TechFlow News, February 6: According to a Reuters report, Sberbank—the largest bank in Russia—is preparing to launch cryptocurrency-backed loans for corporate clients. A bank spokesperson stated that this move follows strong interest from corporate customers and noted that the bank is ready to collaborate with the Central Bank of Russia to develop regulatory frameworks.
Earlier, at the end of 2025, Sberbank issued its first pilot cryptocurrency-backed loan to Intelion Data, a mining company, using the company’s mined cryptocurrencies as collateral. Currently, the Central Bank of Russia classifies cryptocurrencies as foreign exchange assets—permitting their purchase and sale but prohibiting their use for domestic payments. Russia plans to finalize the relevant legislative framework by July 1, 2026. Additionally, Sovkombank has already begun issuing such loans.
