Russia Moves to Remove Crypto From Special Financial Regulation

Russia is getting ready to change how it treats cryptocurrency. A new bill is now prepared that could remove crypto from “special financial regulation.” That makes it easier for people to use digital assets in daily life. The news comes from Anatoly Aksakov, chairman of the State Duma Committee on Financial Markets. Speaking to Russian media outlet Rossiya-24. He stated that the government wants crypto to become a normal part of life for Russian citizens. The news was first reported by TASS. If the bill is passed, it would mark one of Russia’s biggest policy shifts on crypto so far.

Russia’s Changing View on Crypto

For years, Russia treated cryptocurrency very cautiously. Domestic use was limited and crypto was placed under special financial rules. It was seen more as a risky investment tool than something people could freely use.

That started to change in 2024. After Western sanctions restricted access to global banking, Russia legalized crypto for international payments. This allowed companies to use digital assets for cross-border trade and settlements. Now, the government is moving one step further. Instead of keeping crypto under strict special rules. Lawmakers want to bring it into the normal financial system. In simple words, they want crypto to feel more like a regular financial product.

What the New Bill Plans to Do

According to Anatoly Aksakov, the new bill will remove cryptocurrencies from special financial regulation. This means crypto would no longer be treated as a special or restricted asset class. The goal is to make crypto use more common for ordinary people. The bill also allows non-professional investors to buy crypto but with limits. Regular citizens could invest up to 300k RUB annually, which is around $3K. The legislation will allow professional investors and financial firms to operate without limits.

Aksakov also stated that Russia could actively use crypto for international settlements. Russia may even issue digital assets locally and place them on foreign financial markets. At the same time, crypto will still not become legal tender. In other words, it will not replace the ruble. It will remain an investment tool and payment option, not official money.

Why Russia Is Doing This Now

Sanctions have pushed Russia to look for new financial tools. Crypto offers faster payments, fewer barriers and access to global markets without relying on Western banks. Digital financial assets are also becoming a big focus for the government. Lawmakers intend to spend much of the spring 2026 session debating crypto and blockchain development. Russia sees crypto as an opportunity to expand its digital economy.

Possible Impact and Risks

If the new bill passes, crypto adoption in Russia could rise quickly. More people may start using digital assets for saving, investing and payments. It could also attract more blockchain projects and fintech companies into the country. But risks remain. Crypto is volatile and frauds are still common globally. The government states that basic oversight will remain in place to prevent fraud and money laundering.

What Happens Next

Russia’s State Duma will discuss the new bill during its spring 2026 parliamentary session. If approved, it might become effective later this year. Currently one thing is clear. Russia is shifting from strict regulation to more widespread crypto use. Furthermore, if lawmakers have their way. Digital assets could soon become a part of everyday life for millions of Russians.