Russia opens regulated crypto trading as new law takes effect
Sep 01, 2026
Russia’s first comprehensive legal framework for cryptocurrency trading, custody, and cross-border settlements has taken effect on Sept. 1, opening regulated market access to retail and qualified investors under Bank of Russia supervision.
Russia crypto law opens regulated trading from Sept. 1
President Vladimir Putin signed the legislation on Aug. 4 after the State Duma passed the framework in its second and third readings in July. The law covers cryptocurrency exchanges, digital depositories, brokers, management companies, organized trading platforms and other financial institutions involved in digital asset transactions.
Crypto exchanges and custodians enter a regulated system
The law creates dedicated roles for cryptocurrency exchanges and digital depositories, bringing trading and custody services under a formal regulatory structure.
Cross-border crypto settlements receive a legal route
The framework keeps Russia’s prohibition on cryptocurrency payments for ordinary goods and services inside the country, meaning digital currencies do not become legal payment instruments for domestic commerce.
During the bill’s passage, lawmakers removed a proposed requirement for cryptocurrency holders to disclose their wallet addresses. The revised version instead retained reporting requirements involving information such as balances and transaction volumes while introducing rules for certain transfers.
Some crypto rules will take effect later
Rules involving certain transfer restrictions and the operation of nonresident digital depositories are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2027. Technical provisions governing the issuance and circulation of digital financial assets, nominal holders and depositories are set to follow on Sept. 1, 2027.
