The Central Bank opposes the use of cryptocurrency within the country.
On July 3, 2025, Elvira Nabiullina, the head of Russia’s central bank, reiterated that the use of crypto for domestic settlements is unacceptable. She emphasized that the central bank’s position remains unchanged – crypto will not be an official means of payment in Russia.
According to her, payments via cryptocurrency are permitted in international trade but under strict control and restrictions. Only highly qualified investors with assets of about 100 million rubles or high income are allowed to work with digital financial instruments under a special legal regime. This approach combines protective measures for the domestic market with flexibility at the international level.
1) Control over money turnover and financial stability
2) The ability to support foreign economic operations, especially in the face of sanctions.
3) Tools such as the A7A5 stablecoin are used in cross-border transactions, albeit so far in a “gray zone”. Transfer volumes can reach up to $9 billion.
This means for the market and investors:
– Limited use of cryptocurrencies for international transactions only, not for domestic settlements.
– Access by status: only experienced, wealthy investors will have access to digital assets.
– Regulatory experimentation: the market is developing through pilots, with the Central Bank closely monitoring and controlling the situation.
If you’re interested in working with cryptocurrencies, it’s important to follow the development of pilot modes and be a qualified investor.
The Central Bank opposes the use of cryptocurrency within the country.
