The Moscow Exchange
plans to launch digital currency trading on December 1, 2026, allowing market
participants to trade Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether. The exchange describes the
initiative as Russia’s first organised market for digital currencies.
London’s trading industry is coming home!
The launch follows
Russia’s gradual expansion of regulated crypto trading. In September, the Moscow
Exchange introduced perpetual-style futures linked to five crypto indices.
Meanwhile, new
legislation established licensing requirements and retail investment
limits. The Bank of Russia also allowed licensed
forex dealers to offer Bitcoin and Ether CFDs to qualified investors, with
leverage capped at 1:10.
Moscow Exchange Gradually Opens Crypto
Market
The new market will
initially operate through pilot transactions. The exchange plans to connect
participants gradually as they become ready. Interest has come from existing
exchange members, their clients and businesses already involved in digital
currency transactions for investment and settlement purposes.
Trading will use the
Moscow Exchange’s existing stock market infrastructure. Transactions will also
be processed through the National Settlement Centre’s clearing system. Trading will follow the Moscow Exchange’s existing stock market
schedule.
Crypto Market to Expand Beyond Three
Assets
The initial offering
will cover BTC, ETH and USDT. Transactions will be available in addressable and
addressless formats. The exchange has not provided further details about these
formats. It also plans to expand the range of digital currencies and other
digital assets over time, including Russian and international instruments.
Clients will be able
to use same-day and next-day settlement options from the launch date. The
exchange will also offer swap transactions to help participants manage
liquidity.
Retail Investors
Face Purchase Limits
Retail access will
depend on investor classification. Unqualified investors will have to pass a
test before buying digital currencies. Their annual purchases will be limited
to 300,000 Russian rubles through a single broker.
The restrictions form
part of Russia’s new regulatory framework for digital currencies. Qualified
investors will not be subject to the same annual purchase limit for unqualified
investors.
This article was written by Tareq Sikder at www.financemagnates.com.
