Russia Introduces Comprehensive Cryptocurrency Law with Regulated Trading

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a landmark cryptocurrency law that establishes Russia's first comprehensive regulatory framework for digital asset trading.

The new legislation, which allows regulated cryptocurrency trading to begin on September 1, creates a controlled environment where approved digital assets can be traded through licensed platforms under the supervision of Russia's central bank.

Only selected cryptocurrencies considered sufficiently liquid and suitable for regulated markets will be approved for trading. Among the assets expected to qualify are major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, the world's largest stablecoin by market capitalization.

The new law does not recognize cryptocurrencies as legal payment methods, meaning digital assets can be traded as investment instruments but cannot replace traditional currencies for everyday transactions.