Gen Z Leads the Charge in Cryptocurrency Adoption

A recent report by Gemini, the 2024 State of Crypto, reveals that over half of Gen Z adults have either currently own or have previously owned cryptocurrency. The survey, conducted across five countries, highlights the significant role younger investors play in shaping the future of investment and regulation in the digital asset space.

Gen Z’s Approach to Digital Assets

The report surveyed 6,000 adults in the U.S., U.K., France, Singapore, and Turkey between May and July 2024. Among Gen Z respondents (ages 18-29), 51% reported owning or having previously owned cryptocurrency, compared to 35% of the general population.

Ownership rates were highest in the U.K., where 53% of Gen Z respondents reported holding crypto, compared to 32% of the general population. In Singapore, the rate was 50% for Gen Z and 42% across all age groups. In France, it was 47% for Gen Z and 31% overall.

Crypto ownership involves buying, holding, or trading digital assets like Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH). Many investors view these assets as an alternative to traditional investments such as stocks or bonds.

Gen Z’s Views on Regulation

The survey also examined how Gen Z views cryptocurrency regulation. While 46% of the general population strongly supports increased government oversight, only 31% of Gen Z respondents shared the same view.

This suggests that younger investors may be more comfortable with the current level of regulation or trust the industry to self-regulate. Regulation can provide stability to the market and protect investors from fraud.

Why Gen Z Invests in Crypto

Nearly half of Gen Z respondents (48%) said they invest in cryptocurrency to generate income. Some see it as an opportunity to profit from price fluctuations, similar to stock trading. Others use it as a hedge against inflation, believing that crypto can help protect their wealth in the event of rising costs.

In the U.K., 42% of Gen Z crypto owners said they use digital assets as a hedge against inflation, compared to 32% of all crypto owners in the country. In France, 39% of Gen Z respondents said they invest in crypto for profit, compared to 30% of the general population.

Gen Z’s ETF Interest

The rise of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) is making crypto more accessible. ETFs allow investors to gain exposure to crypto without directly holding the asset. Instead of buying Bitcoin, for example, investors can buy shares of a Bitcoin ETF, which tracks the price of the cryptocurrency.

The survey found that 48% of Gen Z respondents were more likely to invest in crypto because of ETFs. Across all age groups, that figure was 37%.

As more investors, particularly from Gen Z, enter the cryptocurrency market, it’s essential to stay informed about market trends and regulatory developments. Stay up-to-date with the latest news on Global Crypto News.