Haciyev Reşit 
Russia is preparing for another major policy shift in its cryptocurrency regulation. As the country increasingly turns to digital assets to bypass Western sanctions following the start of the war in Ukraine, the Central Bank of Russia and the Ministry of Finance have launched a joint initiative to expand the use of digital assets. This move marks a notable softening of Russia’s long-standing strict and restrictive crypto stance.
Russia Plans to Ease Access to Crypto
Under current regulations, access to cryptocurrencies in Russia has largely been limited to accredited investors only. However, with the new initiative, authorities aim to remove this restriction and open crypto access to a much broader population. Sources say that the Central Bank’s long-held “tight control” approach is starting to give way to a more flexible and market-friendly stance. In recent months, the Central Bank has already taken several positive steps in the crypto space, including:
- Allowing crypto-based derivatives for professional investors
- Encouraging digital asset usage within certain limits
The new regulatory package is expected to expand these measures even further.
The “Qualified Investor” Requirement May Be Removed
One of the most significant elements of the joint proposal is removing the requirement to be a “highly qualified investor” in order to make crypto investments. Eliminating this condition would dramatically increase accessibility for millions of retail investors in Russia, expanding the market to a much wider user base.
Analysts say the goal is twofold:
- Grow the domestic crypto ecosystem
- Strengthen alternative payment and investment channels in an economy under sanctions
This shift indicates a more pragmatic approach by Russia toward digital assets.
Market analysts commented:
“Russia loosening a system that restricted crypto to professionals is a major turning point in its digital finance policy. Broad public access will increase liquidity and strengthen alternative financial channels amid sanctions.”
Conclusion
The new crypto initiative launched by the Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance moves Russia closer to integrating digital assets into its mainstream financial system. Reducing access barriers could increase investor participation and provide Russia with greater flexibility in the face of international financial constraints..
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