic security and distributed ledger technology.
    • This ensures broader regulatory coverage for all types of digital assets.

When Will These Rules Take Effect?

The new crypto compliance rules will come into effect on April 1, 2026.

“Given the stringent penalties, it is crucial for all crypto investors to duly report their gains under the Schedule VDA section of their Income Tax Return (ITR),” said CA Sonu Jain, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at 9Point Capital.

Government’s Approach to Cryptocurrency

India has taken a strict stance on cryptocurrency in recent years:

  • 2023: Crypto was brought under anti-money laundering laws.
  • 2024: Crypto futures and options were excluded from the increase in Securities Transaction Tax (STT).
  • 2025: No changes in taxation, but stricter compliance requirements.

Conclusion

The Crypto Budget 2025 has disappointed investors by keeping the high 30% tax and 1% TDS unchanged. Additionally, new compliance measures, such as Section 285BAA, aim to increase government oversight and classify unreported crypto gains as undisclosed income.

With penalties as high as 60% tax + 50% penalty, crypto traders must ensure proper reporting to avoid legal trouble. As India’s crypto regulations tighten, investors must stay informed and compliant to navigate the evolving landscape.


FAQs

1. How does the Crypto Budget 2025 affect Indian crypto investors?

The Union Budget 2025 keeps the 30% tax on gains and 1% TDS unchanged. Additionally, new compliance rules make it mandatory to report all crypto transactions.

2. What is Section 285BAA in the Income Tax Act?

Section 285BAA requires crypto exchanges and investors to report all transactions, ensuring stricter government oversight on digital asset trading.

3. What happens if I don’t report my crypto gains in India?

Unreported crypto gains will be considered undisclosed income, attracting a 60% tax + 50% penalty if detected during an income tax raid.

4. When do the new crypto compliance rules take effect?

The new regulations will be implemented on April 1, 2026.

5. Has India made any changes to the 30% crypto tax in 2025?

No, the 30% tax on crypto gains and 1% TDS on transactions remain unchanged in Crypto Budget 2025.

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