• 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.

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.