The Moscow Exchange (MOEX), Russia's largest securities trading platform, is considering the launch of 24-hour, seven-day-a-week cryptocurrency spot trading. This development was reported on May 15, 2026, marking MOEX's ambition to become a regulated channel for digital assets in the country. The initiative indicates that MOEX is building on its existing cryptocurrency derivatives infrastructure, which currently serves tens of thousands of clients.
It is important to note that this exploratory initiative does not mean a confirmed launch; no dates, asset lists, or trading rules have been announced. The products mentioned in the report primarily focus on spot trading, which involves the direct buying and selling of cryptocurrencies, rather than the index-linked derivatives currently offered by MOEX.
According to unconfirmed information from a financial market source cited in an RBC report, MOEX's planned digital custody model will be similar to that of Russia's national settlement depository, meaning users will not hold wallets directly on the exchange. This structural detail has yet to be independently verified.
MOEX is not starting from scratch in the cryptocurrency space. The exchange's cryptocurrency indices, including Bitcoin and Ethereum, are currently updated every 15 seconds during trading days and additional weekend periods.
Importance of 24/7 Trading Format
The element of 24/7 trading is a key distinction in this matter. Traditional exchanges, including MOEX's current stock and derivatives markets, operate on a fixed schedule and close during nights and weekends. In contrast, cryptocurrency markets on platforms like Binance and Coinbase run continuously.
If MOEX launches continuous spot trading, it will align with the format offered by global crypto-native exchanges. The significance lies not only in the format itself but also in who is providing this service: a national securities exchange operating under the supervision of the Russian central bank, rather than a private offshore platform.
MOEX's trading schedule for 2026 already includes additional weekend periods, indicating that the venue is gradually extending trading hours beyond traditional trading times. The shift from weekend trading to full 24/7 operations would represent a structural change rather than a gradual adjustment.
Russia's Regulatory Trajectory Provides an Opportunity
MOEX's exploratory timing aligns with legislative progress in Moscow. The Russian State Duma has passed the first reading of bill 1174918-8, which outlines regulations related to digital currencies and digital rights, aiming to guide crypto trading through intermediaries approved by the Russian central bank. This framework will maintain the existing ban on crypto payments while legalizing exchange-based trading.
Without this regulatory framework, MOEX cannot offer direct crypto trading, despite being technically prepared. The progress of the bill in subsequent votes will determine whether the exchange's infrastructure investments can translate into actual products.
Details Still to be Confirmed
Several key details remain unconfirmed. MOEX has not disclosed which cryptocurrencies will be supported for trading.