Russia’s state-owned Sberbank is positioning itself at the forefront of its regulated crypto market, preparing to step in as a market maker and liquidity provider for upcoming digital asset exchanges.
As Russia gears up to launch regulated platforms, Sberbank aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s evolving crypto infrastructure.
Expanding on the bank’s ambitions, Alexander Zozulya, head of global markets at Sberbank, told local media that the bank plans to serve as both a market maker and liquidity provider on these new platforms. These venues will be accessible only to so-called “super-qualified” investors—those permitted to engage in direct cryptocurrency trading under strict eligibility criteria.
Russia’s biggest bank, Sberbank, is stepping in to provide liquidity for regulated crypto markets.
They’ll act as a market maker — helping trades flow smoother for institutional players.
Right now it’s limited to pros, but this is a big move in a country that’s been cautious on… pic.twitter.com/8fzGE7jSuc— DeFi_Certified (@DickensonAu) May 27, 2025
The central bank is also moving to lay the regulatory groundwork for this ecosystem. Speaking at a recent conference, Bank of Russia Governor Elvira Nabiullina emphasized that direct crypto investments would require updated regulations and dedicated infrastructure. Under the proposed rules, only investors holding over 100 million rubles (approximately $1.25 million) in securities and deposits or earning more than 50 million rubles (around $625,000) in the past year would qualify.
Sberbank plans to offer crypto-linked investment products that provide market exposure without needing direct asset ownership. Zozulya explained that the bank is considering structured products, digital financial assets, and mutual funds tied to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. This approach would allow investors to benefit from crypto market trends without the complexities and risks of holding the assets themselves.
Zozulya expressed optimism about the market’s potential, noting that the infrastructure for this “new world” of investing is already in place. He said the focus now is on introducing the right financial instruments once the regulatory framework is finalized.
Meanwhile, Russia is also advancing legislation to streamline the legal process for confiscating digital assets. The forthcoming bill aims to strengthen the government’s ability to seize cryptocurrencies and other digital property in criminal cases, reflecting heightened efforts to regulate the digital asset space amid growing concerns over illicit activity.
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