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The Central Bank of Russia bans cryptocurrency as a means of payment: what will change for investors

Центральний банк Росії забороняє використання криптовалюти для розрахунків: які наслідки чекають на інвесторів?

New rules for regulating the virtual assets market in Russia

The Central Bank of Russia (CBR) has announced the development of a new concept for regulating the virtual assets market, which prohibits the use of cryptocurrencies as a means of payment while legalizing their status as property. This initiative reflects the regulator's desire to organize the cryptocurrency market in the country.

Main provisions of the new rules

According to the new rules, cryptocurrency in Russia is recognized as property, but its use as money is prohibited. Payments using cryptocurrencies are prohibited on the territory of the Russian Federation. Users in the country are divided into 'qualified' and 'non-qualified' investors. Qualified investors will have limited freedom in their activities but will be prohibited from working with anonymous cryptocurrencies. In turn, non-qualified investors will only be able to buy a limited list of assets with a cap of 300,000 rubles per year.

The circulation of cryptocurrencies in Russia is only possible through controlled intermediaries, aiming to ensure greater control over the market. Cross-border transactions involving cryptocurrencies are also allowed, but on the condition of declaration to the tax authorities. Thus, the new rules create a system where all operations will be monitored, confirming the trend towards increased control over the virtual assets market in Russia.

This new regulatory concept reflects the growing awareness of Russian regulators regarding the potential risks associated with cryptocurrencies, as well as the desire to ensure greater transparency and security in the financial market.

As the global trend moves towards the legalization and regulation of cryptocurrencies, the new rules may become an important step for Russia in ensuring control over this sector and protecting investors.