US Sanctions

When you hear about US sanctions, government-imposed restrictions that block trade, financial services and asset transfers with designated foreign parties. Also known as American sanctions, they dictate what crypto projects can launch, which exchanges can list, and how investors move money across borders.

One of the biggest forces behind these rules is OFAC compliance, the Office of Foreign Assets Control’s screening process that every crypto platform must run. Cryptocurrency regulations in the US build on OFAC, requiring exchanges to freeze or reject transactions linked to sanctioned addresses. At the same time, crypto exchanges like Kapytal, Changelly Pro or Bitop adjust fee structures and KYC policies to stay on the right side of the law. Finally, blockchain licensing programs such as Dubai VARA or Mexico’s CNBV provide local alternatives, but they still need to respect US sanctions when dealing with US‑based users or assets.

Why It Matters for Crypto Projects

US sanctions influence three core areas: token listings, cross‑border transfers, and investor confidence. First, a token that appears on a sanctioned list is quickly delisted from major exchanges, as seen with several gaming coins that fell under OFAC scrutiny. Second, wallets and DeFi protocols must embed real‑time sanction screens to avoid freezing user funds—otherwise they risk hefty fines. Third, investors look for projects that openly disclose their compliance posture; a clear OFAC policy can be a selling point, while silence can turn capital away.

Because of these pressures, many projects now publish a dedicated compliance page, run regular audits, and integrate third‑party sanction‑screening APIs. Exchanges, on their part, publish “sanctioned‑token” watchlists and automatically block deposits from high‑risk jurisdictions. Licensing bodies, meanwhile, require proof of OFAC checks before granting a crypto‑business licence. The net result is a tighter, more transparent ecosystem where every participant knows the rulebook.

Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that break down how US sanctions intersect with crypto markets, from exchange fee comparisons under sanction regimes to step‑by‑step guides on securing a VARA license while staying compliant. Whether you’re a trader, a project founder, or just curious about the regulatory landscape, the posts ahead give you practical insights and real‑world examples to navigate this complex space.