Bank of Russia Proposes Revised Timeline for Digital Ruble Rollout

The Central Bank of Russia has submitted an updated implementation schedule for its digital ruble to the State Duma, outlining a phased approach to adoption. Large financial institutions will begin processing transactions by September 2026, with mandatory acceptance requirements for major retailers commencing simultaneously.

Smaller banks and businesses face later deadlines, extending through September 2028. The staggered rollout reflects deliberate infrastructure development for Russia's CBDC, contrasting with private cryptocurrencies' organic market penetration.

This institutional digital currency deployment occurs against the backdrop of expanding global CBDC experiments, though Russia's timeline remains more measured than some Asian counterparts. The monetary authority's exception clauses for certain merchants suggest targeted rather than blanket adoption strategies.