#比特币2026年行情展望 Russia's New Regulatory Framework: Tens of Millions of Crypto Holders to Gain Legal Status

The crypto world has another major development. Russia is pushing for a far-reaching regulatory overhaul, aiming to complete relevant legislation by July 2026. This means that the crypto activities of tens of millions of people will transition from underground to mainstream.

Why has Russia suddenly changed its stance? Two realistic forces are driving this shift:

**Market Base Determines Policy Direction**
Currently, nearly 20 million Russians hold crypto assets. This number is large enough to make the "ban" option impractical. Instead of fighting market realities, it’s better to incorporate them into the framework.

**Objective Demand Under Western Financial Sanctions**
Assets like BTC and ETH have long served as cross-border value transfer channels. In an environment where traditional financial channels are restricted, the new regulatory approach is to guide rather than block.

**Specific Policy Details**

Cryptocurrencies are officially defined as "monetary assets," allowing trading but prohibiting their use for payments domestically — a delicate balance.

Investors are managed in two categories: ordinary users must undergo risk assessments, with annual purchase limits around 300,000 rubles (about $3,300); qualified investors face no limits. All profits must be taxed, leaving no gray areas.

The timeline is quite cautious — the legal framework will take effect in July 2026, with penalties for underground intermediaries not enforced until July 2027, providing ample transition time for the market.

This is not simply a "release." Russia is building a strict, controllable new system that serves national interests. When a major economy officially embraces crypto regulation, the global legitimacy of the industry is further solidified.