Russia plans a broad rollout of the digital ruble in 2025, yet a large portion of the public remains unfamiliar with this new form of the national currency. This finding comes from VCIOM, Russia’s leading public opinion research agency.
VCIOM’s survey reveals that just 15% of respondents are aware of the digital ruble project. Another 55% have heard about it but lack specifics, while 30% say they only learned of the digital ruble from sociologists and research teams.
Many respondents also report uncertainty about why a digital ruble is needed. More than half struggle to articulate its purpose, and those with lower levels of formal education or who primarily watch television tend to be less certain about the currency’s intended uses.
The Central Bank notes that skepticism toward new financial instruments is a natural reaction. It emphasizes that citizens will gain clarity as they see practical benefits and as official outreach and education efforts expand. A structured plan to inform the public is in place, with ongoing efforts to improve understanding and trust.
The digital ruble is described as an electronic version of the state currency issued by the Central Bank of Russia. It represents a third form of money, existing alongside cash and non-cash transactions. All three forms hold equal status, and individuals and companies can choose which form to use. Funds stored in a digital wallet can be used for fast, convenient payments at the user’s discretion.
Earlier this year, the Central Bank opened a test environment to conduct initial digital ruble transactions using accounts held in individuals’ names, marking a preliminary step toward broader real-world testing and eventual public use.