MetaMask integrates Onramp.money to boost activity in India

Today, Metamask announced its partnership with Onramp.money, with expectations that it would be able to provide its customers in India with rapid transaction services.

The connection will make it possible for users in India to buy cryptocurrencies straight from inside the MetaMask wallet software by using Onramp.money’s API, which supports local payment methods like UPI and IMPS.

“We have every reason to expect this will play a role in accelerating the adoption of blockchain technology in India.”

Lorenzo Santos, MetaMask product manager.

We’re thrilled to announce that we’re joining forces with @onrampmoney to empower MetaMask users in India

You can now access UPI and IMPS for cheaper, faster, more efficient payments pic.twitter.com/sYmKZOP0CG

— MetaMask (@MetaMask) February 9, 2023

In India, Onramp.money is a leading supplier of crypto-to-fiat on-ramp services.

How is this integration set to aid crypto activities in India?

The integration will make it simpler for Indian customers to finance investment on the Ethereum, BNB, and Polygon Chain and use them within DeFi applications, in spite of the challenging regulatory structure for crypto assets in India, which includes a 30% tax on crypto gains and a 1% tax deducted at source.

The cryptocurrency sector in India continues to face obstacles, including the need for legislative certainty from the government and the difficulties in locating banking channels for on-ramping.

Nirmala Sitharaman, the Indian Finance Minister, did not mention any bitcoin asset-related changes or regulations in her recent budget address for the 2023-24 fiscal year, which she gave in preparation for the next fiscal year.

Despite this, both Sitharaman and other government officials have underlined the need for a unified approach to the regulation of cryptocurrencies, in line with laws adopted globally, in order to give crypto users in the nation clear rules.

Is India set to be a new crypto hub?

As the current G20 president, India, whose prime minister recently commented on crypto regulation and its adoption in India, has a unique opportunity to influence international crypto policy.

Due to the fact that its term just started in December, the country is in the driver’s seat as the developed world attempts to define the future of money. The election comes after crypto companies in India were critical of India’s new, high crypto taxes announced on Feb. 1, 2022.

According to the Esya Centre, a technology policy think tank based in New Delhi, between February, when the taxes were declared, and October 2022, when they were actually implemented, Indians transferred over $3.8 billion in trading volume from domestic to international crypto exchanges.

Numerous developments concerning crypto-related legislation in India are possible. However, India’s actions while it holds the G-20 presidency will provide some insight.