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Homepage/News/Iran's Central Bank Allegedly Buys $507M in Tether’s USDT
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Iran's Central Bank Allegedly Buys $507M in Tether’s USDT

BY Solomon M.·2 MIN READ·JANUARY 22, 2026

The Central Bank of Iran reportedly acquired $507 million in Tether’s USDT between April and May 2025 to stabilize the rial, with transactions traced by blockchain analytics firms like Elliptic.

KEY FINDINGS - EVIDENCE LEVEL: MULTI-SOURCE
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2 minEstimated time to read the full report
Key Points:
  • Central Bank of Iran reportedly purchased $507M in USDT in 2025.
  • Aimed to stabilize the rial and facilitate trade amid sanctions.
  • Approximately $37M USDT linked to CBI was frozen by Tether.

This acquisition highlights Iran’s maneuver to bypass sanctions, stabilizing its currency, and indicates growing complexities in cryptocurrency’s role in global financial stability.

Reports indicate the Central Bank of Iran acquired $507M in Tether’s USDT. Blockchain analytics traced the purchases to entities in UAE, using funds to support the rial amid U.S. sanctions.

The Central Bank of Iran allegedly funneled funds through Nobitex before sanctions froze $37M USDT. Elliptic revealed April-May 2025 transactions, unsupported by official CBI confirmation.

“Iran’s Central Bank has reportedly accumulated over $507M in USDT to stabilize its currency and facilitate international trade.” – Elliptic Analyst source

Immediate effects sparked concerns over Iran’s alleged crypto strategy amidst sanctions. Market analysts suggest potential shifts in crypto reliance for national agendas. No impacts noted on broader crypto markets outside USDT.

Financial and regulatory implications emerged as countries scrutinize crypto’s role in bypassing sanctions. Tether‘s response includes the blacklisting of CBI-linked wallets, freezing substantial assets.

Potential long-term outcomes concern increased regulatory oversight and global crypto market reactions. The freeze by Tether highlights vulnerabilities in using USDT for international trade without proper oversight.

Iran’s situation underscores tensions between crypto innovation and regulatory frameworks. Industry observers focus on financial compliance and security as nations navigate crypto’s global integration, needing clear policies and checks.

For more insights, you can follow Coingepe Media on Twitter for crypto insights and updates.

Disclaimer:

The content on The CCPress is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Cryptocurrency investments carry inherent risks. Please consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

SOURCE TRANSPARENCY
  • External Source - Referenced domain: phemex.com
  • External Source - Referenced domain: elliptic.co
  • External Source - Referenced domain: twitter.com
  • Byline - Reported by Solomon M.
  • Coverage Desk - Primary editorial category: News
  • Media Asset - Featured image served from the WordPress media library
Iran's Central Bank Allegedly Buys $507M in Tether’s USDT | TheCCPress