How to Convert Russian ADRs/GDRs to Local Shares?

• Following the war in Ukraine from February 24th onwards, the Russian government decided to remove all listings of firms registered in Russia from foreign exchanges. This translates into Russian ADRs (American Depositary Receipts) or GDRs (Global Depositary Receipts). 
• The most common problem facing investors is how to convert/transfer their Russian ADRs into valid local stocks.
• Non-sanctioned Russian ADRs or GDRs are still viable for converting into local stocks through certain non-Russian client brokerage accounts. Previously, Russian law generally required a Russian custodial (share) account to facilitate the conversion process. 

Not all online, non-Russian brokerages enable the conversions of depositary receipts. Freedom24 is a leading European exchange facilitating this process. 

Using Freedom24 as an example, the procedure for converting looks like this: 

1. Open an account, and include:
   • An identity card or passport 
   • Proof of address, such as a bank statement or utility bill 
   • A selfie (self-photo) 
   • A basic financial profile
   • Your tax ID (taxpayer identification number)
2. Initiate the transfer of securities by emailing the list of securities plus ISINs (international securities identification codes) to the appropriate address; for example, info@freedomfinance.eu
   • Depending on the securities, provide an additional source of income information at the request of the broker
   • Follow the instructions provided by your broker to deposit the assets
3. From the ongoing bank or broker which currently custodies your Russian ADRs or GDRs, submit an outgoing transfer order in favour of Freedom24
4. Convert the newly received ADRs or GDRs to local Russian stocks following the broker’s instructions by the final deadline of December 23rd, depending on each Russian ADR.

To recap, there are four key points to note:

1. Not all brokers can convert Russian ADRs or GDRs to local equivalents
2. For those brokers which can require an outgoing transfer from your existing broker; instructions are provided per broker, but much is done through email (like above)
3. The conversion process no longer requires a Russian broker or custodian
4. The deadline for converting ADRs or GDRs to ordinary shares remains until June 30, 2023.

Below are the major Russian ADRs that can be converted to regular shares with Freedom24:

Convert Gazprom ADRs (OGZPY) to Gazprom Stock

Founded in 1989, Gazprom PJSC is an energy company focusing on geological exploration, production, transportation, storage, processing, and sales of gas and oil and the generation of heat and electric power. The company is a major supplier of gas to Europe, as well as to other international countries.

As announced last May, the Russian energy giant has decided to discontinue its ADR program. As of February 4th, 2023, holders of Gazprom ADRs cannot convert them to ordinary shares or receive payment of sale proceeds if the Depositary sold your shares.

Freedom24 is currently the only major European brokerage to facilitate the conversion of Russian ADRs and GDRs. While we hope for a swift end to the war in Ukraine, we understand some investors historically held positions in major Russian firms, like Gazprom, Rosneft Oil, Mobile Telesystems, and Pao Novatek.

Depositary receipt holders should decide if they need to convert their Russian ADRs to local shares, as Russian companies are obliged to delist their ADRs and stop offering depository programs on foreign exchanges.

The deadline to convert the toxic depositary receipt assets is June 30, depending on your Russian ADR. Failing to convert beyond this point may make it difficult or impossible to redeem the value of your holdings. 

Lastly, it’s important to remember that investments in securities and other financial instruments always involve the risk of losing your capital.

Other FAQs

Who is eligible to request a conversion?

Anybody who could open an account with Freedom24 and send the necessary security details per Freedom24’s instructions.

What is the usual timeframe for the conversion process?

This generally depends upon the current workload of Freedom24 and how quickly you may send the relevant security details. A good rule of thumb for most security transfers is 2-3 weeks, but each account transfer is unique.

What is the deadline to convert Russian ADRs to ordinary shares?

The deadline to convert is June 30, depending on your Russian ADR. Please try to start the conversion process as soon as possible.

Why is it important to convert Russian ADRs and GDRs?

Because if they are not converted, they expire, and you lose your capital. On the other hand, stocks belong to you in perpetuity.

Will I be able to sell the received stock immediately after converting?

No, the stock cannot be sold now as it is kept in Russia’s national depositary. You will be able to sell these stocks when the sanctions are removed from the national depositary.

How to request a conversion of Russian ADR and GDR if I live in the US? 🇺🇸

Since Freedom24 is not available in the US, we suggest that you contact your broker and check if they can proceed with the conversion request.

How to request a conversion of Russian ADR and GDR if I live in the UK? 🇬🇧

Since Freedom24 is not available in the UK, we suggest that you contact your broker and check if they can proceed with the conversion request.