ChainCatcher news: On Tuesday, Russia’s State Duma passed in second and third readings Bill No. 1194918-8 titled “Digital Currency and Digital Rights,” setting rules for the operation of crypto assets and cross-border trade within the country.

The bill establishes a regulatory framework for market participants such as crypto exchanges, brokers, asset management companies, and custodial institutions, and sets operating requirements for industry companies. The bill allows crypto assets to be used for external trade businesses, but payments for goods and services within Russia remain prohibited. The main provisions of the bill are expected to take effect on September 1, 2026, with a transition period until July 1, 2027. The bill still needs to be signed by President Vladimir Putin to become law. $BTC