The plan to unlock Russian assets that are currently blocked abroad centers on easing the interests of individual investors first, and participation in the program will be optional. This approach has been described by the Bank of Russia as a measured beginning intended to protect both market integrity and investor choice while exploring a path toward restoring liquidity for assets held outside Russia.
In the initial phase, the central bank indicated that it would establish clear conditions that enable the possible unblocking of assets for individual investors. The emphasis is on creating a framework that allows those with legitimate holdings to access their stakes under carefully supervised rules, ensuring transparency and proper governance throughout the process.
The press service noted that interested foreign investors may have the option to acquire securities that are currently blocked from Russian holders, using funds stored in designated C accounts. This mechanism aims to provide a controlled channel for reallocation, with the understanding that both Russian and foreign participants will join the process on a voluntary basis and at their own discretion, rather than through compulsion or mandatory transfers.
The Central Bank also stressed that the amount of assets to be unlocked in this early stage will be limited. The intention is to test systems, validate procedures, and monitor market impact before widening access, ensuring that any expansion aligns with broader financial stability goals and regulatory safeguards.
At a recent meeting of the Strategic Development and National Projects Council, Finance Minister Anton Siluanov outlined that the government, together with the Central Bank, has prepared a draft decree to permit the unblocking of a portion of the assets frozen abroad. The proposal outlines governance structures, eligibility criteria, and timelines designed to provide predictable, orderly steps toward returning value to rightful holders while preserving the integrity of international financial commitments.
In conversations at the European Commission and among international financial partners, officials have commented on the scale of sovereign Russian assets frozen within the European Union. The discussions continue with a focus on clear rules, time-bound milestones, and cooperation that respects bilateral arrangements, market rules, and the interests of investors worldwide.