Bank of Russia Introduces Regulatory Framework for Crypto and DFA Markets

• The Bank of Russia proposes rules for crypto investment in Russia.
• Unqualified investors face limits and testing for cryptocurrency purchases.
• Qualified investors gain wider access with the risk understanding requirement.
• New regulation covers DFAs and foreign cryptocurrency transactions abroad.

The Bank of Russia has drafted a new framework for regulating cryptocurrencies. Both qualified and non-qualified investors will have the opportunity to acquire crypto assets. Each investor type will follow its own rules. The proposals have been sent to the government for review.

The bank continues to classify cryptocurrencies as high-risk instruments. They are not issued or guaranteed by any government. Their values are highly volatile and exposed to sanctions risks. Investors must understand that they may lose their funds entirely.

Digital currencies and stablecoins are recognized as monetary assets under the new concept. They can be bought and sold but cannot be used for domestic payments. This distinction sets the stage for legal trading while protecting the domestic financial system.

Also Read: Central Bank of Russia Reports Bitcoin Leads Investment Returns in 2025

New Crypto Rules Define Investor Access and Limits

The unqualified investors can only invest in the most liquid cryptocurrencies. Investment criteria have been established through laws. They have to undergo testing before investing. Annual transaction limits cannot exceed 300,000 rubles for each person using an intermediary.

Qualified investors have fewer restrictions. They can purchase any cryptocurrency except anonymous ones that hide transaction data. Furthermore, they must pass a test on risk awareness. There are no restrictions on the trade volumes of qualified investors.

Transactions involving cryptocurrencies will be conducted through the existing infrastructure. Exchanges, brokers, and trustees will be allowed to maintain their current licenses. It is only the specialized depositories and exchangers that will be required to comply with the newly imposed requirements.

Residents can also obtain cryptocurrencies outside of their countries of residence. The money should hail from overseas accounts, and notification of the tax service is required in cases where crypto has been previously purchased.

Russia Aligns DFA and Crypto Rules for Investor Access

The regulation concept extends to the digital financial asset market as well. DFAs and other digital rights in Russia are permitted to freely circulate on open networks. This means that companies can now appeal to foreign investment, and their clients may purchase DFAs on terms and conditions similar to those for cryptocurrencies.

The draft law states that the Bank of Russia intends to work out the whole legal framework for cryptocurrencies no later than July 1, 2026. Starting from July 1, 2027, the liability for illegal market actions will be imposed on intermediaries. This measure will be the same as for illegal banks. The approach aims to ensure a regulated, transparent, and accountable cryptocurrency market.

Also Read: Russia’s Largest Bank Launches Structured Bond Linked to Bitcoin and USD-RUB