The world of finance is undergoing a quiet revolution. Despite market downturns and widespread skepticism in recent years, a growing number of Americans are turning to digital assets as a path toward financial empowerment. According to a recent survey conducted by Morning Consult and commissioned by Coinbase, optimism around cryptocurrency remains strong — especially among younger generations and underrepresented communities.
This shift isn’t just about investment trends; it reflects deeper dissatisfaction with the traditional financial system and a desire for more inclusive, transparent alternatives. Let’s explore what this data reveals about public sentiment, future adoption plans, and the evolving role of crypto in everyday life.
Growing Distrust in Traditional Finance Fuels Crypto Interest
A striking 80% of U.S. adults express frustration with financial inequality, believing the current system favors those with powerful connections or wealth. Even more telling, 67% agree that the financial system needs major reform or a complete overhaul, while only 4% believe no changes are necessary.
When asked to describe the global financial system in one word, respondents most commonly used:
- "Expensive" (34%)
- "Unfair" (30%)
- "Confusing" (30%)
This widespread disillusionment is a key driver behind rising interest in decentralized finance and blockchain technology. As trust in legacy institutions erodes, many Americans see cryptocurrency not just as an asset class, but as a potential solution to systemic inequities.
👉 Discover how secure platforms are shaping the future of digital finance.
Crypto Ownership Is Rising — And So Is Future Intent
Today, 20% of American adults already own at least one type of digital asset, signaling a significant foothold in mainstream finance. But even more telling is future intent: nearly one-third (29%) plan to buy, sell, or trade cryptocurrency within the next 12 months.
That translates to approximately:
- 52.3 million current crypto owners
- 75.5 million Americans expected to trade crypto in the next year
These figures suggest sustained demand and growing confidence in digital assets as viable tools for wealth building and financial participation.
Younger Generations Lead the Charge
The generational divide in crypto adoption is clear — and decisive. Gen Z (ages 18–25) leads in ownership at 36%, followed closely by millennials at 30%. These groups don’t just own crypto — they believe in its long-term value.
In fact:
- 54% of Gen Z adults
- 55% of millennials
...agree that “cryptocurrency and blockchain are the future.”
Additionally:
- 27% of Gen Z
- 21% of millennials
...considered opening an account on a crypto exchange in the past year alone.
This enthusiasm isn’t fleeting. It reflects a fundamental shift in how younger Americans view money, technology, and access to opportunity.
Broad Support Across Racial and Ethnic Communities
Crypto’s appeal extends beyond age — it’s also reshaping financial inclusion across racial lines. The survey found that Black and Hispanic adults are more likely than white adults to own cryptocurrency, indicating higher engagement from historically underserved populations.
More importantly:
- Most Black and Hispanic crypto holders plan to continue trading in the next year
- They express greater optimism about crypto’s future
- They are more likely to view blockchain as a transformative force
For many in these communities, crypto isn’t just speculation — it’s seen as a tool for economic mobility and independence from traditional gatekeepers.
Political Consensus in a Divided Nation
In an era of deep political polarization, cryptocurrency stands out as a rare area of bipartisan alignment.
The survey revealed minimal partisan differences in crypto sentiment:
- 22% of Democrats, 18% of Republicans, and 22% of independents currently own crypto
- 32% of Democrats, 28% of Republicans, and 28% of independents plan to trade in the next year
Even views on crypto’s long-term potential show similar patterns across party lines. This suggests that support for digital assets transcends ideology — driven instead by practical concerns about access, fairness, and innovation.
Trust in Platforms Is Key to Adoption
While interest is high, trust remains a critical barrier. When asked what matters most when investing in crypto, 67% of Americans said having a trustworthy, secure platform is essential.
Perception directly influences behavior:
Among those who believe exchanges are safe:
- 70% agree that crypto and blockchain are the future
- 61% plan to buy or trade within 12 months
This highlights a crucial insight: mass adoption won’t happen through hype alone. It requires robust security, transparency, and user education.
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The Road Ahead: Why 65% Believe Better Days Are Coming
Despite Bitcoin still trading over 65% below its all-time high of $68,789, 65% of crypto investors and young Americans believe the best is yet to come.
They see crypto as:
- A valuable long-term investment (69%)
- A force for broad societal benefit (63%)
- A solution to financial inequality (52%)
These beliefs aren’t based on blind faith — they’re rooted in real experiences of access, control, and opportunity that traditional banking often fails to deliver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What percentage of Americans currently own cryptocurrency?
A: Approximately 20% of U.S. adults own at least one digital asset, with higher rates among younger generations like Gen Z (36%) and millennials (30%).
Q: Are people still interested in crypto after the 2022 market crash?
A: Yes. Despite volatility, 29% of Americans plan to buy, sell, or trade crypto in the next 12 months — showing strong ongoing demand.
Q: Why do younger people trust crypto more?
A: Gen Z and millennials view blockchain as innovative and inclusive. Many see it as a fairer alternative to traditional finance, which they perceive as outdated and unequal.
Q: Is crypto popular across different racial groups?
A: Yes. Black and Hispanic adults show higher ownership rates than white adults and express stronger optimism about crypto’s future role in financial empowerment.
Q: Does political affiliation affect crypto views?
A: Surprisingly little. Support for crypto spans Democrats, Republicans, and independents, suggesting broad cross-party appeal based on practical benefits rather than ideology.
Q: How important is platform security for new investors?
A: Extremely. 67% say a secure, trustworthy platform is crucial. Those who trust exchanges are far more likely to invest — proving that safety builds confidence.
The message is clear: crypto is no longer niche. From Gen Z students to working families in underserved communities, millions see digital assets as part of their financial future.
With trust-building efforts, improved education, and reliable infrastructure, the next wave of adoption could redefine who has access to wealth-building tools — and why it matters.
👉 See how the next generation is building financial freedom through blockchain innovation.