Russia Approves Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT Trading

11.08.2026 · By Bernal Fintech Markets Desk

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Russia has approved Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether’s USDT for regulated trading on licensed exchanges, according to multiple reports. The Bank of Russia has proposed allowing these three digital assets for public trading, with annual purchase limits for non-qualified investors and mandatory risk testing. XRP, however, was excluded from the list of eligible assets.

The move comes as Russia prepares to open its new crypto market framework to investors. The central bank selected Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT based on criteria including liquidity, market capitalization, trading activity, and historical price data. This approval is not a blanket legalization of all crypto activity but defines which tokens gain formal market access.

Regulatory Framework and Eligibility

The Bank of Russia has cleared Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT for public trading on regulated exchanges. Retail investors will face a $3,690 annual cap on purchases, according to some reports. This framework aims to enhance institutional legitimacy and cross-border transactions while restricting domestic use. The exclusion of XRP highlights regulatory hurdles and market uncertainty for the asset.

The central bank’s decision follows a law signed by President Vladimir Putin last week, which paved the way for regulated crypto trading. The approval of these three assets may boost their adoption and global utility, while XRP’s exclusion could hinder its market growth.

What it means for markets

This regulatory move could enhance the legitimacy of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT in Russia’s financial system, potentially increasing their adoption and cross-border utility. However, the exclusion of XRP underscores ongoing regulatory challenges for other cryptocurrencies. The move is a significant step in Russia’s broader efforts to regulate the digital asset space.