Anatoly Aksakov, the head of the State Duma’s Financial Market Committee, expressed strong support for the proposal in a statement to the Russian newspaper Izvestia. Aksakov emphasized the importance of the idea, stating,
We will exert maximum effort to pass the law in the first reading in March [2024], and in April-May in the second reading. This way, in the second half of 2024, businesses will be able to conduct cross-border settlements with cryptocurrency legally.
Legalizing Cross-Border Crypto Transactions: A Strategic Move
Aksakov’s endorsement signals Russia’s strategic move to leverage cryptocurrency for cross-border transactions. This initiative aims to provide businesses with a legal framework for conducting international settlements using digital currencies.
SPB Exchange: A Potential Player in Cross-Border Operations
While discussing the proposal, Aksakov did not rule out the possibility of the sanctioned Russian stock exchange, SPB Exchange, acting as a third-party provider in these operations. However, specific details regarding SPB Exchange’s role remain undisclosed.
In early November, Washington targeted SPB Exchange as part of comprehensive measures to restrict Russia’s energy capabilities and combat issues related to sanctions evasion. As Russia seeks alternatives to overcome Western sanctions, exploring cryptocurrency for cross-border transactions emerges as a viable solution.
SPB Exchange’s Crypto Plans: A Pioneer in Russian Trading
In mid-October, reports surfaced that SPB Exchange is poised to list a range of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), once the government legalizes the industry. According to Roman Goryunov, the head of SPB Exchange, the platform aims to become the first in Russia to facilitate crypto trading as soon as a clear regulatory framework for digital currencies is established.
In conclusion, Russia’s proactive approach toward legalizing cross-border cryptocurrency transactions reflects a strategic move to navigate financial restrictions and explore new avenues for international trade. The potential involvement of SPB Exchange adds an interesting dimension to the evolving crypto landscape in Russia.
