Russia Cracks Down on Crypto, Sets Limits for Retail Investors
Russia has taken a significant step towards regulating its cryptocurrency market with the signing of the 'Digital Currency and Digital Rights Law' by President Putin on August 6, 2026. This law establishes a comprehensive operational framework for cryptocurrency exchanges, digital asset treasuries, and market participants, clarifying classification and access standards for qualified and retail investors.
The law retains a core prohibition: it is strictly forbidden to use digital currency and digital rights as a means of payment or legal tender within Russia. Retail investors are subject to an annual purchase limit of 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,700) through a single intermediary, while qualified investors are not restricted by currency and amount limits but must pass a qualification test.
The law also introduces a transition period, allowing relevant entities to operate without formal registration until July 1, 2027. To be licensed, exchanges must have a minimum capital requirement of 15 million rubles (approximately $187,000).