Russia Moves to Recognize Cryptocurrency as Marital Property in Divorce Settlements

Russian lawmakers are pushing to classify cryptocurrency as joint marital property in divorce cases, marking a significant step toward mainstream financial recognition of digital assets. The draft legislation, spearheaded by State Duma member Igor Antropenko, aims to amend Russia's Family Code to treat crypto acquired during marriage as shared assets—mirroring the treatment of traditional property.

The proposal comes amid surging crypto adoption in Russia, with transaction volumes hitting $376.3 billion between July 2024 and June 2025. Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Central Bank Chairwoman Elvira Nabiullina are currently reviewing the measure, which cites constitutional property rights as justification for regulatory clarity.

This MOVE follows South Korea's precedent-setting recognition of crypto in divorce proceedings, highlighting a growing global trend of legal systems grappling with digital asset classification. The legislation specifically exempts cryptocurrencies obtained before marriage or through gifts.