The Central Bank of Russia (CBR), also known as the Bank of Russia, is the country’s main financial regulator overseeing the banking system, monetary policy, and non-bank financial institutions — including licensed forex dealers. The CBR regulates Russia’s domestic forex market, restricts foreign participation, and maintains transparency through its strict compliance framework.
The Central Bank of Russia (CBR) enforces a well-regulated but closed forex ecosystem where only domestically licensed forex dealers are permitted to operate. Traders should ensure their broker is CBR-approved and avoid unlicensed foreign platforms to stay compliant and protected.
- 50:1 for major currency pairs
- 20:1 or lower for exotic or riskier instruments
- Leverage is adjusted based on instrument volatility and CBR directives
- Licensing and supervision of domestic forex dealers
- Banning unauthorized foreign forex brokers from targeting Russian residents
- Setting leverage caps and conduct standards
- Protecting retail investors via regulatory audits, capital controls, and disclosures
- Visit the CBR Registry of Licensed Entities
- Use the “Forex Dealers” section
- Search by company name or license number
- Must be incorporated in Russia and licensed as a Forex Dealer
- Minimum Charter Capital: RUB 100 million (~$1 million USD)
- Client Fund Segregation: Mandatory use of special accounts
- Qualified Client Onboarding: Brokers must assess client suitability
- Risk Disclosure: Brokers must provide transparent margin risk warnings
- Must use domestic infrastructure and Russian language platforms
Advantages
- Strong capital and conduct standards
- Transparent broker registry and strict monitoring
- Investor fund protections through segregation and reporting
- Prohibits predatory offshore brokers
Limitations
- Foreign brokers cannot legally serve Russian clients
- Strict operational limits on technology and payment systems
- Limited number of licensed dealers compared to global markets
Country
Russia
Established
1990
Contact
+7 495 771 9100
Complaint bodies
Central Bank of Russia (CBR) Financial Ombudsman Service (Russia) for retail financial disputes
Hotline
+7 800 300 3000
Complaint email
Last updated on: March 27, 2025
High Risk Warning : Please note that foreign exchange and other leveraged trading involves significant risk of loss. It is not suitable for all investors and you should make sure you understand the risks involved, seeking independent advice if necessary.