Sberbank Sets December Deadline for Crypto Trading Infrastructure Launch

Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, is gearing up to launch its crypto trading infrastructure and digital depository by December 1, 2026. The move is aimed at facilitating regulated crypto trading, custody, and settlement services, as well as registering clients' rights to cryptocurrencies in accordance with new market regulations.

According to Alexander Vedyakhin, first deputy chairman at Sberbank, the platform will conduct transactions using active wallets, allowing for the movement of funds between the banking system and blockchain wallet addresses. The bank has not named the list of cryptocurrencies to be made available for trade or revealed details on trading fees, requirements for traders, and other specifics.

The launch is in compliance with Russia's cryptocurrency activities framework, which will come into effect on September 1, 2026. Market participants have until July 1, 2027, to obtain licenses and adapt their operations to the new framework. Both qualified and non-qualified investors will be allowed to trade in cryptocurrencies through licensed intermediaries.