According to reports from the Russian state news agency Interfax, the Central Bank of Russia and the Ministry of Finance plan to launch a regulated cryptocurrency exchange exclusively for "qualified investors."
The platform will operate under the country's Experimental Legal Regime (ELR), which allows testing of certain financial innovations in a controlled environment. This initiative aims to create a more transparent and standardized framework for crypto activities.
Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov stated: "This will legalize crypto assets and bring operations out of the shadows." He added that the platform would not function within Russia's domestic financial system but operate within the ELR framework.
Eligibility Criteria for Investors
The central bank's proposal defines "qualified investors" as individuals who meet one of the following criteria:
- Hold securities and deposits exceeding 100 million rubles (~$1.2 million).
- Have an annual income exceeding 50 million rubles (~$600,000).
Context and Motivations
This move comes as Russian authorities continue exploring the role of cryptocurrencies in bypassing international sanctions. Despite a 2022 law banning domestic crypto payments, officials increasingly acknowledge digital assets' utility in cross-border trade. Reports indicate that Russian oil companies have used Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) via intermediaries to settle transactions with buyers in China and India.
👉 How Russia leverages crypto for international trade
Regulatory Objectives
The new exchange is part of broader efforts to:
- Establish clearer standards for crypto services.
- Enhance market oversight.
- Create investment opportunities for risk-tolerant individuals.
Regulators hope this will improve market transparency and set benchmarks for service providers. The central bank also acknowledges volatility risks, emphasizing that investors must be aware of potential losses.
Additional Provisions
Outside the pilot framework, qualified investors may still trade:
- Crypto-related derivatives.
- Securities linked to digital assets.
Crackdown on Illegal Activities
Authorities have intensified efforts to curb illicit crypto operations, including:
- 130 cases of illegal mining and electricity theft.
- 40+ criminal investigations underway, with suspects facing imprisonment.
👉 Russia's stance on unauthorized crypto activities
FAQ
Q: Who qualifies as a "high-net-worth investor" under Russia's new rules?
A: Individuals with securities/deposits exceeding 100 million rubles or annual income over 50 million rubles.
Q: Will the exchange operate under Russian financial laws?
A: No, it will function within the Experimental Legal Regime (ELR), separate from domestic systems.
Q: Can investors still access crypto derivatives?
A: Yes, outside the pilot program, derivatives and asset-linked securities remain available to qualified investors.
Q: Why is Russia tightening crypto regulations now?
A: To combat illegal mining, enhance transparency, and leverage digital assets for international trade amid sanctions.
Q: How has crypto been used in Russian oil trades?
A: Reports suggest BTC and ETH were used to settle transactions with Asian buyers via intermediaries.