Regulated Russia Crypto Market Takes Shape
Russia is paving the way for a regulated cryptocurrency market that could reach USD 46.4 billion in its first year, according to Sberbank's estimates.
The new legislation takes effect on September 1, 2026, with some provisions related to digital asset issuance and circulation delayed until September 2027.
Sberbank is already preparing financial products around cryptocurrency, including accepting Bitcoin for certain crypto-backed lending arrangements. The lender plans to add Ether and Tether's USDT once regulators approve them for public trading.
This could turn cryptocurrency from a speculative asset into collateral within conventional banking.
The regulations may boost the adoption of major assets like Bitcoin and Ether, especially since Russian investors currently accessing these cryptocurrencies through offshore platforms may migrate toward domestic exchanges if regulation improves custody, settlement, and banking access.