Russia's Digital Ruble Launches Nationwide as Cryptocurrency Use Remains Restricted

Russia's central bank is launching its digital ruble nationwide on September 1, 2026. The new currency will complement cash and conventional bank money, but using it remains voluntary for individuals.

The biggest banks in Russia will be required to provide access to digital ruble transactions from the same date, while merchants earning over 120 million rubles a year must accept digital ruble payments by September 1. Smaller businesses will gradually come on board over the next few years, with full participation expected by 2028.

Major companies such as MTS and Rostelecom are already preparing to support digital ruble payments from September 1, allowing customers to choose the currency at checkout and authorize payments through their bank's app or website.