Russia’s central bank has outlined new requirements for digital depositories and organized crypto trading, adding another layer to the country’s planned regulated cryptocurrency market before wider legislation takes effect this fall.

Framework for a regulated market

The Bank of Russia said the new standards are intended to create a more structured environment for digital asset activity. The measures focus on transparency, investor protection, and operational stability as regulators prepare the market infrastructure ahead of the next phase of crypto legislation.

According to the framework, the authorities want institutions handling digital assets to meet financial and operational standards closer to those used in traditional securities markets.

Capital and liquidity requirements

A central part of the new rules is the introduction of minimum capital thresholds for digital depositories. These firms will be required to hold between ₽50 million and ₽250 million in capital, with the exact level depending on their business model and the services they provide.

In addition to capital, operators must maintain liquid assets of high credit quality. The requirement is meant to strengthen financial resilience and provide a buffer for firms operating in the new market structure.

Role of depositories and platforms

Under the proposed system, digital depositories will be responsible for recording ownership of cryptocurrencies, administering digital accounts, and keeping transaction records under standardized procedures.

Electronic platform operators will also have a defined role. They are expected to supervise settlements through designated nominal accounts, forming part of the broader infrastructure for organized crypto trading.

Implementation timeline

Most of the new rules are scheduled to come into force on Sept. 1, 2026. The central bank has set July 2027 as the deadline for full compliance.

The rollout is aligned with legislation that allows the use of cryptocurrencies in cross-border business transactions while keeping in place Russia’s restrictions on their use for domestic payments.

Further safeguards planned

The article says authorities are also planning additional anti-fraud measures later in 2027. Those steps have not yet been detailed, but they are presented as part of a broader effort to build confidence in Russia’s developing digital asset system.

Taken together, the latest standards show Russia continuing to formalize the institutions that would support a regulated crypto market, while preserving the distinction between approved cross-border use and restrictions inside the domestic payments system.

Source: Coin Edition