Russia's Central Bank Names BTC, ETH and USDT for Retail Trading

Russia’s central bank has named Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH) and Tether (USDT) as crypto assets non-qualified investors may trade under new rules, defining an initial set for retail access.

Investors in that category must pass a risk test before buying crypto. Annual purchases through any single intermediary are capped at 300,000 rubles. The ceiling applies to purchases through each intermediary, making the limit provider-specific.

Moscow Exchange plans to begin crypto trading under the rules on Dec. 1. Its initial assets are BTC, ETH and USDT, and the exchange plans to start with pilot trading. The launch is scheduled, not completed.

The central bank’s clarification identifies which assets fall within the allowance, while the test and annual ceiling set conditions for investors. The announcement pairs token eligibility with investor screening and a purchase limit; the exchange’s planned pilot gives the framework a scheduled market debut.