Catenaa, Monday, June 30, 2025- Russia’s central bank digital currency, the digital ruble, will officially launch nationwide on September 1, 2026, following a delay earlier this year that sparked widespread speculation about the future of the project.
The Central Bank of Russia announced Thursday that major commercial banks will begin offering digital ruble transactions next September, with smaller and regional banks expected to follow a year later.
The digital currency had initially been scheduled for rollout on July 1, 2025, but was postponed in March without a clear explanation or new timeline until now.
The sudden delay had raised questions about whether Moscow might abandon its central bank digital currency plans or instead turn to blockchain-based alternatives.
However, the central bank’s renewed commitment, coupled with readiness statements from key institutions, has reaffirmed the state’s push to digitize its monetary system.
VTB Bank said it is fully equipped to handle digital ruble transactions and noted its early involvement in pilot testing. Sovcombank also confirmed its systems would be prepared by the 2026 deadline.
Both banks remain active participants in the ongoing pilot program.
The central bank has submitted legislation to the State Duma to formalize the rollout requirements.
Lawmakers have promoted the digital ruble as a tool for cross-border trade, especially among BRICS countries, and as a workaround for Western sanctions.
Still, concerns persist. Critics argue the system may infringe on privacy and prove difficult to access in rural areas with poor internet coverage.
