The Adoption of Crypto is Exploding Among Young Europeans

A recent study conducted by Bitpanda and YouGov reveals a marked trend: European younger generations are massively embracing crypto, despite market volatility. This survey, conducted among more than 6,000 individuals in five countries, sheds light on a revolution in investment habits.

Switzerland, European Leader in Crypto Adoption

The Swiss Confederation stands out as the spearhead of crypto adoption in Europe. With 23% of its population holding crypto assets, Switzerland surpasses traditional investments such as ETFs or gold.

This phenomenon is particularly pronounced among Millennials (28-43 years) and Generation Z (18-27 years), with 32% and 29% crypto investors respectively.

This trend is not limited to Switzerland. In Austria, one-fifth of the population owns crypto, with a strong representation of those under 43. France follows closely, with 14% of its citizens having invested in digital assets, nearly a quarter of whom are Millennials and Generation Z.

A Fervor Driven by Various Motivations

The attraction to crypto is not solely about the prospect of quick gains. While high return potential remains the primary motivation (24% of respondents), other factors are also at play. Independence from traditional financial institutions (22%) and the desire for anonymous transactions (21%) are significant drivers of this enthusiasm.

Eric Demuth, CEO of Bitpanda, highlights a “radical change in investment behavior“. Younger generations are eagerly embracing these new asset classes, while their elders remain more cautious. This trend is confirmed by the influx of new users on the Bitpanda platform, which recorded 500,000 sign-ups in the second quarter of 2024 alone.

In short, this study demonstrates a genuine transformation of the European financial landscape. Far from being a mere fad, crypto establishes itself as an investment and financial emancipation tool for an entire generation. This phenomenon, rigorously measured by Bitpanda and YouGov, suggests a lasting transformation of the European economy.