Moscow Exchange Introduces Bitcoin Index
In a groundbreaking move for the cryptocurrency sector, the Moscow Exchange (MOEX) has announced the introduction of its MOEX Derivatives Market Bitcoin Index (MOEXBTC), set to take effect on June 10, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance the exchange’s cryptocurrency offerings and could allow for the creation of a variety of new financial instruments based on this index.
Index Composition and Methodology
The MOEX has stated that the Bitcoin index will rely on price information from perpetual futures and swaps related to the BTCUSDT trading pair, aggregating data from four prominent cryptocurrency exchanges: Binance, Bybit, OKX, and Bitget. By applying a weighted average method for price calculation, the index aims to provide a more accurate representation of Bitcoin’s market value.
Future Implications
The exchange articulated that this index could eventually become a fundamental asset class for future financial instruments, highlighting the growing importance of cryptocurrency in traditional financial markets. This announcement follows the MOEX’s recent foray into cryptocurrency linking.
Recent Developments and Regulatory Outlook
Just a few days prior, on June 4, the exchange commenced trading Bitcoin Trust ETF futures contracts which cater to qualified investors. According to market participants, there is a robust interest from investors in these new offerings. Furthermore, the Bank of Russia has shown its support for innovation in this regard, having authorized qualified investors to engage with derivative financial products, securities, and digital assets whose returns are tied to cryptocurrency valuation as of May.
Despite this progression, the Bank maintains a cautious approach, continuing to warn financial institutions and clients against direct investments in cryptocurrencies due to their volatile nature.
“The Bank of Russia has shown its support for innovation in this regard, having authorized qualified investors to engage with derivative financial products, securities, and digital assets.”
