Russia's Digital Ruble Launches Next Year with Broad Access

The Bank of Russia is preparing to launch its digital ruble, a new form of the Russian currency that will operate through a separate Central Bank platform.

The digital ruble is not a cryptocurrency or money on a bank card, but a third option alongside cash and non-cash money. It will be used for transactions on the Bank of Russia's platform, with commercial banks acting as access channels for clients.

As of July 2026, only about 30 banks participating in the pilot project can use the digital ruble. However, full access is expected from September 1, 2028, when all credit organizations will be able to use it.

The digital ruble differs from money on a card as it's not just a record in a commercial bank's account but tokens created by the Central Bank. It's closer to cash, only in an electronic environment.