Russia’s main exchange, the Moscow Exchange, has made a significant move by beginning to offer Bitcoin futures contracts. This development symbolizes one of the most notable steps in the country’s gradual embrace of cryptocurrencies.
As reported by market insiders, these innovative contracts are designed to track the price of the BlackRock Bitcoin ETF, which has amassed over $72 billion in assets. This new offering enables local traders to engage in Bitcoin’s price fluctuations without the need to interact with foreign crypto platforms.
Quarterly Contracts Linked To IBIT
The Bitcoin futures will be issued every three months, with the first contracts set to expire in September 2025. It is important to note that only qualified investors will be permitted to trade on the Moscow Exchange. This limitation means that major banks, investment funds, and other approved financial institutions will be the primary participants.
Unfortunately, everyday investors will be excluded from these transactions. The Bank of Russia approved these products in May 2025; however, it has simultaneously cautioned most firms to avoid direct cryptocurrency transactions. The approach appears to focus on allowing significant players to manage risks in a more controlled environment.
Local Settlements Keep Risk In Rubles
The Moscow Exchange’s decision to price the contracts in US dollars, while undertaking settlements in Russian rubles, is a strategic move aimed at mitigating the impact of sudden fluctuations in foreign markets.
This structure allows traders to secure agreements based on Bitcoin’s dollar valuation while receiving payments in their domestic currency. Consequently, this arrangement helps retain capital within Russia while still closely aligning with a global cryptocurrency offering.
Some analysts view this as a prudent compromise, facilitating Russia’s integration into the international cryptocurrency landscape while safeguarding against reliance on overseas platforms.
Moscow Stock Exchange Launches #Bitcoin Futures
Contracts will only be available to qualified investors, with the futures tied to the value of the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF, quoted in US dollars, and settled in Russian rubles. (TASS)
The launch follows Sberbank’s approval… pic.twitter.com/wMTRlK2Y0y
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) June 4, 2025
Bank Of Russia’s Cautious Stance
In a cautious approach, the central bank has sanctioned crypto-linked derivatives for qualified investors, yet it remains reticent about granting widespread access. Most banks and investment entities are advised against facilitating direct Bitcoin trades for their clients.
Instead, they can provide instruments such as these futures, provided they meet qualification criteria. This illustrates a vigilant stance toward digital assets as authorities seek to harness the potential for profit while mitigating associated risks.
By keeping access limited, officials aim to contain any potential issues that could arise from widespread participation.
Sberbank’s New Bitcoin-Linked Bonds
Concurrently, Sberbank, Russia’s largest bank, is developing its own crypto-related product. In the near future, select clients will have the opportunity to purchase structured bonds tied to Bitcoin’s price.
These bonds will also be traded in rubles and will not require cryptocurrency wallets, allowing individuals to speculate on Bitcoin’s performance without needing to open accounts on foreign platforms.
Featured image from Lonely Planet, chart from TradingView
