-
Moscow Exchange plans new crypto futures for Solana Ripple and Tron under strict rules for qualified investors.
-
All new crypto derivatives on MOEX will settle in rubles using indices with no delivery of digital assets involved.
-
Russia aims to finish its expanded crypto derivatives framework by 2026 as regulation continues to evolve steadily.
The Moscow Exchange is preparing to widen its crypto derivatives lineup by adding new ruble-denominated futures tied to Solana, Ripple, and Tron. The move signals a deeper push into regulated digital asset products after Bitcoin and Ethereum contracts gained steady institutional use. The exchange plans to roll out the new instruments in stages through 2026, subject to regulatory timelines.
Russia’s largest stock exchange Moscow Exchange, plans to launch $XRP price indices and futures contracts 🙌 pic.twitter.com/1OM7wcV92V
— XRPcryptowolf (@XRPcryptowolf) February 3, 2026
Moscow Exchange Sets 2026 Timeline for New Crypto Futures
The Moscow Exchange intends to launch cash-settled futures linked to newly created indices for Solana, Ripple, and Tron. These indices will track market pricing and serve as the required underlying benchmarks. Russian rules require every futures contract to reference an official index. Consequently, index creation marks the first step before trading can begin.
The exchange already operates Bitcoin and Ethereum indices. Those benchmarks support monthly futures contracts traded on the platform today. The same structure will apply to the upcoming Solana, Ripple, and Tron products. All contracts will settle in rubles, while excluding any physical delivery of digital assets.
Qualified Investor Access and Cash Settlement Rules
Access to the new futures will remain limited to qualified investors. This restriction follows existing guidance from the Bank of Russia. The rules aim to control exposure while allowing institutions to hedge or gain price exposure within regulated limits.
Cash settlement remains mandatory for all crypto derivatives on the exchange. As a result, traders will not receive or deliver cryptocurrencies. Instead, positions will close based on index price movements. This approach mirrors the structure already in place for Bitcoin and Ethereum futures on the platform.
Perpetual Bitcoin and Ethereum Futures Under Review
Beyond new altcoin contracts, the exchange is also exploring perpetual futures linked to Bitcoin and Ethereum. These instruments differ from monthly contracts because they roll daily. Many global crypto exchanges already offer similar products. However, the Moscow Exchange plans to apply the same index-based model used for existing futures.
The exchange may also add options alongside perpetual products. Officials have indicated that these launches will follow a phased schedule. The full crypto derivatives portfolio could reach completion by the end of 2026, pending legal readiness.
Regulatory Shifts Shape Market Expansion
Russia’s regulatory stance on crypto derivatives shifted in May 2025. At that time, authorities allowed financial institutions to offer such products to experienced investors. The Moscow Exchange responded by listing futures tied to the iShares Bitcoin Trust and iShares Ethereum Trust. It also expanded trading based on its internal crypto indices.
Meanwhile, Russia has continued to separate domestic market development from external pressures. Authorities recently classified the crypto exchange WhiteBIT as undesirable. At the same time, lawmakers are drafting broader digital asset rules. Legislators expect these measures to clarify oversight boundaries and support structured market growth by mid-2026.
Disclaimer: The information on this page may come from third parties and does not represent the views or opinions of Gate. The content displayed on this page is for reference only and does not constitute any financial, investment, or legal advice. Gate does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information and shall not be liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Virtual asset investments carry high risks and are subject to significant price volatility. You may lose all of your invested principal. Please fully understand the relevant risks and make prudent decisions based on your own financial situation and risk tolerance. For details, please refer to
Disclaimer.
Related Articles
Bitcoin plunges 24% in the first quarter, its worst performance since 2018
In the first quarter of 2026, the price of Bitcoin fell 23.8%, marking its worst performance since 2018. Starting the year, the price dropped from $87,508 to $66,619, for a cumulative loss of 41.6%. Analysts believe that the main reasons include macroeconomic uncertainty and heightened geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. In addition, ETF outflows have further increased pressure. Despite near-term difficulties, long-term confidence remains solid, and institutional participation trends look positive. The market is watching how developments in the Middle East could affect Bitcoin and overall cryptocurrency market sentiment.
GateNews4m ago
BTC 15-minute up 0.50%: Whale fund inflows and ETF net inflows rebound driving an improvement in spot demand
From 06:30 to 06:45 (UTC) on April 1, 2026, BTC in the short-term period gained a +0.50% return. The price fluctuated within the range of 68,808.1 to 69,224.2 USDT, with an amplitude of 0.60%. During this abnormal movement, market trading volume significantly increased, overall activity rose, and both on-chain and exchange liquidity were greatly enhanced. Although the volatility was limited, market attention was notably heightened.
The main driving force behind this abnormal movement was: a large amount of whale funds began transferring to exchanges. The proportion of whale wallets transferring funds to exchanges sharply increased from 0.34 in January to 0.79 on March 28,
GateNews12m ago
The FBI strikes hard as 10 foreign crypto trading manipulators are indicted
A federal grand jury indicted 10 executives and employees, accusing them of orchestrating a “pump-and-dump” scheme involving allegedly fraudulent transactions with a cross-border backdrop. The investigation was conducted jointly by the FBI and the IRS-CI, uncovering market manipulation activities. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in prison and substantial fines. This case underscores the strength of regulatory enforcement against the crypto market and promotes global cooperation.
GateNews15m ago
BTC breaks through 69,000 USDT, with an intraday gain of 1.18%
Gate News update: On April 1, Bitcoin broke through 69,000 USDT, currently trading at 69,078.25 USDT. The intraday gain is 1.18%.
GateNews18m ago
If the U.S. Military Were to Invade Iran, How Would Bitcoin Fluctuate? Historical Data Reveals Key Patterns
As geopolitical tensions escalate, investors are watching how Bitcoin may perform in a potential Iran war. Historical data shows that market reactions are often limited at the beginning of wars, but Bitcoin typically behaves like a high-risk asset and is susceptible to macroeconomic factors. In the short term, it may fall or stabilize, so investors need to monitor relevant economic indicators and the course of the conflict.
GateNews20m ago
BTC Breaks Through 69000 USDT
Gate News bot message, Gate market display, BTC breaks through 69000 USDT, current price is 69000 USDT.
CryptoRadar23m ago
