Rich by Coin

Russian exchanges are ready to introduce cryptocurrency trading, pending new regulations, opening opportunities for retail investors. The Moscow Exchange and the St. Petersburg Exchange have announced their plans to offer cryptocurrency trading, contingent on the establishment of a new legal framework. This anticipation signals a long-awaited progression for cryptocurrencies in Russia, an intention that these exchanges have expressed for years.

These exchanges are prepared and have developed the necessary systems for trading, clearing, and custody of crypto assets. Brokers have begun testing various crypto-related products, showcasing a readiness to operate in this expanding market.

Under the upcoming regulatory framework, retail investors are expected to face limitations, being able to transact only up to 300,000 rubles annually on selected highly liquid tokens using registered intermediaries. Professional investors, however, will not face transaction caps but cannot purchase anonymous cryptocurrencies. This framework classifies crypto assets as high-risk and prohibits their use for domestic payments, reflecting cautious but progressive regulatory intentions. The proposed legislation aims for completion by July 1, 2026, featuring enforcement mechanisms targeted specifically at addressing illegal activities by intermediaries come July 1, 2027.

Brokers and asset managers in Russia are actively testing custody and accounting systems that will support an array of offerings from spot crypto and stablecoins to various investment strategies. Russian exchanges are prepared to launch cryptocurrency trading once a new regulatory framework is enacted, signaling a meaningful step for the sector. The Moscow Exchange and the St. Petersburg Exchange have stated they will offer crypto trading once the law is in place. They have developed the necessary systems for trading, clearing, and custody of crypto assets, and brokers are testing various crypto-related products to ensure readiness.

Under the proposed rules, retail investors would be limited to 300,000 rubles per year for selected highly liquid tokens via registered intermediaries, while professional investors would face no caps but could not purchase anonymous cryptocurrencies. The framework classifies assets as high risk and prohibits their use for domestic payments. Legislation aims for completion by July 1, 2026, with enforcement mechanisms for intermediaries beginning July 1, 2027. Brokers and asset managers are testing custody and accounting systems to support spot crypto, stablecoins, and related investment strategies.