Russia Expects Regulated Crypto Trading Volume to Exceed $46 Billion in First Year

Russia’s regulated cryptocurrency exchanges could record at least $46.43 billion in trading volume during their first year of operation, with the figure potentially increasing to $87.06 billion by 2029, according to comments from Sberbank Deputy Chairman Anatoly Popov cited in information shared by @WuBlockchain on X.

The projections come as Russia prepares to expand regulated access to crypto assets. The country’s central bank plans to allow investors to legally purchase cryptocurrencies through brokers starting September 1, introducing a formal framework for trading digital assets through licensed financial intermediaries.

Under the planned rules, access will differ depending on an investor’s classification. Non-qualified investors will face an annual purchasing limit of $3,800 when using a single licensed intermediary.

Russia Prepares Regulated Crypto Market

The planned regulatory framework represents a shift toward allowing cryptocurrency transactions through officially authorized financial channels.

Starting September 1, Russia’s central bank plans to permit investors to purchase crypto assets legally through brokers. Rather than accessing digital assets through unregulated channels, eligible investors will be able to use licensed intermediaries operating within the regulatory framework.

The move comes as Russian authorities establish rules for cryptocurrency activity while maintaining restrictions and controls around who can participate and which digital assets can be traded through official exchanges.

The framework is expected to create a regulated market for investors while giving authorities greater oversight of cryptocurrency transactions conducted through licensed financial institutions.

Crypto Trading Volume Could Reach $87.06 Billion by 2029

Anatoly Popov, deputy chairman of Sberbank, said regulated Russian exchanges are expected to generate at least $46.43 billion in cryptocurrency trading volume during their first year.

The projection could increase substantially over the following years, reaching as much as $87.06 billion by 2029, according to the figures cited in the X update.

The estimates point to potentially significant activity within Russia’s regulated crypto market once the new framework becomes operational. However, the projected figures are estimates and do not represent confirmed future trading volumes.

The development of regulated exchanges could also provide a more structured environment for investors seeking exposure to digital assets through established financial intermediaries.

Non-Qualified Investors Face $3,800 Annual Limit

Russia’s planned framework includes specific restrictions for non-qualified investors.

Under the rules outlined in the report, non-qualified investors will be limited to purchasing up to $3,800 worth of crypto assets annually through a single licensed intermediary.

The limit establishes a defined ceiling for retail-style participation while allowing regulated access to cryptocurrency markets. Investors using licensed brokers will therefore be subject to the conditions established under the new framework.

The classification of investors is an important element of the system because access and transaction limits can differ depending on an investor’s status.

Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether Initially Authorized

Russia’s officially authorized exchanges will initially be permitted to trade only three digital assets: Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether.

The authorized assets are Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH) and Tether (USDT). The limited list indicates that the regulated market will initially focus on some of the most established and widely traded digital assets rather than providing unrestricted access to the broader cryptocurrency market.

The framework could therefore provide Russian financial investors with regulated access to a narrow selection of cryptocurrencies while authorities continue to oversee how digital assets are bought and sold through licensed intermediaries.

According to @WuBlockchain, the first-year trading volume is projected at a minimum of $46.43 billion, potentially reaching $87.06 billion by 2029. The new rules are scheduled to begin September 1, marking an important stage in Russia’s development of a regulated cryptocurrency market.

Writer: Victoria Hale
Technology & Blockchain Writer

Victoria Hale writes about blockchain technology, digital infrastructure, and the intersection of emerging technologies with finance. Her articles explore how new protocols and systems are shaping the evolving digital economy.

She prioritises clarity and accuracy when explaining technical developments to a general audience.