Russian bank Sberbank is evaluating cryptocurrency-backed loans for 2026.

• Sberbank prepares loans secured by regulated cryptocurrencies.
• Russia is structuring its financial market with digital assets by 2026.
• Banks expand the use of cryptocurrencies beyond trading.

Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, is considering creating cryptocurrency-backed credit lines, in an initiative aligned with the advancement of the regulatory framework expected to come into effect in mid-2026. This move reflects the growing interest of the Russian banking sector in incorporating digital assets into traditional financial services.

Representatives linked to the institution indicated that the bank is willing to cooperate with regulatory bodies in building the necessary infrastructure to enable this type of financing. The proposal involves the use of cryptocurrencies as collateral in credit operations, expanding the role of these assets in the financial system beyond buying and selling transactions.

In recent months, Sberbank has accelerated its activity in the digital asset segment by launching more than 160 tokenized instruments. These products include structures linked to real estate, oil, and various commodities, signaling a strategy focused on diversifying investments under models compatible with domestic regulations.

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The bank is also working on developing blockchain-based platforms, as well as smart contract solutions focused on structured investments. The intention is to offer technological support for operations in regulated markets and to act as a liquidity provider as soon as legislation allows full integration with authorized exchanges.

The Moscow and St. Petersburg stock exchanges have already declared that they are technically prepared to begin regulated cryptocurrency trading. The new model foresees clear distinctions between qualified and non-qualified investors, with specific exposure limits and types of tokens permitted to the general public.

For investors deemed qualified, access will be expanded, provided they meet requirements such as knowledge tests. Even so, authorities maintain important restrictions, including a permanent ban on anonymous tokens, reinforcing the focus on transparency and traceability of operations.

Data from the period between July 2024 and June 2025 indicate that Russia moved approximately US$376,3 billion in cryptocurrency transactions, surpassing the United Kingdom and taking the European lead in trading volume. This growth helps explain the increasing institutional interest in the sector.

In addition to credit and trading, Russian authorities are evaluating cryptocurrency mining as an export-linked activity, considering its contribution to the inflow of foreign currency. The complete legislation is expected to come into effect by July 1, 2026, with sanctions for illegal intermediation planned from 2027 onwards, aligning Sberbank's plans with the national strategy for the regulated integration of cryptocurrencies into the financial system.