Russian authorities are preparing legislation to allow non-qualified retail investors limited access to crypto trading and certain cross-border uses, signaling a shift in policy toward wider participation.
Authorities in Russia’s Far East have dismantled a mobile crypto-mining operation that consumed electricity worth millions of rubles. The setup was reportedly used to generate digital currency while bypassing regular power accounts.
Western sanctions tied to Russia led to a bond freeze that cut Telegram off from $500 million in funding, raising immediate questions about the company’s financing and project plans. The development underscores broader market risk from sanctions on crypto-adjacent firms.
Escalating Russia–Ukraine tensions and Russia's vow to retaliate are increasing downside risk for crypto, raising the prospect of renewed volatility and sell-offs. Traders and wallets are likely to brace for liquidity shifts and wider price swings.
Russian financial regulators signaled that ordinary citizens will be permitted to invest in cryptocurrencies under new rules, though limits are expected. The announcement marks a cautious shift toward regulated retail access as authorities finalize oversight and safeguards.
On Dec. 30, 2025 the Central Bank of Russia revised its rules for investing in Russian digital financial assets (DFAs), updating the regulatory framework that governs DFA transactions and investor access. The move affects how market participants, platforms and investors interact with Russia-based digital assets.
Local Russian media report seven employees at PAO Rosseti Moscow Region were arrested on allegations they facilitated illegal cryptocurrency mining operations, raising concerns about grid security and regulatory scrutiny.
Sberbank has issued a pilot loan to a Russian miner secured by cryptocurrency collateral, marking a first for the bank and the country. The move is being framed as an early step toward closer integration of digital assets with traditional finance.
Sberbank may start offering loans secured by cryptocurrency after Russia’s central bank issued a regulatory roadmap for digital asset transactions. The plan, disclosed by a senior bank executive, could broaden institutional crypto services while raising questions about risk controls and compliance.
Yakutia is considering deploying cryptocurrency mining rigs at gas wells operated jointly with diamond producer Alrosa to monetize stranded or flared gas and boost regional revenue. The plan is still under review by regional authorities.