Bank OF Russia

Russian retailers reported a sharp increase in hardware crypto wallet sales as new rules for digital assets move closer. The surge highlights growing interest in self-custody, even as legal limits and device-security risks remain firmly in place.

Sberbank, Russia’s largest bank, plans to launch cryptocurrency trading infrastructure and a digital depository by Dec. 1 as Russia builds a more regulated market for digital assets. New rules for crypto trading, custody and settlement take effect Sept. 1, while requirements for licensed intermediaries begin from July 2027.

Sberbank is preparing a cryptocurrency wallet and digital depository for its main banking and investment platforms, with a launch targeted by December. The plan follows Russia’s move toward a licensing framework for crypto trading, custody, digital-to-fiat exchange and cross-border settlements.