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On April 21, 2026, the State Duma passed in the first reading Draft Law No. 1194918-8 “On Digital Currency and Digital Rights.” The document lays the foundation for regulating the crypto market in Russia, effectively bringing it closer to a classic financial sector model. Acsour’s legal experts have analyzed the key provisions of the draft law and assessed their practical implications for businesses, investors, and professional market participants.
Key points to note:
- Digital currency is officially recognized as property — this opens the door to inheritance, inclusion in joint marital property, and pledge arrangements.
- A regulated infrastructure is introduced: brokers, trust managers, exchange offices, digital depositories, and trading organizers (similar to the financial market).
- Three models of digital currency ownership are established: through a digital depository, through an individual address controlled by the depository, and through a self-custodial wallet (with additional requirements for judicial protection).
- The ban on using cryptocurrency as a means of payment within Russia remains in place, but settlements under foreign trade contracts with non-residents are permitted.
- Restrictions for non-qualified investors are introduced: investment limits, mandatory testing, and access only to a limited list of assets.
Practical takeaways for businesses:
- Companies using cryptocurrency will need to restructure their settlement processes and strengthen compliance.
- Miners and exchange offices need to prepare for legalization and registration.
- Professional market participants gain a new regulated market segment with licensing opportunities.
The draft law is still at an early stage — amendments are possible before the second reading, and a significant part of the regulation will be delegated to the Bank of Russia. Nevertheless, it is already advisable to assess risks and start adapting business processes.
For a detailed analysis of the draft law, risk assessment, and recommendations, please refer to the full article via the link below
How Acsour experts can help
Acsour experts are ready to:
- advise on the new legislative regulation of digital currencies;
- develop and legally formalize a settlement structure for foreign trade contracts using digital currency;
- assess legal and tax risks associated with holding digital currency;
- support the process of legalizing activities in the digital currency market, including registration in the miners' registry;
- assist in preparing for the legalization of exchange office activities in Russia.
Contact us – we will help you adapt your business processes to the new regulatory requirements and safely structure digital asset transactions.
