Sberbank Builds Digital Depository for Regulated Crypto Trading

Russia's largest bank, Sberbank, is building a digital depository to support regulated crypto trading by December 1st. This infrastructure will track clients' rights and account for transactions outside the main blockchain.

The new system aims to standardize how balances and client entitlements are managed within regulated channels, potentially reducing reliance on public-chain activity for day-to-day internal movement and bookkeeping.

Russia has been working towards its first comprehensive crypto market framework, with a law regulating digital-asset activity set to take effect in 2026. The framework would grant the Bank of Russia broad oversight, including deciding which crypto assets may be offered through licensed intermediaries.