Russia Rules Out Crypto Strategic Reserve, Keeps Focus on Gold and Yuan

• Russia’s Finance Ministry confirms it will not add cryptocurrencies to its National Welfare Fund, citing risk concerns and market volatility.
• Deputy Finance Minister states Russia could reconsider a crypto reserve if it secures 7% to 10% of GDP in liquid, risk-free assets.
• Meanwhile, the U.S. accelerates its crypto reserve strategy, with the White House Crypto Summit gathering industry leaders and government officials.

The Russian Finance Ministry has confirmed that it is not considering adding cryptocurrencies to its national reserves. Despite global discussions on digital asset adoption, Russia remains firm in its stance, maintaining its National Welfare Fund (NWF) structure with 40% gold and 60% Chinese yuan.

Russian Finance Ministry Dismisses Crypto Reserve Plans

Deputy Finance Minister Vladimir Kolychev clarified that no plans exist to alter the fund’s asset composition. When asked about potential adjustments, he simply responded, “No. Gold and yuan.” The ministry also stated that it has not engaged in any discussions regarding the recent cryptocurrency policies of the United States.

Local media reports confirm that Russia does not intend to revise the structure of its National Welfare Fund. As per news agency Interfax, the country remains committed to its current reserve model, citing stability as a primary factor.

Although the cryptocurrency market has experienced significant growth, concerns over volatility and risk continue to deter Russia from incorporating digital assets into its reserves. Kolychev emphasized that price fluctuations in cryptocurrencies make them unsuitable for the country’s current economic strategy.

Condition for Crypto Reserve Inclusion

Despite ruling out an immediate shift, Russia has outlined a possible condition under which it might consider adding digital assets to its reserves. According to Kolychev, if Russia accumulates 7% to 10% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in risk-free, highly liquid assets, the ministry could reconsider integrating cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin into the NWF.

At present, however, Russia remains focused on traditional assets, opting for gold and the yuan to maintain economic stability. The decision aligns with the country’s broader economic policies, prioritizing secure and predictable investments.

While Russia does not rush to actively start creating its reserve currency, the United States is actively preparing for this. President Trump has recently declared his interest in making the United States one of the leaders in the crypto industry, while numerous government agencies have shown considerable interest in digital assets.