Russia's central bank is on a mission to convince the public that its new digital ruble is the future of money—a convenient tool that will free citizens from bank fees and restrictions. But as the state promotes its new central bank digital currency (CBDC), a closer look reveals a more complicated picture, sparking skepticism among the Russian populace. The Central Bank of Russia (CBR) is framing the digital ruble as the third evolution of the national currency, following cash and bank deposits. Alla Bakina, Director of the National Payment System Department at the CBR, has been a key voice in this campaign. ... (full story)