The Russian Central Bank proposes "Legalization of Crypto Trading"! Aiming to complete legislation by 2026

The Russian Central Bank on Tuesday unveiled a “Cryptocurrency Market Regulation Proposal,” aiming to allow ordinary retail investors and professional investors to participate in cryptocurrency trading legally, under strict risk controls. According to official statements, the relevant legislative amendments have been submitted to the Russian government for review, with the goal of completing legislation by July 2026.

Despite a loosening of regulatory stance, the Russian Central Bank still regards cryptocurrencies as high-risk instruments and emphasizes in its statement that cryptocurrencies are not issued or guaranteed by any jurisdiction, are highly volatile, and carry sanctions risks.

The Russian Central Bank reminds investors that before purchasing cryptocurrencies, they must clearly understand that any potential losses must be borne by themselves. The establishment of a regulatory system does not equate to investment protection.

According to the regulatory proposal, digital currencies and stablecoins will be classified as “monetary assets,” allowing legal buying, selling, and investing, but explicitly prohibiting their use as a payment tool within Russia.

Regarding investment qualifications and limits, the Russian Central Bank adopts a clear tiered system:

• General Retail Investors: Can only invest in mainstream cryptocurrencies designated as “high liquidity” by law, and must pass a risk assessment first; the annual investment limit per person through a single intermediary is 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,300).
• Professional Investors: Can invest in any cryptocurrencies except anonymous coins, with no trading amount limits, but must also pass a risk awareness test.

In practical terms, cryptocurrency trading can be conducted through existing financial infrastructure. Exchanges, brokerages, and trust (asset management) institutions holding current financial licenses can legally provide crypto asset-related services.

As for crypto custody institutions and exchanges, the Russian Central Bank will establish additional regulatory requirements to strengthen cybersecurity, asset segregation, and compliance responsibilities.

Compared to past strict restrictions, the new regulation proposal relaxes cross-border transfer controls. In the future, Russian residents will be able to purchase cryptocurrencies using overseas accounts or transfer cryptocurrencies abroad through Russian intermediaries, but all related transactions must be reported to tax authorities in accordance with the law.

The Russian Central Bank states that the goal is to complete all necessary legislative amendments and establish a basic legal framework by July 1, 2026; starting July 1, 2027, any institutions engaged in unlicensed cryptocurrency exchange, custody, or intermediary activities will face legal liabilities.

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