Russia’s Finance Ministry Submits Bill to Legalize Crypto Investments, Ban Payments

Russian Ministry of Finance has prepared and submitted a new bill to expand crypto regulations to the government. The law “On Digital Currency” aims to introduce rules for investment in cryptocurrencies while at the same time cementing a ban on their use in payments. Draft Law ‘On Digital Currency’ to Regulate Crypto Turnover in Russia … Read more

Russian Social Media Network Vkontakte to Introduce NFT Support

Russia’s largest social media network, Vkontakte, has announced it’s going to introduce support for blockchain and NFTs. The crypto technologies will be incorporated into the platform’s scheme for monetization of user content and copyright protection. Vkontakte to Facilitate Use of Non-Fungible Tokens The leading Russian social media platform, Vkontakte, intends to utilize blockchain technology and … Read more

Crypto Exchange Binance Joins Expert Center at Russian Banks Association

Digital asset exchange Binance has become the first crypto company to support the Association of Banks of Russia in efforts devoted to regulating the country’s growing cryptocurrency market. The coin trading platform will also work with authorities in Moscow as they try to adopt rules for the industry. Binance to Provide Crypto Expertise to Russian … Read more

Russian Finance Ministry to Draft 2 Crypto Laws as Central Bank Prepares Own Bills

The Russian Ministry of Finance has proposed the adoption of two pieces of legislation aimed at regulating cryptocurrencies. The drafts will be presented for public discussions expected to continue until March 18. Media reports have revealed that Bank of Russia has been working on alternative bills. Russian Ministry of Finance to Open Consultations on New … Read more

Russia Adopts Law Allowing State to Seize Illegal Funds, Digital Assets From Officials

The State Duma of Russia, the lower house of parliament, has passed a law permitting law enforcement authorities to seek confiscation of illegally obtained funds from government officials, including cryptocurrency. The state may attempt to seize the assets through court if they exceed the officials’ income. New Law Allows Russia to Prosecute Officials With Illegal … Read more

Banning Crypto Is Like Banning Internet in Russia, Finance Minister Says Amid Differences With Central Bank

It’s impossible to ban cryptocurrencies in Russia, the country’s minister of finance has stated in his first comments on his department’s latest disagreements with the Russian monetary authority. The two institutions are reportedly failing to reach consensus on crypto regulation but the treasury intends to submit draft legislation despite their differences. Disagreements on Future of … Read more

Russia’s Economy Ministry Calls for Introducing ‘Acceptable’ Electricity Rates for Miners

The Ministry of Economic Development of Russia has suggested that crypto mining should be allowed in energy-rich regions and miners provided with access to inexpensive electricity. The department has joined calls to legalize the industry and utilize Russia’s strengths as a mining destination. Crypto Miners Should Have Access to Cheaper Power, Economy Ministry Says Amid … Read more

Bank of Russia Reports First Successful Digital Ruble Transfers Between Users

Testing of the digital ruble has started in Russia with the country’s central bank announcing the first complete transactions between individual wallets. The monetary authority, a staunch opponent of cryptocurrencies, says its digital currency will create new opportunities for citizens, businesses, and the Russian state. Digital Ruble Transactions Carried Out by Commercial Banks and Bank … Read more

Report Attributes Large Share of Global Crypto Crime to Russia, Moscow City

The growing popularity of cryptocurrencies has placed Russia among the leaders in adoption. But while it is yet to reach the top of the ranking, the country already has a “disproportionate share” of global activity related to some forms of crime involving cryptocurrency, according to a new study by Chainalysis. Three Quarters of Ransomware Revenue … Read more

No Crypto Loans and Fewer Trading Options – Russian Finance Ministry Clarifies Regulatory Plan

Russian authorities are not going to allow cryptocurrency lending, the finance ministry has announced, clarifying its proposals for crypto market regulation. The treasury department also revealed that not all cryptocurrencies will be available to Russian investors under the new rules. Russian Government to Restrict Investor Access to Crypto Assets Authorities in Moscow are not planning … Read more