The Bank of Russia has submitted proposals to the government to establish a regulated framework for cryptocurrency investments under a three-year experimental legal regime (ELR), as announced on March 12, 2025, following directives from the Russian president.
This initiative would allow a limited group of “particularly qualified” investors to buy and sell digital currencies, aiming to enhance market transparency, set service standards, and expand investment opportunities for experienced individuals. Under the proposal, only investors with securities and deposits exceeding 100 million rubles (approximately $1.1 million USD) or an annual income above 50 million rubles (about $550,000 USD) would qualify, alongside corporate-qualified investors and financial institutions meeting regulatory standards.
The central bank will impose specific risk-based requirements on financial institutions engaging in crypto investments, ensuring a cautious approach. Stay informed on global crypto regulations with Crypto Market Insights on news.thecoininfo.com, and explore in-depth analysis on The Coin Info Hub at thecoininfo.com.
The Bank of Russia emphasizes that private cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and lack jurisdictional backing, placing the full risk of potential losses on investors. Despite this, the central bank continues to prohibit cryptocurrencies as a means of payment within Russia, proposing bans on crypto transactions between residents outside the ELR, with penalties for violations.
However, qualified investors would have access to derivatives, securities, and digital financial assets tied to crypto value, provided they do not involve direct delivery of crypto assets, balancing innovation with risk management. This cautious stance reflects Russia’s broader approach to digital assets, restricting their use for payments while exploring regulated investment and cross-border transaction frameworks to counter Western sanctions and integrate crypto into its financial system.
