- Russia to legalize cryptocurrencies for international settlements by September 1.
- Digital ruble to launch for widespread use by July 2025 after pilot tests.
- The new measures aim to ease transaction difficulties due to international sanctions.
In a significant move to adapt to international economic pressures, Russia is set to legalize cryptocurrencies for international settlements and launch its central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital ruble, by July 2025.
These initiatives aim to bolster the country’s financial resilience amidst ongoing sanctions and economic challenges.
Proposed legislation to take effect on Sept. 1 if passed
The proposed legislation to legalize cryptocurrencies for international settlements, if passed, will regulate digital assets like Bitcoin under the same framework as foreign currencies.
Anatoly Aksakov, head of the Duma’s financial market committee, stated that this new bill, scheduled to take effect on September 1, will ease the transactional difficulties Russian companies face due to sanctions.
The move comes after President Vladimir Putin signed Russia’s digital ruble bill into law, highlighting a significant shift in Russia’s stance on cryptocurrency.
Russia’s struggle with international transfers since the Ukraine conflict began in January 2022 has prompted creative solutions.
With many sanctioned countries like Venezuela already using crypto for international settlements, Russia’s new legislation reflects a broader trend.
However, compliance with the new regulations may limit participation to large and mid-size companies, as noted by crypto analyst Ani Aslanyan.
The increased scrutiny from countries like the US is anticipated if the bill is passed, especially following fines like Lithuania’s €9.3 million penalty on crypto firm Payeer for sanction violations.
Bank of Russia to launch digital ruble to the public by July 2025
Simultaneously, the Bank of Russia is gearing up for the widespread use of the digital ruble by July 2025.
The digital ruble, a blockchain-based digital currency, has been in development since 2017, initially referred to as the “crypto ruble.”
Following successful pilot tests involving 600 employees from 13 banks, the transition to this CBDC is expected to be gradual, ensuring convenience for users.
Elvira Nabiullina, the central bank governor, emphasized that the digital ruble would complement existing cash and non-cash rubles, not replace them.
These initiatives signify Russia’s strategic adaptation to a rapidly changing global financial landscape.
By leveraging cryptocurrencies and digital currencies, Russia aims to mitigate the impact of sanctions and foster more robust international trade channels.
As the country navigates these economic waters, the effectiveness of these measures will be closely watched by both supporters and critics on the global stage.
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