Russia Implements Stricter Crypto Regulation Framework

The Russian government has taken a significant step in regulating the country's cryptocurrency market. A package of draft bills aimed at formalizing crypto markets by routing domestic trading through licensed intermediaries has been approved.

Under the new framework, transactions involving digital currency without regulated intermediaries are prohibited. Non-qualified investors will be restricted to purchasing only the most liquid digital currencies, as defined by the Bank of Russia, and must pass a qualification test before participating.

The proposal imposes strict limits on retail access, with annual investment caps set at 300,000 rubles ($3,700) per individual through a single intermediary. This effectively constrains retail exposure while steering participation toward approved assets and regulated channels.