Discover how the crypto boom is reshaping crypto trading in India, with smaller cities like Botad and Jalandhar leading the charge and driving diverse investments.

India’s Crypto Boom: How Smaller Cities Surpassed Metros in 2024

The Indian cryptocurrency market has demonstrated a major transformation and the crypto boom has been quite evident, especially in the year 2024. What was previously dominated by large metropolitan areas is seen flourishing in smaller towns and cities throughout the nation in the year 2024.

Locations such as Botad, Barbaka, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Patna, Kanchipuram, and Dehradun are emerging as crucial players when it comes to crypto trading in India, highlighting significant growth beyond urban centers.

What is fueling this crypto boom?

The strong enthusiasm of younger investors in crypto trading, under the age of 35 is a key factor, as they seek to diversify their investments and tap into the opportunities presented by cryptocurrencies.

With more than 20 million crypto users in India, primarily within the 18 to 35 age group, this demographic shift is altering the market landscape.

The Surge of Age Influence on Crypto

Crypto trading in India is increasingly being honored by quite young investors. About 75% fall below the age of 35, with individuals aged 26 to 35 representing 42% of the market. The youngest segment, aged 18 to 25, accounts for an impressive 30%.

Although older age brackets historically dominated financial markets, the 36 and older demographic has also begun to demonstrate a growing interest, making up 28% of crypto involvement in 2024. This youthful enthusiasm is resulting in a more varied investment strategy.

From foundational tokens like Bitcoin and Ethereum to meme coins and DeFi tokens, younger investors are delving into all aspects of the crypto space. This year, Bitcoin’s remarkable rise to $100,000 further heightened interest, reinforcing its reputation as a preferred investment choice.

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Meme Coins: A Remarkable Leader

One of the notable trends in 2024 has been the astounding growth of meme coins. Representing 13% of total crypto trading in India, meme coins have captured widespread attention. Leading the way is Dogecoin, which comprises 55% of meme coin investments, with Pepe (12%) and BONK (6%) following.

While SHIB continues to be the most actively traded meme coin, PEPE garnered significant attention, achieving an incredible 1300% increase this year. The appeal of meme coins stems from their ease of access and community-driven approach.

For younger investors involved in crypto trading in India, they serve as a gateway into the crypto realm, offering both high-risk and high-reward prospects.

India’s Rising Crypto Hubs Beyond Major Cities

While Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Mumbai remain at the forefront of crypto adoption, the crypto boom in smaller cities is changing the narrative.

For the first time, Kolkata and Botad have entered the top 10 cities for crypto investment.

Jaipur has moved up two positions in crypto trading, while towns like Barbaka and Jalandhar have shown strong engagement in specific areas.

Bengaluru

The top destination for Layer-1 investments, capturing 49% of the market activity.

Barbaka, Assam

An unexpected leader in DeFi investments, contributing 24%.

Jalandhar

Recognized for its strong interest in meme coin crypto trading, it is responsible for 18% of this category.

Karnal

Excelled in the gaming token sector with 11% market share.

Mysore

Took the forefront in Layer-2 tokens with over 8% involvement.

These advancements emphasize how smaller cities are not only keeping pace but excelling in specialized crypto segments, signaling a deeper spread of crypto knowledge and adoption.

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The Reasons Behind Smaller Cities Getting Involved

Multiple factors are driving the cryptocurrency surge in smaller Indian towns.

Technology Accessibility

The rise of budget-friendly smartphones and internet access has allowed a wider audience to engage in crypto trading.

Educational Initiatives

Services like CoinSwitch are working to inform users, simplifying the complex world of digital assets for newcomers.

Financial Ambitions

For many residents of Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, cryptocurrency presents an opportunity to gain financial freedom and move beyond the confines of traditional investment options.

Enthusiasm Among Youth

The younger demographic in these regions is adept with technology and willing to try new things, making them prime candidates for adopting innovative financial solutions.

Portfolio diversification: What Fuels Investments?

In 2024, the cryptocurrency portfolio in India showcased considerable diversification:

Layer-1 Tokens

Led the market with a 37% share, indicating significant interest in foundational currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

DeFi Tokens

Claimed the second position with 17%, highlighting increasing confidence in decentralized finance avenues.

Meme and Gaming Tokens

Secured spots in the top five categories, spurred by excellent returns and active community involvement.

Layer-2 Tokens

Rose as an important segment, addressing needs for scalability and efficiency.

Collectively, these categories made up more than 81% of India’s total crypto investments this year.

A Year of Change for India

2024 has been a significant year for the state of cryptocurrencies worldwide. Widespread adoption has expedited due to significant political and legal changes, which have also influenced India.

The democratization of digital assets, which enables participation in this financial progression by individuals from diverse backgrounds, is demonstrated by the expansion of cryptocurrency from urban areas to smaller localities.

Balaji Srihari, Vice President of CoinSwitch, accurately captured this shift, “What was once limited to large metropolitan areas is rapidly reaching Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, demonstrating the expanding allure of crypto. Indian investors are diversifying their investments, looking into everything from meme coins to Layer-1 and DeFi assets.”

The Future Prospects of Crypto in India

As India’s cryptocurrency environment continues to develop, the inclusion of smaller towns and cities is poised to alter its direction.

These areas hold significant unexplored potential and their increasing engagement hints at a more promising and inclusive outlook for digital assets in the nation.

The combination of youthful vigor, technological accessibility, and financial aspirations is fostering a lively and dynamic cryptocurrency scene that’s distinctly Indian.

Whether you’re a seasoned trader or an interested newcomer, one thing is certain: the cryptocurrency surge in India is just beginning, and it’s no longer limited to urban centers. Excitement is everywhere, and the possibilities are limitless.

FAQ's

Smaller cities in India are embracing the crypto surge due to affordable technology, awareness initiatives, and the enthusiasm of a younger generation.

In India, the majority of crypto investors are under 35 years old, with notable participation from the 18-25 and 26-35 age groups.

Emerging as crypto hotspots, cities such as Botad, Barbaka, Jalandhar, Patna, and Dehradun are becoming increasingly significant in specialized crypto markets.

Meme coins are gaining popularity among younger investors because they are easy to access, foster community involvement, and present high-risk, high-reward potential, which attracts new participants.

The trend of diversified portfolios is influencing India's crypto surge, as investors delve into various assets, including Layer-1 and Layer-2 tokens, DeFi, and gaming tokens, highlighting a vibrant market landscape.