Catenaa, Monday, December 07, 2025-Russia’s second largest bank VTB plans to let wealthy clients trade bitcoin and ether next year, becoming the first major lender in the country to move into spot crypto.
VTB Bank will roll out trading to qualified investors with portfolios above $1.3 million or annual income above $650,000, according to Russian outlet RBU.
Bank officials said tests are underway for a small group of high net worth customers.
VTB said wider public access is unlikely. Russia’s stance on digital assets shifted in recent years as sanctions limited access to international finance. Government officials said millions of Russians already use crypto for payments and savings, despite past efforts to restrict trading.
The country has looked to crypto in parts of its oil trade with China and India.
Senior officials at the central bank said lenders will receive permission to operate in crypto under controlled conditions.
VTB said interest among its clients mirrors global patterns. The lender reports a market value near $250 billion and assets above $410 billion. Banks in Europe and Asia have launched similar services, including Standard Chartered, Santander, BBVA and DBS.
