Karla Barker 
New Limits on Digital Currency
Iran’s central bank has introduced strict new limits on stablecoin ownership and transactions as the country’s currency continues its downward spiral. The High Council announced that individuals can now only purchase up to $5,000 worth of stablecoins annually, with total holdings capped at $10,000 per person.
Asghar Abolhasani, secretary of the High Council, explained that the decision came during this week’s central bank session and applies to all users on licensed digital platforms. What’s interesting is that they’re giving people a one-month transition period to comply if they’re already holding more than the new limits.
“From now on, the ceiling for purchasing stablecoins is set at $5,000 per user annually, and holdings cannot exceed $10,000,” Abolhasani told state television. He emphasized that current holders have just one month to adjust their positions.
Stablecoins as Financial Lifeline
For many Iranians, stablecoins like Tether’s USDT have become essential financial tools. With the rial hitting record lows—reaching 1,136,500 against the dollar recently—people have been using these dollar-pegged digital assets to protect their savings from hyperinflation.
It’s become a workaround for moving money internationally too, bypassing the formal banking system that’s been crippled by sanctions. The timing of these restrictions coincides with the return of UN sanctions and worsening public confidence in government economic controls.
I think what’s happening here is that authorities are trying to control capital flight while the national currency collapses. Stablecoin usage really took off after conflicts with the United States and Israel earlier this year, becoming one of the few reliable ways for ordinary people to preserve value.
Impact on Small Traders
These new caps will hit thousands of small traders who’ve built livelihoods around cryptocurrency. Many are now worried about potential penalties if they can’t reduce their stablecoin holdings within the one-month grace period.
This isn’t the first time Iran has tried currency controls during economic crises. Previous attempts to restrict access to dollars and gold had limited success in stabilizing the rial. The currency has been steadily depreciating for over a decade, battered by sanctions, economic mismanagement, and persistent inflation.
Meanwhile, the country faces additional challenges beyond currency issues. Energy shortages have led to public protests, with some residents blaming cryptocurrency mining operations for straining power resources. Government officials counter that illegal miners are the real problem and claim they’re taking steps to address the situation.
But honestly, these new stablecoin restrictions feel like another attempt to control what’s becoming increasingly uncontrollable. When people lose faith in their national currency, they find alternatives—and digital dollars have become that alternative for many Iranians. The question is whether these caps will actually help stabilize the economy or just push more activity underground.