Characteristics and Development Trends of the Digital Assets Segment in Modern Practice in Russia and Abroad

The paper aims to identify the key trends and risks associated with the introduction and spread of digital assets, including the digital ruble, in the Russian financial market. This study is timely due to the rapid growth of market capitalization for digital financial assets based on blockchain technology in both international and Russian financial markets, as more and more countries prepare to launch their own national digital currencies. However, there is a dearth of information in scientific and practical literature regarding the prospects, challenges, and risks associated with introducing digital financial assets, including the digital ruble, into Russia. The data for the analysis included official statistics and analytics from the Bank ofRussia and central banks of countries considering introducing digital national currencies. It also included the content of key Russian legislative acts related to digital currencies, as well as examples of the implementation of digital financial assets from Russian and international practices. The main research methods employed were a systematic approach, analysis of fundamental theoretical propositions in the literature, and case analysis. The paper discusses the existing types of digital financial assets, both internationally and in Russia, and assesses the demand for these assets in the Russian capital market, as well as their potential for lending to small and medium-sized businesses. It also considers the most common problems associated with the development of this segment and possible solutions, including regulatory measures. The second part ofthe paper explores the prospects and challenges of introducing a digital ruble into the Russian financial system. It assesses the potential impact of this new currency on the stability of domestic banks and monetary conditions in Russia, including inflation. Future research could focus on quantifying a wide range of risks associated with the introduction of digital financial assets, as well as modelling supply and demand for these assets.