Sberbank Targets 2026 Launch for Crypto Trading and Custody Services in Russia

Russia's largest financial institution, Sberbank, has set its sights on launching cryptocurrency trading capabilities and digital custody services by December 1, 2026.

This move is part of Russia's broader effort to establish comprehensive oversight of crypto trading, storage, and transaction settlement. The country's digital asset regulatory structure becomes operational on September 1, 2026, with licensing deadlines set for July 2027.

Retail investors will be required to complete education requirements and face annual purchase caps of 300,000 rubles. Only digital assets meeting strict liquidity and capitalization criteria will be available for public exchange, with the goal of maintaining stability in the market.