Russia’s digital currency project has moved closer to becoming a reality as the lower chamber of parliament, Gosduma, passed the “digital rouble” bill in its third reading. The document now awaits confirmation from the upper chamber and President Vladimir Putin. The Central Bank of Russia will serve as the primary operator of the CBDC infrastructure, ensuring a secure payment and transfer system. A pilot regime will test the CBDC between 2023 and 2024 before it is made available to all Russian citizens by 2025-27.