Iran crisis puts the regime's $7.8 billion crypto shadow economy in spotlight

The ongoing crisis in Iran has drawn significant attention to the regime's extensive and clandestine cryptocurrency economy, which is estimated to be worth an impressive $7.8 billion. This situation highlights how the nation is increasingly relying on digital currencies as a means of circumventing international sanctions, gaining financial independence, and sustaining its economy amid mounting challenges. As the Iranian authorities navigate the complexities of both domestic unrest and global scrutiny, the rise of this shadow economy underscores the intricate relationship between politics and technology in a rapidly changing financial landscape. source: https://www.coindesk.com/business/2026/02/28/iran-conflict-throws-the-regime-s-usd7-8-billion-crypto-ecosystem-and-bitcoin-mining-network-into-spotlight