Russia Plans Ruble-Pegged Stablecoin for Domestic Use by 2026
Russia's central bank is pivoting toward crypto adoption with plans to study a ruble-pegged stablecoin launch in 2026. First Deputy Governor Vladimir Chistyukhin revealed the feasibility study at Moscow's Alfa Talk conference, marking a strategic shift from the country's 2018 crackdown on private stablecoins.
The MOVE follows Western sanctions that pushed Russia to explore alternative settlement systems. Since 2022, the government has softened its stance—legalizing crypto mining in 2024 and approving digital assets for cross-border trade. Officials estimate crypto-based foreign trade now handles 50 billion rubles daily.
While the digital ruble pilot continues, the proposed private-sector stablecoin WOULD operate under strict oversight. The central bank emphasized that foreign-pegged stablecoins will remain banned, drawing a clear regulatory line.