According to TASS News Agency, Russian President Putin signed the "Digital Currency and Digital Rights Law", and the core provisions of the law will come into effect on September 1, 2026. This document establishes an operational framework for cryptocurrency exchanges, digital asset repositories, and market participants, and specifies the conditions for investors to purchase cryptocurrencies. Only entities listed in specialized registration agencies are allowed to engage in digital currency trading activities, but they do not need to register to operate before July 1, 2027. The minimum capital requirement for such institutions is 15 million rubles (approximately 187339 US dollars). Retail investors are only allowed to purchase the most liquid cryptocurrencies through intermediaries, with an annual purchase limit of 300000 rubles (approximately $3700) per intermediary. Qualified investors are not subject to this restriction, and both types of investors must pass the eligibility test. Individuals can qualify as qualified investors based on their trading records. The law reserves the provision prohibiting the use of digital currencies and digital rights as payment methods or legal tender within the territory of Russia.
