Russia's New Crypto Law Bans Domestic Payments, Sets License Rules
Russia's new crypto law legalizes investment but bans domestic payments, with Bank of Russia as sole regulator. Prediction markets show low odds on Bitcoin to $200k by 2026.
The Russian parliament passed a law regulating crypto, Cointelegraph reported. The State Duma enacted legislation that legalizes crypto for qualified and non-qualified investors. Domestic payments for goods and services remain prohibited. The Bank of Russia becomes the sole regulator. Exchanges and brokers must obtain licenses and operate under a whitelisted asset framework. The law also imposes an annual cap on retail investments and a risk-awareness test.
Market response is mixed. The regulation could provide a more structured environment, though the ban on domestic payments and strict controls may limit enthusiasm. Prediction markets show low support for Bitcoin reaching $200,000 by the end of 2026, with a peak of 5.5% YES for December 2026.
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