- Putin signed Russia’s first comprehensive cryptocurrency law.
- The law regulates crypto trading, exchanges, and investors.
- Russia permits regulated investing but keeps its domestic crypto payment ban.
Russia has formally established its first comprehensive legal framework governing cryptocurrency markets after President Vladimir Putin signed landmark legislation regulating digital asset activities nationwide. The new law introduces structured oversight across cryptocurrency exchanges, custodians, brokers, investors, clearing organizations, and other market participants.
As reported by Tass, the legislation expands regulated investment opportunities, authorities continue to prohibit cryptocurrencies from serving as legal payment instruments for domestic commercial transactions. The measure represents Russia’s most significant cryptocurrency policy development while balancing market access with financial oversight and regulatory control.
New Framework Defines Investor Access and Exchange Requirements
The new law establishes separate rules for retail and qualified cryptocurrency investors in Russia. Retail investors may purchase approved liquid cryptocurrencies through registered intermediaries, subject to an annual investment limit of 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,700), although authorities have not identified the eligible assets. Qualified investors face no investment limits once they meet regulatory requirements. Both investor categories must complete mandatory suitability testing, while retail participants may qualify for unrestricted status based on their cryptocurrency transaction history.
The legislation also introduces stricter operating standards for crypto exchanges. Every exchange must register with a special government registry, maintain minimum equity of 15 million rubles (around $185,200), and join an approved financial market self-regulatory organization before offering cryptocurrency trading services.
Regulatory Expansion Continues Across Russia’s Digital Asset Sector
Russia will continue banning cryptocurrency payments for domestic goods and services while permitting cross-border crypto settlements for international trade. Authorities first introduced cross-border cryptocurrency transactions during 2024 to support foreign trade following Western sanctions. The new legislation takes effect on September 1, 2026, while rules governing cryptocurrency issuance and circulation begin on September 1, 2027. Existing exchanges have until March 1, 2027, to meet the new compliance requirements.
The law follows approval by the State Duma last month after its first parliamentary reading in April. It builds on draft regulations issued by the Bank of Russia. Separately, the government recently banned cryptocurrency mining. Also, participation in mining pools in Moscow, the surrounding Moscow region. And parts of the Kursk region from August 15 through 2032, strengthening oversight of the digital asset sector.
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