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Sberbank Pioneers Bitcoin-Linked Bond Issuance in Russia
In a major development for Russia’s cryptocurrency sector, Sberbank—Russia’s largest commercial bank—has announced the launch of new structured bonds that track Bitcoin price dynamics and the USD/RUB exchange rate. These innovative financial instruments are initially available to qualified investors through over-the-counter (OTC) markets, providing new avenues for digital asset exposure without the direct need to own physical Bitcoin.
Planned Moscow Exchange Listing Aims for Enhanced Transparency
Sberbank revealed plans to list these cryptocurrency-linked bonds on the Moscow Exchange in the near future. The bank believes that public trading will not only boost transparency and liquidity but will also make it easier for a broader range of investors to access these digital asset-related securities.
How Sberbank’s Crypto Bonds Work
According to details shared by Sberbank, these structured bonds allow investors to benefit from both the growth of Bitcoin’s price against the US dollar and the appreciation of the dollar relative to the ruble. All transactions related to these securities are settled in Russian rubles and fully comply with the nation’s regulatory framework. This means investors can participate in Bitcoin-linked opportunities without needing a digital asset wallet or resorting to unauthorized platforms.
Sberbank also shared its ambition to expand crypto-related financial products through its proprietary platform, SberInvestments. The bank’s first official offering is set to be a Bitcoin futures contract, pending final regulatory approval. If greenlit by the Moscow Exchange, this innovative product could be listed as soon as June 4.
Regulatory Progress Fuels Crypto Finance Innovation
This move comes shortly after Russia’s Central Bank, on May 28, authorized financial institutions to offer select crypto-based financial instruments to accredited investors—while maintaining a ban on direct sales of cryptocurrencies. On the very same day, T-Bank (formerly Tinkoff Bank) debuted a new investment product pegged to Bitcoin prices, called a “smart asset.” This asset is issued through Atomyze, Russia’s official tokenization platform, further broadening institutional crypto access.
Russian Interest in Digital Assets Soars
Recent figures released by the Central Bank of Russia highlight the country’s growing engagement in digital assets. In Q1 2025, Russian citizens reportedly held over 827 billion rubles (about $9.2 billion) worth of cryptocurrencies on centralized exchanges. Inflows to Russian crypto platforms surged by 51% during the same period, reaching 7.3 trillion rubles (approximately $81.5 billion).
Currently, Bitcoin commands a dominant 62% share of Russia’s crypto trading volume, followed by Ethereum (ETH) at 22%. Stablecoins, such as Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC), also play significant roles.
Conclusion: Paving the Way for Crypto Institutionalization in Russia
Sberbank’s official entry into Bitcoin-backed bonds underlines the accelerating integration of blockchain technology and crypto assets in Russia’s financial markets. With regulatory support expanding and major banks exploring diverse crypto-related products, the Russian digital asset landscape is poised for robust growth and innovation.
Source: cointelegraph
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