Duma Crypto Bill Introduces Licensing and Investor Restrictions in Russia

Russia moves to regulate crypto with licensing, investor caps, and cross-border use while restricting domestic payments.

Russia is moving closer to formal crypto regulation as lawmakers advance a new bill through parliament. Early approval signals a structured approach to overseeing digital asset activity. Authorities aim to balance innovation with tighter control over market access. Cross-border usage also appears central to the proposal.

Duma Passes First Reading of Bill Introducing Investor Limits and Oversight

Russia’s State Duma has passed a cryptocurrency bill in its first reading, outlining rules for market participants. According to TASS, the legislation sets a regulatory foundation for exchanges, brokers, and financial institutions operating in the sector.

Under the proposal, the Bank of Russia would act as the primary regulator. It would license participants and oversee crypto-related activities across the country. Entities already operating within the central bank’s experimental legal regime would gain simplified access to the new framework.

Banks and brokers seeking entry into crypto markets would also benefit from a streamlined process. The bill introduces tiered access for investors, dividing them into qualified and non-qualified categories. Retail participants face limits: purchases are capped at 300,000 rubles, roughly $3,900. Professional investors would not be subject to these restrictions.

New Proposal Allows Crypto for International Trade Amid Sanctions

Legal classification forms a key part of the proposal. Cryptocurrency would be treated as property, granting holders legal protection in disputes such as bankruptcy or divorce. At the same time, domestic use of crypto for payments remains prohibited, reinforcing the ruble’s status as the sole legal tender.

Foreign trade provisions stand out as a major component. Companies would be allowed to use cryptocurrency for cross-border settlements. Lawmakers argue this could help businesses transact internationally despite ongoing sanctions.

Kaplan Panesh, deputy chairman of the budget and taxes committee, stated that the framework strengthens legal clarity while maintaining monetary control.

Further approval is still required. The bill must pass second and third readings before moving to the Federation Council and the president. If adopted, implementation is expected by July 1, 2026.

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