Russia Deregulates Crypto Trading While Maintaining Sanctions-Evasion Off-Ramp

Russia has introduced a comprehensive framework for crypto regulation, effective September 1, 2026. Federal Law 282-FZ brought bitcoin, ether, and USDT into a regulated market under the Bank of Russia's supervision.

The digital ruble was also launched on the same day, becoming mandatory for Russia's 12 systemically important banks and large retailers with annual revenue above 120 million rubles. The full rollout to all banks is expected by September 2028.

SberCIB Investment Research projects that regulated crypto trading volume will reach 4 trillion rubles ($46.4 billion) in the first year, accounting for roughly 20% of Russia's estimated 18 trillion ruble annual crypto market.