VTB to Offer Direct Crypto Trading Through Brokerage Accounts Next Year
VTB announced plans to enable investors to trade cryptocurrencies directly through its brokerage accounts beginning next year. The bank currently provides client exposure to digital assets via derivatives, but the move to direct trading marks a notable expansion of services from one of Russia’s largest financial institutions. The decision could widen retail access and boost market liquidity in a market where traditional banks have largely limited crypto involvement to structured products. For clients it means simpler custody and execution options; for the broader market it signals growing institutional acceptance. The development may also spur competitive responses from other Russian brokers as the financial sector’s approach to digital assets continues to evolve.