[Russian Banking Giant: Plans to Allow Clients to Trade Bitcoin and Other Cryptocurrencies Directly] Odaily Planet Daily News – Andrey Yatskov, head of brokerage services at Russian banking giant VTB, stated that the bank plans to allow clients to trade 'real' cryptocurrencies directly through their brokerage accounts, rather than being limited to cryptocurrency derivatives. VTB is ready to test the cryptocurrency trading platform with 'super-qualified clients,' defined as those with a portfolio value exceeding $1.3 million or an annual income of over $649,000. The Central Bank of Russia had previously opposed cryptocurrencies, but recent reports indicate it is considering easing restrictions on cryptocurrency trading. (DLnews)