Russia Permits Banks to Offer Crypto-Linked Products to Qualified Investors

Russia’s central bank has authorized licensed financial institutions to provide qualified investors with crypto-linked derivatives and securities. These products, designed to track digital asset prices without delivering underlying coins, mark a cautious step toward regulated crypto exposure.

The Bank of Russia emphasized strict risk controls—requiring full capital coverage and individual exposure limits. A formal regulatory framework addressing crypto volatility is expected later this year. The central bank maintained its opposition to retail crypto trading, explicitly warning against direct purchases.

Separately, policymakers are reviewing a proposed three-year sandbox for limited crypto transactions. State-owned Sberbank has joined approved exchanges under the experimental regime, signaling institutional interest despite regulatory constraints.