Surge in Cryptocurrency Adoption Among Younger Generations, Especially in Europe

Introduction

Cryptocurrency adoption continues to rise, showing significant growth across various regions, particularly in Europe. A recent survey conducted by Gemini reveals that approximately one in four individuals in the UK, US, and Singapore now own cryptocurrency. The study highlights a growing enthusiasm for digital assets, particularly among younger consumers and those residing in European countries.

European Lead in Crypto Ownership

The survey, administered in the first half of 2025, involved over 7,200 participants from the US, UK, France, Italy, Singapore, and Australia. Results indicate that although cryptocurrency ownership has climbed in all surveyed regions, Europe demonstrates the most substantial increases. In the UK, crypto ownership has surged by 6 percentage points year-over-year, reaching an impressive 25%. France, equally vibrant, saw a rise of 3 points, bringing its ownership level to 21%.

Conversely, growth was modest in Singapore and the US, with ownership increasing by only 2 and 1 percentage points, respectively. Despite this, Singapore boasts the highest ownership rate at 28%, while the US follows closely behind at 22%.

Demographic Shifts: Younger Generations Drive Crypto Investments

The study underscores a pronounced generational divide in cryptocurrency investments. Notably, 52% of Millennials and 48% of Gen Z respondents reported owning or having previously owned cryptocurrency, significantly surpassing the global average of 35%. In stark contrast, older generations—specifically, Gen X and Baby Boomers—show lower ownership rates at 26% and 11%, respectively.

Memecoins: A Gateway to Broader Crypto Engagement

An intriguing finding from the report is the emerging role of memecoins in the broader cryptocurrency landscape. Many new investors have entered the crypto market through memecoins before transitioning to more established cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. Approximately 31% of American investors who possess both memecoins and traditional cryptocurrencies indicated that they bought memecoins as their first investment.

Memecoins have seen substantial growth, with 94% of their owners also possessing other types of cryptocurrencies. France leads in memecoin ownership, with 67% of crypto investors there also investing in these assets. The trend extends to other countries, with notable ownership rates in Singapore (59%), Italy (58%), the UK (57%), and the US (55%).

Spot Crypto ETFs Gaining Popularity

The survey also sheds light on the increasing appeal of spot crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In the US, the percentage of crypto owners investing in ETFs rose to 39%, up from 37% in 2024. This increase demonstrates the growing recognition of these investment vehicles across various regions, including Italy (47%), the UK (41%), and Singapore (40%).

Launched in January 2024, spot crypto ETFs allow investors to gain direct exposure to cryptocurrencies through regulated investment channels, simplifying entry into the crypto market for traditional investors. Within their first month, these ETFs attracted nearly $8 billion in daily trading volume, highlighting the sustained interest from investors.

Political Climate Influences Confidence in Crypto

An essential factor influencing the uptick in crypto adoption is the supportive stance of the Trump administration regarding digital assets. According to the survey, 23% of non-crypto owners in the US reported that initiatives like the proposed Strategic Bitcoin Reserve enhanced their confidence in the cryptocurrency market. This sentiment was echoed by respondents in the UK (21%) and Singapore (19%).

President Trump has advocated for digital currency advancements, proposing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, the establishment of a US Digital Asset Stockpile, and appointing crypto-friendly regulators. His administration’s initiatives aim to strengthen the market for digital assets amid increasing mainstream interest.

Conclusion

As cryptocurrency adoption rises, with notable growth fueled by younger demographics and European nations, the outlook for digital assets appears increasingly promising. With innovative financial products such as spot crypto ETFs gaining traction and the increasing influence of political support, the landscape for cryptocurrencies continues to evolve rapidly, inviting broader participation from both seasoned and new investors alike.

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