Total Crypto Ban In Russia Imminent: Lawmakers Confirm Enforcement In 5 Months

As a long-term crypto investor with a background in Russian politics and economics, I find the recent announcement of potential restrictions on cryptocurrency circulation in Russia both intriguing and concerning. While the intentions of Anatoly Aksakov, Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Financial Market, are clear – protecting the domestic economy from competition with digital assets and maintaining the role of the ruble as the official currency – I believe this decision comes with significant risks and unintended consequences.


As a crypto investor, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the latest developments in the Russian market. Recently, some exciting news emerged: lawmakers have declared their intent to impose limitations on the trading and circulation of digital assets. These potential restrictions could take effect as soon as September 1. It will be crucial for investors like myself to stay informed about any updates or changes that may impact our investments in this space.

Anatoly Aksakov, the head of the Russian State Duma’s Financial Market Committee, announced that lawmakers are set to vote on prohibiting the establishment of cryptocurrency circulation within the next few weeks.

Crypto Restrictions In Russia

The new law seeks to prevent the founding of digital asset trading platforms and intermediaries outside of Russia’s experimental regulatory framework, but welcomes the issuance of cryptocurrencies within Russian borders, demonstrating Russia’s commitment to safeguarding its domestic economy.

As a crypto investor, I’d interpret this as follows: I’m allowed to engage in digital currency mining or join mining pools under an experimental regulatory framework. Additionally, Central Banks are given the green light to test their digital currency projects within this same permissive legal environment.

Anatoly Aksakov stressed that the goal is not to outlaw the utilization of digital assets altogether in the country, but instead to impose limitations on their domestic circulation.

Aksakov additionally shared that the rationale behind limiting the spread of digital assets stems from the viewpoint that cryptocurrencies act as alternative currencies, in competition with the Russian ruble.

As a financial analyst, I believe imposing restrictions on digital assets is essential for me to uphold the ruble’s status as Russia’s primary currency. According to Aksakov’s announcement, this measure is deemed necessary.

Beginning September 1st, the use of bitcoins and other cryptocurrencies for transactions within Russia will be restricted. However, digital equivalents of the Russian ruble will be permitted. The rationale behind this measure is that cryptocurrencies currently serve as unofficial replacements for the ruble in Russia. Yet, only the Russian ruble holds the function of a legal tender, so this regulation has been imposed.

Protecting Against Western Sanctions? 

The deputy chairman of Russia’s State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Anton Gorelkin, defended the government’s decision to prohibit the organization of cryptocurrency circulation. He explained that this measure is taken in the interest of safeguarding Russia’s economic security.

Gorelkin argues that creating a domestic virtual currency system could make a country vulnerable to Western sanctions.

As a researcher examining Russia’s regulatory approach to cryptocurrencies, I cannot overlook the geopolitical context that influences their perspective. The prohibition of cryptocurrencies can be seen as a prudent move aimed at addressing potential risks in the current global political climate.

Starting September 1, new regulations limiting the use of cryptocurrencies will be enforced. However, keep in mind that these rules are not final and may be subject to review or modification in the future.

Gorelkin has left open the possibility of lifting the ban at a later time. Currently, though, efforts are being made to set up regulations under the existing experimental law and safeguard the national economy.

Total Crypto Ban In Russia Imminent: Lawmakers Confirm Enforcement In 5 Months

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2024-04-29 18:41