Impact of Crypto-currency on Investors and the Indian Economy- an Empirical Study

India is witnessing a remarkable digital and financial transformation fueled by a surge in internet users and initiatives promoting financial inclusion and digitalization. With approximately 190 million unbanked individuals in India, the country ranks second globally in terms of people lacking access to banking services. However, the landscape is rapidly changing. An ICUBE report by IAMAI and Kantar (2021) projects that active internet users in India, which stood at about 622 million in 2020, are expected to rise by 45% to around 900 million by 2025 (IAMAI and Kantar, 2021). This digital evolution makes the population increasingly receptive to cryptocurrencies, enhancing financial inclusion. Cryptocurrencies offer an alternative to traditional banking and investment avenues, which have underserved a significant portion of the Indian populace. They enable more affordable and accessible
transactions, introducing consumers to new asset classes for investment growth. The increased internet penetration, particularly in rural areas, and the population's growing
interest in digital assets are pivotal in this shift. Recent studies show a significant uptick in cryptocurrency investments and ownership among Indian urban residents, signaling a move towards a more diversified and digital financial ecosystem.