A recent report suggests that the impending launch of the Russian digital ruble is poised to instigate the most significant monetary reforms in the nation since the 1990s. The Central Bank's CBDC project is projected to be a transformative event comparable to the economic shifts witnessed during the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Digital Ruble Pilot and Ambitious Expansion

The "real-world" pilot of the digital ruble commenced in August this year across 11 cities, including Moscow and Yekaterinburg. However, plans for expansion in 2024 are underway, with at least 16 additional banks set to join the pilot. The Ministry of Finance has also expressed intentions to utilize the digital ruble for government transactions in the coming year, aiming for a nationwide rollout no later than 2025.

"Marked Digital Rubles" and Color Coding

Finance Minister Anton Siluanov outlined plans to use the digital ruble for "social payments" and "subsidies." Notably, there is an inclination to implement a system of "coloring" or "marking" digital ruble coins, allowing tracking of fund utilization for specific purposes. This initiative, initially proposed by the Central Bank, could potentially extend to issuing "state budget funds."

Treasury Payments and Social Benefits

Siluanov hinted at piloting Treasury payments, including subsidy transactions, in the initial stages. The ministry may explore the use of "marked" digital rubles for child benefits and pensions in 2024. Proponents argue that such coloring could ensure funds are utilized as intended, preventing diversion towards loans or fines.

Legislative Changes and Opposition

Recent legislative changes allow foreign banks to open digital ruble accounts from January 1, 2025, offering a potential workaround for the SWIFT payment ban. Some lawmakers, however, express dissatisfaction with the retail model and advocate for a wholesale CBDC instead. This push for changes aligns with the evolving landscape of CBDC development globally.

Global Context and Competing Payment Systems

The article also delves into the broader context, highlighting the evolving landscape of CBDCs globally. It mentions the changes in Russian law that permit foreign banks to hold digital rubles, potentially bypassing the SWIFT payment ban. The emergence of the mBridge payment system, involving China, Hong Kong, Thailand, and UAE, is noted as a potential competitor to SWIFT. The collaborative commitment of BRICS nations to local currencies may accelerate the adoption of digital currencies for both domestic and international transactions.