Putin Enacts Cryptocurrency Regulation Law With Implementation Set for 2026
Vladimir Putin has enacted comprehensive cryptocurrency legislation that will set regulatory standards for digital asset exchanges, custody services, and market participants, with primary regulations becoming operational in September 2026.
Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has officially enacted legislation that establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework governing cryptocurrency markets within the Russian Federation.
The Russian leader approved bill No. 1194918-8, which carries the title "On Digital Currencies and Digital Rights," on Tuesday, as confirmed by official documentation from the State Duma, which serves as Russia's lower parliamentary chamber. This new legislation sets forth regulatory guidelines for various cryptocurrency market entities, encompassing exchanges, brokerage firms, custodial service providers, and additional digital asset service platforms.
Under the provisions of this law, operators of cryptocurrency exchanges must satisfy specific regulatory criteria and become members of a self-regulatory organization within the financial market sector. Retail market participants face restrictions on purchasing only authorized crypto assets via registered intermediaries, subject to a yearly threshold of 300,000 rubles ($3,700) for each intermediary platform. Conversely, investors with qualified status will have the freedom to acquire any form of cryptocurrency without facing these limitations.
The primary sections of this legislation will become operational on Sept. 1, 2026, whereas certain provisions, specifically those governing digital depositories for non-residents, are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2027. Furthermore, the law preserves the existing prohibition on utilizing crypto assets as a payment method for purchasing goods and services within Russian territory.
The State Duma granted approval to this legislation following its final reading sessions in late July. Based on this law's framework, the Bank of Russia will assume supervisory authority over the regulated cryptocurrency marketplace, establish relevant regulatory guidelines, and make determinations regarding which crypto assets may be provided by licensed intermediary entities.