BlackRock’s Bitcoin Futures ETF Debuts on Moscow Exchange Amid Privacy Concerns

BlackRock has launched its Bitcoin Futures ETF—IBIT-9.25 (IBU5)—on the Moscow Exchange, marking a significant milestone for institutional crypto products in Russia. This futures contract is currently available only to qualified investors, highlighting the cautious yet growing interest in digital assets within Russian financial markets.

Trading began on June 4, 2025, and full qualification checks for investors will be enforced starting June 23 with the rollout of the Spectra 8.3 trading system. Brokers are currently tasked with verifying investor eligibility, and detailed contract specifications are now accessible on the exchange’s official site.

While the move opens doors for regulated crypto exposure in Russia, privacy concerns loom large. Olga Tisen, a top legal official at Rosfinmonitoring, warned that crypto anonymity is “a myth.” Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Legal Forum, she revealed that Russian crypto exchanges and brokers are actively cooperating with law enforcement by handing over user data upon request.

This growing divide between institutional adoption and state surveillance underscores the complex landscape of Russia’s evolving crypto market. On one hand, products like BlackRock’s ETF reflect an increasing institutional appetite for digital assets. On the other, heightened scrutiny and potential privacy risks remain a major concern for local investors.

As Russia walks a tightrope between innovation and control, investors must weigh the promise of regulated crypto investments against the realities of government monitoring in a tightly watched financial ecosystem.