Sberbank to Offer Crypto-Backed Corporate Loans Under New Russian Law

Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, has announced plans to offer corporate loans secured by Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the Tether USDT stablecoin, a move that aligns with the country's new digital asset regulations set to take effect on September 1, 2026. The bank's Deputy Chairman, Anatoly Popov, confirmed the initiative ahead of the Eastern Economic Forum, stating that Sberbank is prepared to adapt its products once the regulatory framework is fully in force. The bank will initially focus on Bitcoin as collateral, with Ethereum and USDT to be added only after the Bank of Russia approves them for public circulation.