How can cryptocurrency help the unbanked?

The poorest around the world have no proper documentation. They are either missing a birth certificate, do not have an Aadhaar card, never received an education certificate or applied for a passport. Without these documents, getting a bank account is next to impossible.

On the other hand, cryptocurrencies need no documentation. All that's required is a smartphone, the internet and a small learning curve. There are also plenty of online videos to guide people and help them set up their wallets and start transacting.

Accessibility: The cities are filled with bank branches, but the remote areas are often neglected. This is not the fault of the banks; it's just capitalism at work. Fortunately, cryptocurrencies need no bank branches; they only require a smartphone and the internet. Moreover, with smartphones becoming cheaper and internet connectivity spreading in leaps and bounds, cryptocurrencies have the potential to reach every nook and corner of the world.

No minimum balance: What might sound like a stretch for city dwellers is, in fact, a big problem for the poor of the country. They cannot maintain a minimum balance. Today, most savings accounts require a minimum balance of Rs 1,000, which goes up to Rs 25,000 for some accounts.

Most of the unbanked population do not have that kind of money or cannot afford to keep it just lying in the account. Plus, fines are also threatened if the account balance dips below the minimum requirement. All this chases people away from traditional banking. Crypto needs no minimum balance, you don't even need to use the wallet regularly to keep it activated.

Takes out human bias: The banking system is run by people. This allows room for intolerance and prejudice. For instance, there is always a chance of someone from a certain race or caste being denied banking services. However, with algorithms running the show, crypto doesn't care about your colour, caste, religion or creed; you are a number among numbers and will be treated that way. Indiscriminately.

As mentioned earlier, anyone can create a crypto wallet. After setting up the wallet, one can send and receive payments in crypto. This allows individuals to transact without a bank account. They can quickly receive remittances from their relatives abroad without any paperwork or formalities. They can also store the crypto in their wallet and watch it grow over time. This allows them to beat the devaluing effect of inflation. It is much better than keeping physical cash at home, and in some cases, it also trumps money tucked away in a fixed deposit.

Right now, the hype around cryptocurrency is tied to incredible returns and investors making tons of money. However, when the buzz fizzles down, cryptos will stand out because they are quick, affordable and all-inclusive means of transacting. They cut out banks and intermediaries from the financial sector and make it easier for people to store, send and receive value.