Turkish Crypto Exchanges – Stablecoins Under Fire: Turkey Caps Daily Transfers at $3,000

Turkish Crypto Exchanges – The Turkish Financial Crimes Investigation Board (MASAK) has unveiled new regulations that will reshape the domestic crypto asset landscape. Published in the Official Gazette on June 28, 2025, the updated MASAK General Communiqué mandates extended waiting periods, transaction limits, and stricter transparency requirements for all crypto exchanges operating in Turkey.

48–72 Hour Holding Period for Crypto Transactions

Under the new rules, any crypto withdrawal, deposit, buy, or swap must undergo a mandatory 48-hour waiting period before execution. For first-time withdrawals, this period extends to 72 hours to enhance anti-money laundering (AML) safeguards.

Daily and Monthly Transfer Caps on Stablecoins

Transfers of stablecoins—assets pegged to fiat currencies—are now limited to US $3,000 per day and US $50,000 per month when moving to another platform. These caps may double to $6,000 daily and $100,000 monthly if specific security measures are implemented by the platform.

Mandatory Transaction Descriptions

Every crypto transfer must include a minimum 20-character explanation from the user. Platforms are also required to collect and periodically verify customers’ identity documents and proof of transaction origin to enhance AML compliance.

Exemptions for Liquidity Providers and Arbitrage Trading

Operations classified as liquidity provision, market-making, or arbitrage may be exempted from waiting periods and caps — but only with board-level approval. Platforms must continuously monitor these transactions and revoke exemptions immediately if they suspect misuse.

Enforcement and Legal Consequences

All regulated platforms and custodial services must comply or face penalties under Law No. 5549 on Prevention of Laundering Proceeds of Crime. These rules took effect immediately upon publication in the Official Gazette.

Why This Matters

In a global context of increasing AML scrutiny, Turkey’s toughened rules reflect an international push for transparency in the crypto sector. By introducing built-in delays, transaction limits, and detailed reporting protocols, regulators aim to stem illicit financial flows. This regulatory tightening may also serve as an industry benchmark for other jurisdictions eyeing stronger oversight of digital asset platforms.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Cryptocurrencies and stocks, particularly in micro-cap companies, are subject to significant volatility and risk. Please conduct thorough research before making any investment decisions.