Russian Banks Baulk at Digital Ruble Implementation Costs

Russian banks, particularly smaller ones, are unhappy about the high cost (between $1.25 million and $2 million) of integrating with the central bank’s digital ruble platform. This cost is seen as prohibitive for many banks, exceeding their IT budgets. The central bank has mandated different deadlines for various bank categories to offer digital ruble services, … Read more

Bank of Russia Claims Digital Ruble Issuance Won’t Cause Inflation

The Bank of Russia has explained that the launch of the digital ruble, the Russian CBDC, will not affect the state’s mechanisms to control inflation or the amount of money issued. The institution clarified that the new currency does not pose risks to the country’s financial stability, and will not change the functions of the … Read more

Bank of Russia to Launch Digital Ruble Payment Infrastructure by July 2025

The Bank of Russia aims to open the payment infrastructure for the Russian central bank digital currency (CBDC), the digital ruble, by July next year. Larger banks will offer digital ruble accounts and services by this deadline, with smaller institutions following later. The initiative seeks to enhance payment efficiency and reduce costs, with retailers also … Read more

Russia Expands Digital Ruble Pilot With New Features: Widespread Use Expected in 2025

Russia’s central bank is expanding its digital currency pilot program, involving 9,000 individuals and 1,200 companies. New features for the digital ruble, including payments via QR code, will be tested. Full-scale implementation is expected by late 2025. According to officials, demand for the digital ruble is growing, with successful integration anticipated due to ongoing sanctions. … Read more

Bank of Russia Eyes Stablecoins for Cross-Border Transactions

The Bank of Russia is exploring the use of stablecoins in cross-border transactions, considering them as digital financial assets (DFAs) under existing regulations if they have a responsible entity. The initiative may involve a limited group of qualified investors and would require testing for regulatory feasibility. Bank of Russia Explores Stablecoin Use for Cross-Border Transactions … Read more

Putin Signs Law to Advance Cryptocurrency Use in Russia’s International Trade

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law to establish experimental legal frameworks to advance digital technologies, particularly cryptocurrencies, in international trade. The legislation allows for the modification of laws to facilitate cryptocurrency transactions, including cross-border trade, and grants the Bank of Russia oversight of pilot projects related to digital currencies. Putin Signs Law … Read more

Putin Signs Law to Regulate Crypto Mining in Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has enacted legislation to formally regulate the cryptocurrency mining sector in Russia, with the law set to take effect in November. This legislation establishes a regulated framework for mining operations, limiting participation from entities associated with electricity and prohibiting the promotion of cryptocurrencies. It also allows the circulation of mined cryptocurrency … Read more

Bank of Russia Expects Wide Adoption of Digital Ruble Within 5 to 7 Years

Elvira Nabiullina, the governor of the Bank of Russia, declared that she expects the digital ruble, the Russian CBDC, to achieve a high level of acceptance due to the benefits it offers to Russian citizens. During a speech at the Federation Council, Nabiullina stated that it would be widely adopted within five to seven years. … Read more

Russia to Initiate Crypto Payments Internationally by Year-End, Central Bank Governor Says

Russia plans to launch international cryptocurrency payments by the end of the year to counter Western sanctions, according to the governor of the Bank of Russia. The central bank is prepared to be flexible and is already discussing the conditions of this initiative with various ministries, agencies, and businesses. In addition, Russia’s State Duma, the … Read more