Bank of Russia lists first crypto operators

The Bank of Russia has published its first crypto operator registers, naming VTB Bank and Sberbank among authorised firms.

The registers, released under rules that took effect on 1 September 2026, cover two categories of market participants: cryptocurrency exchange operators and digital custodians. Four companies appear on the exchange operator list and five on the custodian list, with VTB Bank the only entity included in both. Sberbank, listed as a custodian, plans to introduce its first crypto products on 1 December 2026, with support for Bitcoin, Ether, and USDT.

From legislation to supervised operators

The registers follow the crypto law signed by Russian President Vladimir Putin in August 2026, which set out a framework for exchanges, custodians, brokers, and investors. Oversight of the market sits with the Bank of Russia, and the publication of named operators moves the regime from statute towards practical implementation.

Under the central bank’s explanation of the rules, non-qualified investors may buy most liquid cryptocurrencies up to USD 3,515 per year, through a single intermediary and only after passing a test. Qualified investors must also pass a test, but face no cap on purchases or sales.