[Russian Ruble Stablecoin A7A5 Plans to Transition into a Long-Term Cross-Border Settlement Tool] According to Deep Tide TechFlow on May 17, as reported by CoinDesk, the Russian ruble-pegged stablecoin A7A5 is transitioning from a sanctions-evasion tool to a long-term settlement tool for trade with Russia. A7A5 executive Oleg Ogienko stated that even if sanctions are lifted, the stablecoin can remain competitive by offering fast, non-dollar cross-border settlements and yields tied to Russia's high interest rates (currently around 13.5%). A7A5's current market capitalization is approximately $500 million. However, its expansion still faces challenges from Western financial infrastructure restrictions and Russia's draft crypto regulations. The draft proposes capping annual investments by non-qualified investors at 300,000 rubles (approximately $4,000). Ogienko revealed that A7A5 is participating in consultations on this regulatory framework. He also noted that Russia's future central bank digital currency (CBDC) will focus more on budget oversight rather than commercial use, and thus will not pose competition to A7A5.