- Russia’s Central Bank proposes a 3-year crypto trading experiment for high-net-worth individuals to increase market transparency.
- Despite delays in the digital ruble, Russia’s crypto trading experiment aims to regulate crypto exposure for qualified investors.
Russia’s Central Bank has proposed allowing approved individuals to participate in a three-year experimental crypto-trading program. This new policy, targeting experienced investors with financial resources, seeks to establish a regulated structure for crypto trading while limiting participation to high-net-worth individuals.
The proposal defines qualified investors as individuals with over 100 million rubles ($11.5 million) in stock investments and deposits or those who earned at least 50 million rubles in income in the previous year. This agenda addresses investors capable of handling greater financial risks associated with crypto trading.
In addition to individual investors, companies that meet the legal requirements will also be eligible to participate. The central bank is working on regulatory guidelines for financial institutions interested in joining the experimental program.
Increased Transparency and Service Standards
The primary goal of the approach is to increase market transparency. It also aims to introduce regulatory standards for crypto service providers and expand investment opportunities for high-net-worth individuals.
However, the Central Bank of Russia has emphasized that cryptocurrencies will not be recognized as legal payments, limiting settlements to authorized participants only.
Additionally, non-compliance will result in penalties. This approach aligns with Russia’s overall stance on cryptocurrencies, despite the country exploring using digital assets in international trade as a potential tool to bypass Western sanctions.
Shift in Russia’s Crypto Stance
This trial signals a shift in Russia’s regulatory approach to cryptocurrencies. Just a few years ago, President Vladimir Putin signed a law that banned using cryptocurrencies for payments. The central bank’s proposal signals a potential softening of that stance. However, it remains focused on high-level investors and does not suggest a wider adoption of digital assets for general use.
The proposal also comes at a time when Russia is working with digital currencies in other areas. The Russian Finance Ministry has been exploring using digital currencies in foreign trade transactions.
Delayed Rollout of Digital Ruble
In related news, the Central Bank of Russia recently delayed the launch of its digital currency. Originally scheduled for a nationwide rollout in July 2025, the implementation of Russia’s central bank digital currency (CBDC) has been postponed.
Central Bank Governor Elvira Nabiullina explained that further consultation with commercial banks and a closer look at the economic model were necessary before proceeding with the digital ruble.
JUST IN: 🇷🇺 Russia's Central Bank to allow limited crypto purchases for investors. pic.twitter.com/EqvFmDHL9E
— BRICS News (@BRICSinfo) March 12, 2025
Additionally, Andrey Bershadsky, CEO of the asset management firm Pervaya, has proposed offering exposure to cryptocurrencies through mutual funds. Bershadsky believes that professional asset managers could reduce investors’ risks by providing structured access to the crypto market. He also raised the importance of regulated platforms for investors who wish to engage in cryptocurrency trading.
The Bank of Russia’s proposed crypto trading experiment could affect the country’s financial landscape. By introducing a regulated platform for select investors, Russia aims to enhance the transparency of its crypto market while maintaining strict controls on the financial system.
