India to include crypto assets in financial account reporting from 2026

Core Viewpoint - India has revised its income tax rules to expand the scope of financial account reporting, now including crypto assets, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), and specific electronic money products [1][2]. Group 1: Changes in Financial Account Reporting - The updated framework includes income streams such as interest linked to crypto and crypto-related holdings, indicating a shift towards comprehensive tax reporting of digital asset activities [2]. - Crypto asset service providers and certain financial institutions are now required to report transactions and balances involving these assets to tax authorities [2]. Group 2: Definition and Monitoring of Financial Assets - The definition of "financial assets" has been broadened to encompass CBDCs and various electronic money instruments within the tax reporting framework [1]. - The definition of "depository institutions" has been revised to include accounts representing electronic money products or holding CBDCs, necessitating more detailed monitoring of these accounts by banks and depositories [3]. Group 3: New Conditions for Accounts - New conditions have been established for accounts related to company formation or capital raising, with some depository accounts having year-end balances below $10,000 being exempt from these requirements [4]. - Financial institutions must maintain valid self-certifications and obtain taxpayer identification numbers and dates of birth, in compliance with the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act, 2002 [4]. Group 4: Applicability of the New Rules - The obligations apply to both existing and newly opened accounts, including joint account holders and controlling persons, for account categories where the balance exceeds $10,000 [5]. - The amended rules are specifically applicable to non-US accounts [5].