Sber to accept USDT, Ether as loan collateral amid new crypto law

This marks a notable shift for a state-backed institution, signaling that Russian banks are moving beyond mere custody into active crypto-backed lending. The inclusion of stablecoins and Ether alongside Bitcoin suggests a pragmatic approach to collateral diversity, though it raises questions about valuation and liquidation risks under Russian law. The real test will be whether other banks follow Sber's lead and how regulators handle cross-border collateral flows. The contrast with the digital ruble's uncertain uptake highlights a potential tension between state-issued digital currency and private crypto assets.