Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani endorses cryptocurrencies as tool to boost economy

Infosys Founder Nandan Nilekani has affirmed that embracing cryptocurrency can boost the Indian economy. Nilekani has called on Indians to embrace cryptocurrencies as an asset that can be bought and sold. However, he also maintained that India's very own  Unified Payments Interface digital payments system is more effective. In an interview, Nilekani remarked that crypto can be used as an asset similar to gold or real estate. However, he said that it can certainly not be used in a transactional sense.

Nandan Nilekani on cryptocurrency and Indian economy 

The Infosys co-founder expressed that if individuals and businesses get into the $1.5tn cryptocurrency market, it would allow crypto persons to put their wealth in India's economy. However, limitations prevail in India as the country's stand is not clear on cryptocurrency. In addition, a ban is in place even as recent times have seen more cryptocurrency traders and enthusiasts. Last year, the Supreme Court of India had slashed a 2018 central bank directive clamping down on crypto. In addition, some banks in India had recently threatened users who were engaged in cryptocurrency trading. However. the RBI recently responded by saying that banks cannot  stop people from investing in cryptocurrency.

RBI's take on cryptocurrency in India 

Issuing a clarification, the RBI stated that its 2018 circular no longer stands. This comes after multiple private and public banks sent their customers letters against the trading of virtual currencies. These banks cited the RBI's 2018 circular in order to caution their customers against investing in the cryptocurrency market. Banks like HDFC and SBI has sent mails to customers asking them to refrain from investing in crypto. In addition, the customers were also warned that their banking services will be curtailed. According to the emails, the authorities inquired about the customers’ transactions involving digital currencies including Bitcoin. The HDFC and SBI had cited to RBI's 2018 circular. However, it was later struck down by the Supreme Court of India.