The P2P division of the cryptocurrency exchange HTX was awarded the title of "P2P Platform of the Year" at the Blockchain Forum 2026. The conference took place on April 14-15 in Moscow, attracting over 20,000 participants, according to a press release.

Wendy Wang, head of HTX's CIS regional division, participated in a panel discussion titled "2026 Global Expansion Strategy: Emerging Markets vs. Regulated Western Markets."

According to Wang, the crypto industry is shifting from a unified global model to regional development. In the next two to three years, emerging markets, particularly the CIS, are expected to become key growth drivers.

"In the CIS, cryptocurrency is not just an investment asset; it is a tool for cross-border payments and value preservation, which has real demand," Wang noted.

She added that exchanges are evolving from trading platforms into centers for Web3 finance, integrating asset management, yield products, and community governance. Wang believes that platforms with deep localization and user-friendly fiat gateways will gain a competitive edge.

Source: HTX.

According to HTX, in 2025, the platform's net commission income in the CIS grew by 20%, and net capital inflow surged by 94% to $240 million. During the same period, 670,000 new users from the region joined the exchange.

P2P and Regulation in Russia

Tigran Akhunc, head of HTX's P2P division in the CIS, participated in a panel discussion on "The Russian Cryptocurrency Trading Market in 2026." He discussed the Russian authorities' requirements for cryptocurrency exchanges to convert crypto to rubles through organizations registered with the Central Bank.

Source: HTX.

Akhunc stated that the era of unregulated P2P growth is coming to an end, and market demand will shift towards more standardized structures. He noted that HTX is conducting a legal assessment of regulations and adapting its business strategies to meet new requirements.

"While the entry threshold to the market will increase, this will ensure a safer trading environment. The risks of freezing bank accounts will be reduced," Akhunc said.

Source: HTX.

Previously, ForkLog reported that HTX decided to maintain zero fees for P2P makers on ruble transactions amid competitors introducing fees.