In a notable shift from its traditionally cautious stance on cryptocurrencies, the Bank of Russia has unveiled plans for a three-year experimental legal regime (ELR) to facilitate cryptocurrency trading within the country. This initiative aims to balance innovation with stringent regulatory oversight, reflecting a nuanced approach to digital assets.
A Controlled Experiment in Crypto Trading
The proposed ELR is designed to operate within a controlled environment, allowing the central bank to monitor and assess cryptocurrency transactions under strict regulations. As shared in a tweet by Coin Bureau, the Bank of Russia will allow Bitcoin and crypto purchases—but only for a limited number of investors.
“The Bank of Russia to allow Bitcoin & crypto purchases—but only for a limited number of investors.”
UPDATE: 
The Bank of Russia to allow Bitcoin & crypto purchases—but only for a limited number of investors.
Only qualified investors can trade.
3-year trial approved.
Crypto not recognized as payment. pic.twitter.com/c3hDgPYZ6D
— Coin Bureau (@coinbureau) March 12, 2025
This framework seeks to enhance market transparency and develop service standards, addressing long-standing concerns about the risks associated with digital currencies.
Access to this experimental regime will be limited to a select group of “highly qualified” investors. Individuals must meet specific financial criteria, such as holding investments in securities and deposits totaling over 100 million rubles (approximately $1.15 million) or having an annual income exceeding 50 million rubles. Companies classified as qualified investors under existing regulations may also participate.
Balancing Innovation and Caution
Despite this progressive move, the central bank maintains its cautious stance on cryptocurrencies. The ELR aims to increase transparency in the cryptocurrency market, establish service standards, and expand investment opportunities for experienced investors willing to take on higher risks.
The Bank of Russia has repeatedly stated that private cryptocurrencies are not issued or backed by any jurisdiction, rely on mathematical algorithms, and are highly volatile. Therefore, investors must understand the risks of potential financial losses before investing in cryptocurrencies.
Implications for the Russian Financial Landscape
This initiative represents a significant development in Russia’s approach to digital assets, potentially paving the way for broader adoption and integration of cryptocurrencies into the mainstream financial system. By allowing a controlled group of investors to engage in cryptocurrency trading, the Bank of Russia aims to gather valuable insights that could inform future regulatory decisions, balancing the benefits of innovation with the imperative of financial stability.
Following the latest CNF update on the Bank of Russia’s plan to use Bitcoin and crypto in cross-border payments, Russia’s use of digital currencies remains an experiment under close supervision.
At the time of writing, Bitcoin (BTC) is trading at approximately $82,912.00 USD, reflecting a 0.65% increase in the past 24 hours. See BTC price chart below.
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