Russia proposes fast-track licensing for bank-run crypto exchanges through a notification system as new digital asset regulations move forward.
Russia is preparing a major shift in its cryptocurrency regulation framework. The Central Bank of Russia has proposed the rapid licensing of banks and brokerage firms. The new approach would enable financial institutions to run crypto exchanges by means of a simplified notification process rather than complete relicensing.
Russia Proposes Simplified Licensing for Crypto Exchanges
The proposal was announced by Elvira Nabiullina, who explained that financial institutions could enter the crypto market under existing licenses. This would mean banks and brokers would inform regulators instead of applying for an entirely new permit.
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As per the plan, institutions already operating under strict financial rules could work as crypto intermediaries. These firms already have powerful anti-money laundering and fraud prevention systems in place. Therefore, it is thought by regulators that they are in a better position to manage the risks in the digital asset market.
Nabiullina emphasized that banks are already subject to strict rules in relation to AML and counter-terrorism financing. As a result, these systems are expected by regulators to safeguard customers if cryptocurrency trading increases in availability.
However, the central bank also wishes to restrict financial risk in the initial stages. Banks will only be authorised to devote up to 1% of their capital to cryptocurrency activities. Officials are planning to see how institutions are operating under this cap before expanding the program further.
Meanwhile, Russia is trying to create a more general legal framework for digital assets. In December 2025, the central bank submitted a regulatory concept to the government on cryptocurrencies and stablecoins.
The idea is to have the digital currencies be recognised as financial assets that can be exchanged. However, the authorities still intend to ban their use for payments within the country.
New Crypto Law Expected to Move Through Parliament in 2026
Russia’s government has plans to come out with detailed legislation in early 2026. According to officials, the bill will be submitted to the State Duma in March of 2026.
The objective of the legislation is to provide clarity on the regulatory framework for cryptocurrency trading and custody. Exchanges, brokers, and trustees will be able to trade using existing financial infrastructure.
However, specialized services such as crypto depositories and exchange operators can encounter additional regulatory requirements. These institutions would address asset storage and settlement processes.
The proposed rules also bring in the limits of certain investors. Qualified investors would be free to buy cryptocurrencies. Meanwhile, unqualified investors were only able to purchase digital assets up to 300,000 rubles a year from licensed intermediaries.
Officials hope the new framework will be approved during the spring parliamentary session. If approved, the system will be fully implemented on July 1, 2026.
Russian Exchanges Prepare for Regulated Crypto Trading
The new licensing proposal might change the shape of the cryptocurrency market of cryptocurrencies in Russia. Officials want to construct what some call a controlled domestic ecosystem dominated by regulated institutions.
Major financial marketplaces are already preparing for this possibility. Platforms like the Moscow Exchange and the Saint Petersburg Exchange have confirmed that they are technologically in place to launch cryptocurrency trading services.
These measures are part of a broader Russian strategy to gain greater control over the digital financial markets at home. Authorities want local institutions to rule the sector without losing control over regulating it.
Overall, the fast-track licensing system is a significant move towards incorporating cryptocurrency services into the traditional banking system of Russia. If implemented correctly, the framework could bring a regulated digital asset market to the country faster.
