Summary: Russia’s Central Bank Governor, Elvira Nabiullina, has confirmed that crypto isn’t making the cut for domestic payments in the country. While Russia isn’t rolling with Bitcoin for everyday purchases, they’re embracing crypto for international trade to sidestep Western sanctions.
No Crypto for Daily Use
During a press conference, Nabiullina put it bluntly: “We continue to believe that cryptocurrencies should not be used as a means of domestic payment.” This keeps Russia’s current legislation, which bans crypto for local transactions, firmly in place. But they’re not entirely shutting the door on crypto. In fact, they’re open to it for international payments, with Nabiullina adding, “We support and promote projects related to the use of cryptocurrency for external payments, but for domestic payments no.”
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Crypto Moves Beyond Borders
Russia is doubling down on crypto’s potential for global trade. The Central Bank is gearing up to test its first cross-border cryptocurrency payment before the year wraps up. This approach aligns with the country’s strategy to maneuver around Western sanctions.
In 2023, Russia started experimenting with crypto for external settlements, and by March 2024, President Vladimir Putin signed a law allowing digital financial assets for specific uses. While the Central Bank stays firm on banning crypto for daily transactions, its selective adoption signals a strategic pivot in how Russia leverages blockchain tech globally.
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