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Sberbank Approved for Crypto Trading Amid Regulatory Shift in Russia

Sberbank Approved for Crypto Trading Amid Regulatory Shift in Russia

First seen 15 Oct 2026, 07:36 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 16, 2026 at 06:49 UTC
  • •Sberbank will begin crypto trading on December 1, 2026.
  • •Retail clients face a 300,000 ruble cap and must pass a knowledge test.
  • •Crypto payments remain illegal in Russia despite the new trading approvals.

Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, has received approval from the Bank of Russia to operate as a cryptocurrency exchange, allowing it to trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT starting December 1, 2026. This approval follows its recent listing as a digital depository, enabling the bank to manage clients' crypto holdings directly. The new regulations impose restrictions, including a cap of 300,000 rubles per year for retail clients and a mandatory knowledge test for buyers. Despite this progress, crypto payments remain illegal in Russia, and the bank must comply with upcoming secondary regulations. This marks a significant shift from the Bank of Russia's previous stance against cryptocurrencies, which included proposals to ban exchanges and mining. Sberbank aims to leverage its existing client base of over 110 million retail customers to integrate crypto services into its banking apps.

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Timeline

2026-10-07
Sberbank listed as digital depository
Sberbank was listed as a digital depository by the Bank of Russia, allowing it to manage clients' crypto holdings.
Coindesk
2026-10-12
Sberbank added to crypto exchange register
The Bank of Russia officially added Sberbank to its list of authorized crypto exchange operators, enabling it to trade cryptocurrencies.
Decrypt.Co

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Common questions

What cryptocurrencies can Sberbank trade?
Sberbank is authorized to trade Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether's USDT.
Are there any restrictions for retail clients?
Yes, retail clients can only invest up to 300,000 rubles annually per intermediary and must pass a knowledge test.
Is crypto spending allowed in Russia?
No, paying for goods with cryptocurrencies remains illegal in Russia.