The State Duma legalizes cryptocurrencies: recognition of digital assets as property and a new circulation procedure
Today, the State Duma of the Russian Federation adopted a landmark law "On Digital Currency and Digital Rights" immediately in the second and third readings. This document radically changes the legal landscape for cryptocurrencies in Russia. The key innovation is that digital currencies are officially recognized as property. This is not just a formality: such recognition opens the way to full judicial protection of rights to crypto assets, even if the owner has not declared them in advance.
What changes in practice?
The law introduces uniform rules for the circulation of cryptocurrencies. Now, Russians will have the opportunity to legally invest in digital assets through authorized Russian exchanges, brokerage companies, and trust managers. However, for the document to come into force, it must pass the Federation Council and receive the president's signature. After that, the mechanism for legal investments will become a reality.
It is important to emphasize: judicial protection of rights to digital currencies now does not depend on prior declaration. This is a significant step towards reducing legal risks for market participants. At the same time, the law does not legalize anonymous transactions—it only creates a transparent infrastructure for controlled circulation.
My view on the situation
The adoption of this law is a long-awaited signal for the market. Russia is finally choosing regulation over bans. However, we will see the real effect only after the launch of the infrastructure: exchanges and brokers that can operate with cryptocurrencies within the legal framework. For now, investors should closely monitor the regulator's next steps—from licensing details to tax implications. This is a historic moment for the Russian crypto sphere, but the path to full integration of digital assets into the economy is just beginning.