Sberbank evaluates ruble loans backed by cryptocurrency under Russia’s 2026 rules

Russian banking group Sberbank is examining the launch of ruble loans secured by cryptocurrency, according to Deputy Chairman Anatoly Popov. The move follows a new regulatory concept from the Central Bank of Russia, which plans to recognize cryptocurrencies and stablecoins as currency assets and broaden access for retail investors by July 1, 2026. Sberbank is also expanding activity on its digital asset platform, where it has supported over 160 issues of digital financial assets, including the country's first real estate and oil tokens.