Originally RTS was modeled on NASDAQ's trading and settlement software; in 1998 the exchange went on line with its own in-house system.

The RTSI is a capitalization-weighted composite index calculated based on prices of the 50 most liquid Russian stocks.

The RTS Index (RTSI) reached its highest point at 2,498.10 on 19 May 2008 (closing price: 2,487.92), which was during the global financial crisis of 2008.

The main principles of trading on the classical market include the ability to enter into transactions, choose currency, method, and timing of settlements.

The RTS Index is calculated based on quotes for 50 securities of the most capitalized Russian companies.

In March 2008, the Da Vinci Capital fund managed by Oleg Jelesko invested in the RTS Exchange.

In addition, the team from Da Vinci Capital was directly involved in negotiations for a merger with the Moscow Interbank Currency Exchange (MICEX).

Settlements for transactions concluded during this period are made during the intermediate clearing session from 14:00 to 14:03 MSK the next trading day.

Currently, the traded commodities on ETS include wheat, rye, barley, and sunflower seeds.