Sberbank, Russia’s largest bank, plans to accept Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT as security for loans. Bank deputy chairman Anatoly Popov said this to the TASS news agency.
This facility has not started for everyone yet. It can begin only after Russia’s new rules come into force and the Central Bank of Russia gives permission.
Sberbank loans against Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT What this means in simple words
When a bank gives a loan, it often keeps something as security. This can be a house, a vehicle or gold. If the loan is not repaid, the bank can sell that item and recover its money.
Sberbank now plans to treat some cryptocurrencies in the same way. A company will be able to keep its Bitcoin, Ethereum or USDT with the bank and take a loan in roubles or another ordinary currency. If the loan is repaid on time, the crypto will remain with the company. During the loan period, the bank will keep that crypto safely with itself.
USDT is a stablecoin. Its price is designed to stay close to one US dollar. Bitcoin and Ethereum prices move up and down a lot. That is why the bank also wants a more stable asset like USDT as security.
Who this loan is for Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT
This facility is mainly for companies. It is especially for companies that mine crypto or already hold crypto. With this, a company can get cash without selling its crypto.
The bank has already tested this method. In December 2025, Sberbank gave a loan to a mining company called Intelion Data against Bitcoin. That Bitcoin had been mined by the same company. The bank kept it in its own security system.
When it may start loan
Russia’s new law on digital currency is due to take effect on 1 September 2026. This law will set rules for buying, selling and holding crypto. Using crypto to buy goods in shops inside Russia will still remain banned.
Popov said the bank is already prepared and has experience with crypto. After the law comes fully into force, the bank will adjust its existing loan products to the new rules. Bitcoin may be accepted as security first. Ethereum and USDT will be added only after the central bank allows them for public use.
What else the bank plans to do
Companies that hold crypto will be able to take money from the bank without selling that crypto. For the bank, this is a step towards treating crypto like ordinary security.
It also shows that Russia is trying to bring crypto into the banking system.
Points to keep in mind
Some things are still not clear:
- The central bank will have to allow Ethereum and USDT.
- Crypto is still banned for payments inside Russia.
- How much loan will be given, how much security will be needed, and who can take it has not been explained in detail.
- Popov’s full interview is due on 1 September 2026.
Until the rules and loan terms are fully published, this should be seen only as the bank’s preparation. It is not yet an open product for ordinary people or for every company.
In short, Russia’s largest bank is preparing to accept Bitcoin, Ethereum and USDT as security for loans. The final decision will depend on the new rules and approval from the central bank.
