Bank of Russia Proposes Controlled Expansion of Crypto Market

The Central Bank of Russia has shared in a blog post a new plan to regulate cryptocurrencies and allow more retail investors to take part in crypto-related activities. At the same time, the bank has issued rules to keep strong checks and risk controls in place. 

This shows the central bank wants wider access but remains cautious about digital assets.

Bank of Russia Sets Separate Rules for Crypto Investors

Under the proposed framework, both retail and professional investors would be allowed to buy digital assets, but under different conditions. 

As announced, retail investors would face the strictest limits. They would only be able to invest in the most liquid and well-known virtual coins, with an annual cap of 300,000 rubles. 

All transactions would be routed through a single licensed intermediary to ensure proper supervision. In addition, investors would need to meet specific testing standards before being granted access. 

Professional investors, on the other hand, would enjoy broader freedom. Large-scale investors would not face transaction limits but would be restricted from purchasing anonymous cryptocurrencies. 

This distinction reflects the central bank’s view that experienced investors are better equipped to manage risk.

Crypto Still Seen as a High-Risk Asset in Russia

The Bank of Russia mentioned that all crypto-related activity would continue to operate through existing licensed institutions. This covers exchanges, brokers, and trustees. 

The proposal also added new rules for special crypto depositories and exchangers to improve oversight. These steps aim to make crypto activities clearer and ensure firms are held responsible.

Despite allowing wider access, the Bank of Russia said digital coins like Bitcoin (BTC) are still risky. The central bank pointed to big price changes, no government backing, and risks linked to international sanctions as its main concerns.

For this reason, cryptocurrencies and stablecoins would be recognized as monetary assets that can be bought and sold, but not used for domestic payments within Russia.

Russia Expands Digital Asset Rules and Sets Legal Timeline

The framework extends beyond crypto assets to include digital financial assets (DFAs) and other Russian digital rights. These assets would be allowed to circulate on open networks. The move is aimed at attracting foreign investment and increasing the visibility of Russia’s digital asset market.

Furthermore, the Bank of Russia has submitted its proposals for legislative changes to the government for review. It aims to finalize the legal framework by July 1, 2026. Penalties for illegal activities by crypto intermediaries would come into force a year later, starting July 1, 2027.

This comes as regulators had pushed for a full ban on all crypto activities, following earlier threats to block trading platforms.