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Sberbank intends to offer cryptocurrency trading services once regulatory frameworks and organized exchange operations are established, according to Ruslan Vesterovsky, Senior Vice President and Head of Wealth Management, speaking at a Moscow Exchange forum, as reported by Russia’s TASS.
The Bank of Russia views digital currencies as instruments carrying substantial risk within its current policy guidelines.
In December 2025, the Bank of Russia unveiled a blueprint for domestic cryptocurrency regulation that permits both qualified and non-qualified investors to acquire crypto assets. This concept designates digital currencies and stablecoins as permissible financial assets for transaction, though their use for domestic payments remains forbidden.
Under the proposed rules, individuals without qualified investor status may gain access to highly liquid cryptocurrencies, provided they pass an assessment and adhere to an annual spending cap of 300,000 rubles, channeled through a single service provider.
Sberbank has indicated its readiness to grant clients access to these markets upon the enactment of regulations and the commencement of exchange trading, working in conjunction with other industry players and supervisory bodies.
During 2025, Sberbank saw a significant increase in its digital financial asset issuances, reaching 408 billion rubles, a figure substantially higher than the preceding year and demonstrating robust expansion from 2023 levels.
The bank facilitated a pilot crypto-collateralized loan for Intelion Data in December 2025, with mined bitcoin serving as security, utilizing its proprietary custody system for safekeeping the collateral.
Government officials anticipate the finalization of legislation concerning digital assets by July 1, 2026.
Russia’s legislative proposal for cryptocurrencies
Earlier today, Russia’s State Duma moved forward with a comprehensive cryptocurrency regulation bill, passing its first reading with 327 out of 340 deputies in favor. The legislation, put forth by the Russian government, aims to establish a thorough structure for the issuance, trading, and safeguarding of digital currencies, overseen by licensed entities under the Bank of Russia’s supervision.
The bill categorizes cryptocurrency as property, enabling its consideration in legal proceedings, while upholding a prohibition on domestic payments but allowing international transactions.
Furthermore, the proposed law introduces distinct investor categories, imposes stricter oversight on peer-to-peer activities, mandates a regulated custody framework, and requires mining operations to utilize domestic infrastructure.
Lawmakers are still required to approve two more readings, with some officials advocating for amendments due to apprehensions regarding market limitations and investor protections.
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Information compiled from materials : bitcoinmagazine.com