How to Formalize Relations with Investors When Accepting Funds in Cryptocurrency?

Pursuant to Part 5 of Article 14 of Federal Law No. 259-FZ, the use of digital currency as a means of payment is prohibited within the territory of the Russian Federation. This means that a company cannot legally accept cryptocurrency from investors in exchange for tokens, services, or any property rights, including in the context of investment fundraising. Therefore, formalizing relations with investors through the acceptance of cryptocurrency is not possible, even if such contributions are voluntary or involve technically organized sales of digital assets. Such actions would constitute a violation of applicable law. If a company intends to raise funds within the framework of Russian law, it should utilize the mechanisms for issuing digital financial assets (DFAs) or utility digital rights (UDRs) through officially registered platforms, and the acceptance of funds is permitted only in rubles or another legal form approved by the relevant regulator.