Russia is taking a major step forward by institutionalizing and regulating large-scale Bitcoin mining, reflecting a deliberate strategic evolution in its cryptocurrency approach.
**Main highlights of this development**:
- **First regulated mining investment fund launched** — Leading Russian brokerage Finam has successfully registered the nation's inaugural cryptocurrency mining investment fund with the Bank of Russia (announced February 16, 2026). Shares are expected to begin trading shortly on the Moscow Exchange, primarily for qualified investors. The fund channels capital into industrial-scale operations—especially gas-powered setups in areas like Mordovia—to minimize energy expenses and deliver strong returns (with projections of up to **40%** in dollar terms starting next year). This lets investors tap into mining profits without handling equipment or directly owning crypto.
- **Shift from informal to fully regulated sector** — Mining was officially legalized in August 2024 (taking effect November 2024), moving it from a largely unregulated space to a registered, taxable industry supervised by bodies such as the Ministry of Digital Development and tax authorities. Compliant operations can now function transparently, while unregistered or excessive energy-consuming activities face tighter restrictions and potential penalties.
- **Growing financial sector support** — Banks are getting involved too: Sovcombank rolled out Bitcoin-backed loans for miners and businesses in early February 2026 (claiming to be the first major lender to do so publicly), enabling liquidity access without liquidating BTC holdings. Sberbank had earlier piloted similar crypto-secured lending in late 2025. These initiatives integrate miners more deeply into mainstream banking.
- **Viewed as a national industrial advantage** — Policymakers see mining as a smart way to transform Russia's plentiful low-cost energy (natural gas, hydro, etc.) into Bitcoin, creating a sanctions-resistant export mechanism and alternative revenue stream. With Russia already commanding a notable portion of global hashrate (recent estimates 11–16%), scaling institutional participation could further cement its influence in the Bitcoin ecosystem.
- **Part of a wider crypto liberalization in 2026** — This fits into broader reforms: upcoming rules for trading, custody, simplified exchange licensing, tax alignment for digital assets, and tiered access (limited for ordinary investors, broader for qualified ones). Domestic payments in crypto remain off-limits, but the emphasis is on institutional, export-focused, and infrastructure-building activities.
**In summary**: By channeling institutional money into regulated mining, Russia is accelerating state-level engagement with Bitcoin's core infrastructure. In a sanctions-heavy context, this pragmatic strategy leverages energy surpluses to build economic and geopolitical resilience—potentially shifting global mining power balances over time.
Turning excess power into digital gold: a calculated move for the long haul.
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