Russia Sets $3,800 Retail Crypto Trading Cap in Newly Passed Law

Russia has set a retail trading cap of $3,800 per year for non-qualified investors in its newly passed crypto law. The framework allows ordinary traders access to only the most liquid cryptocurrencies after passing a knowledge test and caps total purchases at 300,000 rubles (approximately $3,800) annually.

The State Duma approved Bill No. 1194918-8 covering 'digital currency' and 'digital rights' on July 21, 2026. The main provisions will take effect on September 1, 2026, with a transition period for market participants running until July 1, 2027.

Retail traders must route their trades through a single licensed intermediary to track the annual cap and suitability. This model changes the typical crypto flow, centralizing the user relationship to keep the cap enforceable. Market depth will depend on how many intermediaries get licensed and how they integrate external liquidity safely.