Kazakhstan Blocks 1,100 Unlicensed Crypto Exchanges in Regulatory Crackdown

2026-01-13 15:20:55

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Source: Cryptonews Original Title: Kazakhstan blocks 1,100 unlicensed crypto exchanges in crackdown Original Link: Financial authorities in Kazakhstan have blocked access to more than 1,100 online platforms offering cryptocurrency exchange services over the past year.

The restrictions come as the Central Asian nation works to regulate and expand its legal cryptocurrency market, with stated ambitions to establish itself as a regional digital asset hub.

Kazakhstan’s Regulatory Framework

The blocking of hundreds of unauthorized cryptocurrency exchanges represents part of Kazakhstan’s broader regulatory framework aimed at controlling the digital asset sector within its borders.

Kazakhstan has emerged as a significant player in the global cryptocurrency mining industry in recent years, particularly following China’s crackdown on crypto mining operations in 2021, which prompted many mining companies to relocate.

The country’s regulatory approach appears focused on distinguishing between licensed, legal cryptocurrency operations and unauthorized platforms operating without government approval.

Enforcement Mechanisms

The regulatory measures reflect a growing trend among governments worldwide to establish formal oversight of cryptocurrency markets while attempting to prevent unregulated trading activities. The move fits a broader framework that freezes funds, shuts illegal OTC desks, and channels trading into licensed venues within the Astana financial center.

Official goals include curbing money laundering and consumer risk while building a regulated digital asset hub and exploring a national crypto reserve.

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hodl_therapist

· 21h ago

Oh no, another major crackdown on regulation, this time it's Kazakhstan. 1100 platforms shut down all at once, how many people's coins will be frozen... --- Compliance is truly the best, unregulated exchanges will eventually be doomed. --- Fortunately, I switched to the正规军 (mainstream/legitimate) exchanges early on, and this wave of cleanup feels somewhat satisfying. --- Honestly, the number 1100 sounds outrageous, it seems like half of them are just shell companies. --- Regulations are getting stricter, retail investors' activities are becoming more limited... --- Kazakhstan's move this time is serious, unlike some countries that just talk but don't act. --- That's why I've always advised friends not to touch unknown exchanges. Now you're suffering the consequences. --- Centralized exchanges are all the same, they should have moved entirely to DEXs long ago... --- The true winners will never be banned.

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DAOdreamer

· 21h ago

Kazakhstan has also taken action, now 1,100 unlicensed trading platforms are doomed. --- Another country is starting to tighten regulations, this trend really can't be stopped... --- 1,100? Damn, how many get-rich-quick schemes does that clear out? --- The KZ government is really ruthless, directly shutting down 1,100 platforms. Just think about how uncomfortable those small traders must feel. --- Regulations and bans again. When will we be able to live more comfortably?

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FomoAnxiety

· 22h ago

Another wave of regulatory crackdown, 1,100 unlicensed exchanges directly shut down... Central Asia is also starting to take serious action.

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Layer2Observer