Heard Russia now offers business loans backed by bitcoin? Sovcombank just jumped in after Sberbank. 23% interest rate, 50% loan-to-value, up to two years repayment. Requirements: registered Russian entity, one year in business, clean tax filings, and BTC in your wallet.
Makes sense on paper. Bitcoin crashed nearly 50% from its $125k October 2025 peak to ~$65k now. Miners and holders don't want to sell the dip—this gives liquidity without dumping coins. But let's be real: this isn't about "business development." It's a liquidity hack for those who missed the exit.
Here's the catch. You pledge 50 BTC for a 10M RUB loan. Market drops 15% in a week—your collateral no longer covers the debt. Bank demands top-up or starts liquidation. With BTC swinging 10% in a day, that margin call could hit before lunch.
Yes, Russia's updating crypto laws—by July 2026, digital assets become "monetary assets," not just "property." But today? Banks protect themselves with brutal terms: 23% rates, strict reporting, one-year operational history. They offload volatility risk straight onto you.
My take: this loan is a crutch for indecision. If you truly believe in BTC's rebound—why borrow at 23%? If you don't believe—why not sell now and avoid the stress?
Would you take a 23% loan against your bitcoin in today's market—or is that just gambling with borrowed money?