Alfa-Bank to launch regulated crypto services and digital depository in Russia

Russia’s largest private bank, Alfa‑Bank, announced plans to offer cryptocurrency custody and related services to retail and corporate clients once the country’s new crypto legislation is implemented. The bank aims to become a licensed digital depository, building on its existing A‑Token platform that handled 86 token issuances worth RUB 37.5 billion in 2023, about 45 % of Russia’s digital‑financial‑asset volume.

The forthcoming regulatory framework, expected to take effect in the latter half of 2026 (initially cited for July 1 and later for September 1 with detailed rules by November), will allow banks to act as intermediaries and custodians for digital assets. Alfa‑Bank’s rollout is slated for shortly after the law’s entry into force, with full services potentially available by late 2026 and market liquidity developing through 2027. Competitors such as state‑owned Sberbank plan similar offerings with a later launch target, positioning Alfa‑Bank to gain an early‑mover advantage in Russia’s regulated crypto market.