Michaela
The Moscow Exchange and St. Petersburg Exchange have endorsed the Bank of Russia’s proposed cryptocurrency regulations and confirmed they are prepared to begin crypto trading once the framework is finalized, expected by mid-2026.
Key Points
- Moscow and St. Petersburg Exchanges are ready to launch crypto trading once regulations take effect in mid-2026.
- Russia’s experimental legal framework focuses on highly qualified investors for initial crypto market access.
- The exchanges are proactively developing infrastructure and protocols to integrate crypto safely into the financial system.
Local reports indicate that the Bank of Russia unveiled a proposed framework for regulating cryptocurrencies in the domestic market on Tuesday, aiming to establish a comprehensive legislative structure by July 2026.
“The Moscow Exchange is actively working on solutions to service the cryptocurrency market and plans to launch their circulation as soon as the appropriate regulations are in place,” the exchange said in a statement. “We are ready to begin cryptocurrency trading after the relevant legal changes are made. SPB Exchange has the necessary technological infrastructure for trading and settlements,” it added.
The St. Petersburg Exchange also expressed its backing for the Central Bank’s initiatives to ensure transparency and security in crypto trading and confirmed its readiness to collaborate on building the necessary infrastructure for a regulated market.
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Momentum for cryptocurrency regulation in Russia accelerated in mid-2024, when the Ministry of Finance introduced proposals permitting qualified investors to trade digital assets on licensed exchanges.
In April, Russia’s Finance Ministry and Central Bank unveiled plans to launch a crypto exchange for qualified investors under an experimental legal framework. Finance Minister Anton Siluanov stated the initiative aims to “legalize crypto assets and bring crypto operations out of the shadows.”
Earlier in March, the Central Bank proposed allowing cryptocurrency transactions within the experimental legal regime, targeting a new class of participants, highly qualified investors, defined as individuals holding over 100 million rubles in securities and deposits or earning more than 50 million rubles annually.
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The readiness of the Moscow Exchange and St. Petersburg Exchange to engage in regulated crypto trading signals a broader shift in Russia’s financial landscape. Their proactive stance demonstrates not only a commitment to innovation but also an acknowledgment of growing investor interest in digital assets.
By preparing infrastructure, compliance measures, and trading protocols in advance, these exchanges position themselves to lead in a market that balances regulatory oversight with modern financial tools. As the mid-2026 regulatory deadline approaches, their collaboration with authorities and industry stakeholders will likely shape how cryptocurrencies are integrated into Russia’s mainstream financial ecosystem, setting a model for other markets.
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MICHAELA
Michaela is a news writer focused on cryptocurrency and blockchain topics. She prioritizes rigorous research and accuracy to uncover interesting angles and ensure engaging reporting. A lifelong book lover, she applies her passion for reading to deeply explore the constantly evolving crypto world.
