While facing global sanctions limiting crypto usage, Russia is cautiously opening doors to regulated crypto-linked products. The country’s central bank has granted financial institutions the ability to offer derivative, securities, and digital assets tied to cryptocurrency price movements. However, these products cannot be settled directly in Bitcoin or Ethereum. Instead, investors will access these instruments through related market prices. Qualified investors with substantial experience and financial background will only be able to trade these products. 🔒 Strict controls are in place, requiring institutions to back the products with sufficient capital and set limits to mitigate risks. The Bank of Russia also aims to formalize rules for managing crypto-related risk in the coming year. This comes as many countries, including the U.S., EU, Japan, and UK, have imposed sanctions on Russian digital assets and usage, aiming to prevent funds from being used for illicit activities. 💰 Despite these restrictions, Russia has a significant Bitcoin holding – estimated at over $5.5 billion – acquired through direct purchases and seized during criminal investigations. 📈