Russian Central Bank Digital Asset Regulatory Framework
In mid-2026, the Bank of Russia introduced draft regulations to formalize the digital asset market, establishing operational standards for crypto trading, digital depositories, and retail investor participation. The framework includes specific capital requirements for intermediaries and limits the types of assets available to unqualified investors.
Aggregated from 7 sources · Updated 24 Aug 2026, 03:13 UTC (UTC)
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Facts (10)
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The Bank of Russia has presented draft regulatory acts for the organized trading of cryptocurrencies, digital currencies, and digital rights.
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Digital depositories in Russia are required to have a minimum equity of 50 million to 250 million rubles depending on their scope of activity.
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Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, plans to launch a crypto trading infrastructure and digital depository by December 1, 2026.
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The new regulations for crypto trading, custody, and settlement are scheduled to take effect on September 1, 2026.
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The Bank of Russia will maintain the official register of digital depositories.
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Digital depositories are required to operate under principles similar to traditional securities depositories.
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Retail investors in Russia will be restricted to trading only Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and Tether (USDT).
- EmergingNiche Signal
Retail investors face a purchase limit of 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,600) per year for each approved digital currency.
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Brokers and asset managers may include digital currencies in their capital calculations up to a maximum share of 25%.
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The use of cryptocurrency as payment for goods and services remains prohibited within Russia.