Russia’s central bank is taking a cautious step into the world of digital assets. On Wednesday, the bank announced that qualified investors can now gain exposure to crypto through certain financial products, without owning the actual coin.
Under the new rules, banks and financial institutions are allowed to offer derivative products that are tied to the price of crypto assets like Bitcoin.
These products include cash-settled futures and structured bonds, meaning any gains or losses will be paid out in traditional currency, not crypto. Retail investors, however, are yet to be allowed this opportunity.
The central bank stressed that only a limited group of professional investors will be allowed to access these instruments as strict conditions apply that banks must fully back these products with capital and enforce risk limits to protect the financial system from crypto’s volatility.
This move is the latest in a series of plans to gradually introduce digital assets into Russia’s managed economy. Although the central bank still warns against direct investment in crypto, it is making room for exposure through familiar financial tools. Over the next few years, officials will develop plans to finalize rules that better manage crypto risks.
Meanwhile, the Russian government is exploring bigger changes as they plan to launch a state-run crypto exchange, where only top-tier investors can trade digital assets under tight oversight. The country is also looking into developing its own stablecoin, a digital currency tied to the ruble after recent issues with foreign stablecoins raised concerns about financial security.
While the general public may not be trading Bitcoin on local platforms anytime soon, this policy shift indicates that Russia is gradually opening up to crypto, on its own terms and at its own pace.
