Moscow Exchange Tests Spot Crypto Trading Ahead of Planned December Launch

The Moscow Exchange is actively testing cryptocurrency trading with professional market participants ahead of an planned launch on December 1, 2026. The rollout will enable direct spot trading of Bitcoin, Ether, and Tether for non-qualified retail investors through partner digital settlement depositories without requiring additional permits. Retail access will be subject to a mandatory knowledge test and an annual purchase limit of 300,000 rubles (roughly $3,556 to $3,600), while qualified investors face no caps. The expansion follows Russia's new digital currency legal framework enacted on September 1, 2026.