Sberbank Expands Crypto-Backed Lending Services
Sberbank, which previously issued Russia’s first bank-backed crypto loan, has announced plans to scale up lending that accepts digital assets as collateral. The initiative would extend beyond a pilot stage and aims to formalize crypto as an eligible collateral class within the bank’s credit product lineup, signaling greater institutional acceptance of digital assets in traditional finance.
The move could unlock liquidity for crypto holders and create new revenue streams for Sberbank, while setting a precedent for regulated, bank-led crypto credit in Russia. Its success will hinge on robust valuation methods, collateral management and coordination with regulators; market participants should watch for announcements on eligible assets, loan-to-value rules and risk controls as the program rolls out.