Putin Signs Landmark Crypto Law
Russia has taken a major step in regulating its digital currency market after President Vladimir Putin signed a landmark law. The new legislation formalizes an already booming market, with Russia ranking as Europe's largest crypto market by transaction volume according to Chainalysis.
The new law allows Russians to buy and sell approved cryptocurrencies through licensed platforms supervised by the Central Bank from September 1, 2026. Retail investors will face stricter rules, including a basic knowledge test and limits on purchases. Professional investors will also have to pass the test but won't face investment limits.
Only the world's largest and most actively traded cryptocurrencies will be available on Russia's regulated market at first. Bitcoin, Ether (Ethereum), and the USDT stablecoin currently meet the requirements, while other cryptocurrencies may be approved in the future if they meet the criteria.