While America’s CLARITY Stalls, Russia’s Crypto Market Gets Official Operators

Market Clarity in RussiaThe Bank of Russia has taken a major step toward regulating its crypto market, registering five firms as digital asset operators and four as crypto exchange operators under the Bank of Russia's new rules. This move follows a law signed by President Vladimir Putin in August, creating a formal framework for crypto exchanges, custodians, brokers, and investors. The regulator added Sberbank, VTB Bank, and other firms to its digital depository and crypto exchange registers. ## Crypto Rules Take Shape in RussiaThe approved firms must follow the new transaction rules and bring their operations fully in line with the legislation by September 1, 2027. Sberbank is already preparing products for the new market, with plans to launch its first crypto offerings on December 1st. Bitcoin, Ether, and USDT are expected to be supported at launch. ## US Crypto Market StallsThe US is struggling to clarify its crypto rules, with the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act failing to clear a Senate procedural vote last month. The bill fell short of the 60 needed, due to roadblocks over ethics rules for senior officials with crypto interests. ## Wallet Demand RisesDemand for hardware crypto wallets has risen sharply in Russia, with sales increasing by 92% in value and 84% in units from the same period last year. M.Video and Wildberries reported a clear jump in sales during 2026, with unit sales on M.Video's marketplace climbing 107% and sales by value rising 92%.