"Only when Web3 feels as intuitive as UPI will the masses move from Web2 to Web3"

As India navigates the next phase of its crypto evolution, Unocoin, India's first cryptocurrency exchange, is doubling down on real-world utility with its latest move—integrating Tether (USDT) and Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network.

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With over 2.26 million users and handling ₹2B in monthly transactions, Unocoin has evolved from a Bitcoin-only platform into a full-fledged crypto finance ecosystem.

In this exclusive conversation, Sathvik Vishwanath, Co-Founder & CEO of Unocoin, breaks down how Lightning Network integration will unlock near-instant, ultra-low-cost transactions—bringing crypto usage closer to India's UPI-level convenience. From merchant settlements and freelance payments to stablecoin-led remittance flows, Vishwanath shares how Unocoin is building for scale, trust, and security in a heavily regulated landscape—and why India's IT talent must be reskilled now to lead the global Web3 economy.

How is Unocoin preparing to integrate Tether and Bitcoin payments over the Lightning Network for everyday use in India?

India's crypto journey is at a pivotal moment. With over 2.26 million users Unocoin stands as a key enabler of this transformation. As the country increasingly explores decentralized finance, Unocoin's evolving focus on user-centric innovation, stablecoins, and the Lightning Network is shaping what everyday crypto usage may look like in the next five years.

A few years ago, Unocoin was mostly a platform for early adopters experimenting with Bitcoin. Fast forward to today, and it has become a trusted on-ramp and off-ramp for Indians navigating everything from long-term investments to international payments and now—potentially—everyday purchases. This change in behavior is powered by both necessity and design.

The recent macroeconomic headwinds, including inflation and tightening regulations, have pushed Indian users to look beyond speculative trading. Today, users want security, utility, and trust—and Unocoin is responding by improving KYC standards, enabling risk-based withdrawal systems, and integrating institutional-grade wallet security.