Bitcoin Withdrawals Spike as Iranians Seek Financial Control
During recent civil unrest in Iran, a notable surge has emerged in users moving Bitcoin from exchanges to private wallets. On-chain analytics reveal a growing preference for self-custody, driven by concerns over financial censorship and instability.
The Rise of Decentralized Financial Behavior
Facing international sanctions and domestic economic strain, many citizens are bypassing traditional banking channels. Instead, they’re leveraging blockchain technology to maintain control over their assets, signaling a shift toward peer-to-peer financial resilience.
- Withdrawal activity sharply increased in Q4 2025
- Over $2 billion in on-chain volume traced to local network activity
- Significant transaction flows linked to sanctioned entities
The pattern suggests a strategic move toward long-term holding and enhanced privacy, with users prioritizing security over liquidity during times of uncertainty.