Putin Signs Russian Crypto Law with Tough Retail Investor Limits

Russian President Putin signed the 'Digital Currency and Digital Rights Law' on August 6, 2026. This law establishes a framework for cryptocurrency exchanges, digital asset treasuries, and market participants.

The law sets a minimum capital threshold of 15 million rubles (approximately $187,000) for exchanges to operate. A one-year transition period is in place until July 1, 2027, allowing entities to continue operating without formal registration before completing the necessary steps.

Retail investors are subject to annual purchase limits of 300,000 rubles ($3,700), while qualified investors have no restrictions on currency and amount. However, both types must pass a qualification test or demonstrate trading records in the cryptocurrency market to obtain qualified investor status.