Sberbank Explores Crypto-Backed Loans Amid Russia’s Regulatory Shift

Russia's largest bank, Sberbank (now rebranded as Sber), is actively developing a framework for cryptocurrency-secured lending. The state-owned financial institution plans to offer ruble loans using digital assets as collateral, signaling a strategic pivot as Moscow softens its stance on crypto regulation.

The MOVE follows Russia's central bank publishing a comprehensive plan for digital asset transactions. Anatoly Popov, Sber's Deputy Chairman, confirmed the bank is working closely with regulators to establish compliant solutions. "We are currently exploring the possibility of cryptocurrency-secured lending," Popov told TASS news agency, adding that operational details may be announced soon.

Sber has already processed over 160 digital asset issuances on its proprietary platform this year, including landmark tokenizations of real estate and oil assets. While Russia's crypto regulatory framework remains nascent, the bank positions itself as an active participant in shaping the country's digital finance infrastructure.