The Bank of Russia has finalized a regulatory framework governing digital assets transactions. With this framework, Russian exchanges are now allowed to launch regulated cryptocurrency trading starting November 22, 2026. For this, the exchanges must obtain approval from the central bank of Russia. The directive has been issued by Russia’s Ministry of Justice.
Under the new framework, the exchanges will be required to maintain detailed records of orders and transactions. Moreover, they will keep trading activity and calculate key market indicators. These indicators will include spot prices, weighted average prices, market prices, and closing prices. Exchanges must also submit trading data and transaction results to the Bank of Russia under reporting procedures.
Russia Introduces Trading Limits for Retail Crypto Investors
The framework is primarily built on the earlier regulatory measures designed to bring cryptocurrency activity under government supervision. A related Bank of Russia ordinance establishes different trading conditions for retail and qualified investors. That particular ordinance is set to take effect on November 17, 5 days before the exchange may begin offering crypto trading.
Under the new rules, non-qualified investors will be allowed to purchase only Bitcoin, Ether, and USDT. Their annual purchases will be capped at 300,000 rubles ($3,600 USD) per intermediary.
Retail investors must also pass a risk-awareness assessment before gaining access to cryptocurrency trading. Qualified investors, however, will not face the same asset restrictions or annual purchase limits.
Moscow Exchange and Major Banks Prepare for Crypto Trading
Several major Russian financial institutions are now preparing to provide regulated cryptocurrency market. The Moscow Exchange has also hinted that it is planning to offer crypto trading services around December 1.
Russian banks, including Sberbank and VTB, have already secured relevant registrations for digital asset trading and custody. November 22 marks the earliest possible start for organized crypto trading but the exchanges may take more time to complete the necessary regulatory approvals.
