Putin Signs Landmark Crypto Law, Opening Regulated Retail Trading In Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law creating a formal regulatory framework for cryptocurrency trading, according to state news agency TASS. The law covers exchanges, custodians, brokers, clearing houses and investors, while keeping the existing ban on using crypto to pay for goods and services inside Russia.

Retail Investors Face Annual Purchase Limits

Retail investors can buy the most liquid cryptocurrencies, capped at 300,000 rubles, about $3,700, per year through each intermediary. Qualified investors face no such limit but must pass “special suitability testing,” and retail investors can earn qualified status based on their trading history. Exchanges must join a special registry, hold minimum equity of 15 million rubles, roughly $185,200, and belong to a self-regulatory organization.

Cross-Border Trade Still Allowed

While domestic crypto payments remain banned, cross-border settlements for foreign trade contracts stay permitted, continuing a practice Russia adopted in 2024 to work around Western sanctions.

Law Takes Effect In September

The legislation goes into force September 1, 2026, with certain provisions on crypto asset issuance starting September 1, 2027, and a grace period for existing exchanges until March 2027. The move follows the Bank of Russia’s recent draft rules for organized crypto trading, even as authorities continue banning crypto mining in Moscow and nearby regions through 2032.