Sberbank Sets December Deadline for Russia's First Regulated Crypto Trading Launch

Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, has set a deadline of December 1 to launch its cryptocurrency trading infrastructure and digital depository. The new system will support regulated crypto trading, custody, and settlement for eligible customers in Russia.

The move follows the approval of new rules covering crypto exchanges, brokers, banks, and digital depositories by September 1, 2026. Companies will have until July 1, 2027, to secure licenses and bring their systems into compliance.

Under the planned structure, customers could hold recorded crypto rights inside Sberbank's system. The bank would then use its controlled wallets when customers deposit, withdraw or transfer assets to external addresses.