The Bank of Russia has stated the reason for implementing limits on cryptocurrency transactions., 2026/04/14 10:50:53

The Central Bank of Russia does not intend to encourage citizens to actively engage in cryptocurrency usage, thus proposing restrictions for non-qualified investors. This was stated by the first deputy chairman of the Central Bank, Vladimir Chistyukhin.

According to him, during discussions regarding the legislative proposal for cryptocurrency regulation in Russia, parameters for restrictions on non-qualified investors are being considered.

“The first topic of discussion is the amount. However, in my view, it is not very active, as many participants understand: if we are talking about ‘non-qualified’ individuals, 300,000 rubles is a considerable sum. For specific transfers — such as for medical treatment or education — it is generally sufficient,” Chistyukhin explained.

The second topic of discussion is the mechanism for implementing the limit. The regulator suggests capping the annual volume of cryptocurrency transactions: non-qualified investors will be able to buy and sell assets from a single professional participant for no more than 300,000 rubles per year.

An alternative approach is being discussed in the market — limiting not the turnover, but the balance of funds in the account. In this scenario, an investor could conduct an unlimited number of transactions as long as the final balance does not exceed the established limit, Chistyukhin noted.

“We do not wish to intentionally involve individuals in cryptocurrency circulation. Non-qualified investors are permitted not for active trading, but so they can make socially significant payments under the existing transfer restrictions,” he stated.

Chistyukhin added that the approach may be reassessed following the implementation of regulation.

“We are prepared to adopt a flexible stance on several provisions of the law. Currently, the primary objective is to pass a quality legislative proposal and initiate its practical application to determine which provisions are effective and which require adjustments,” he remarked.

The 300,000 ruble limit is also under discussion at the Ministry of Finance of the Russian Federation. At the end of January 2026, Deputy Minister Ivan Chebeskov indicated that this figure is preliminary and needs further agreement, including with law enforcement agencies.

No restrictions are planned for qualified investors. However, they will need to undergo testing on their knowledge of the instrument before executing transactions. In 2026, the status of a qualified investor can be obtained with assets of at least 24 million rubles, income of 12 million rubles over two years, relevant education, or verified experience in the financial market.

The draft law “On Digital Currency and Digital Rights” was submitted to the State Duma on April 1, 2026. The document outlines the structure of the future market: in addition to exchanges, brokers, and management companies, the emergence of licensed exchangers is anticipated, which will only be able to conduct cashless transactions. Criminal liability may be introduced for violations of cryptocurrency circulation rules.

It is expected that the basic regulation will come into effect on July 1, 2026, and the first transactions in the Russian market may occur by the end of the year. The introduction of liability for violations is planned for later — starting July 1, 2027.

Previously, the Interfax agency, citing a source, reported that the governmental commission on legislative activity approved the draft law on criminal liability for organizing illegal cryptocurrency circulation if it results in significant damage.