Taming the Future: The Curious Case of Taxation of Cryptocurrencies in India
Hatim Hussain · Journal of Business & Financial Affairs · 2017
Nearly twenty-five years ago, the internet disrupted the world and started a new era of technological supremacy. Today, with the rise of cryptocurrencies and its underlying technology we stand at the helm of another such revolution. Cryptocurrencies like bitcoin are peer-to-peer decentralized systems of digital currencies which operate without the need for a third-party intermediary like RBI. Coupled with lack of regulatory guidance, its unique technical aspects create huge complications in its taxation. While much ignorance still prevails in respect of cryptocurrencies, countries around the world have finally started taking notice and act upon it. This paper overviews the complete landscape of taxation of bitcoin-like cryptocurrencies. In this paper, an attempt is made to explain the indirect as well as direct tax structure concern cryptocurrencies, particularly after the implementation of Goods and Service Tax Act, 2017. The paper explains what bitcoins are, why are they important and whether it is necessary for the Government to regulate it. In addition, it discusses the prevailing regulatory structure as well as issues concerning evasionary practices in digital currencies. The findings help assess regulatory aspects in light of technological, economic, social and financial forces and establishes a set framework for taxation of cryptocurrencies.