Russia's Moscow Exchange (MOEX) plans to introduce cryptocurrency trading on December 1, operating under the country's new digital asset regulations. The exchange will initially support Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and TRON, leveraging its existing infrastructure.
The launch of crypto trading on Russia's largest stock exchange signifies a significant step in the country's integration of digital assets into its regulated financial markets, potentially increasing institutional access and liquidity for cryptocurrencies within Russia.
Moscow Exchange (MOEX), Russia's largest stock exchange, is preparing to launch cryptocurrency trading on December 1, coinciding with the implementation of the country's new regulatory framework for digital assets. The exchange intends to offer trading in Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), XRP, and TRON (TRX) initially.
Boris Blokhin, senior managing director for sales and business development at MOEX, stated on October 8 that the exchange is currently testing the crypto trading functionality with professional traders in a test environment. He confirmed that testing will continue until the planned launch on December 1, aligning with the new legislation. MOEX plans to utilize its existing trading organizer license and stock-market infrastructure for crypto assets, simplifying the process for participants as no additional registration is required.
The announcement follows the enforcement of Russia's cryptocurrency market legislation in early September. The Bank of Russia has commenced the registration of crypto exchange operators and custodians, including major banks like Sberbank and VTB Bank. Sberbank, for instance, is set to introduce its first crypto products on December 1 through its Sberbank Online, SberInvestments, and SberBusiness platforms.
The new regulatory framework distinguishes between investor types. Unqualified investors will be permitted to purchase only Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether (USDT), with an annual limit of 300,000 rubles. Qualified investors, however, will have access to all cryptocurrencies available on the platform and over-the-counter markets without any amount restrictions.
Last month, Moscow Exchange introduced perpetual futures contracts linked to indices of Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP, and TRON. These contracts are denominated in US dollars, settled in Russian rubles, and are exclusively for qualified investors. This move positions MOEX to provide regulated crypto exposure, complementing offerings from banks and other licensed intermediaries in Russia.
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