Putin Signs Russia's First Crypto Law, Setting Stage for Industry Regulation

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law regulating cryptocurrencies in Russia, giving the country's crypto industry a formal framework for digital currencies and rights.

The legislation sets rules for exchanges, digital depositories, and market participants, requiring exchange providers to hold minimum equity of $187,339. It also introduces a 300,000 ruble annual cap on purchases for retail investors not classified as qualified.

The law's core provisions take effect September 1, 2026, but technical rules covering digital financial assets will not apply until September 1, 2027. Existing exchange operators have a transitional period running to March 1, 2027, to bring their operations into compliance.