Crypto Ownership Surges: 20% of Americans Hold Digital Assets
1min read Stuart Alderoty, the Chief Legal Officer at Ripple, recently appeared on CNBC to discuss the findings of what he described as the largest study ever conducted on cryptocurrency holders in the United States. The research, conducted by the National Crypto Advocacy Alliance (NCAA) in partnership with the harris Poll, revealed several significant insights that challenge common perceptions about the crypto market.
Alderoty emphasized that the results indicate cryptocurrency is firmly entering the mainstream, with broad ownership across various demographics. The survey found that one in five American adults, approximately 55 million people, either own or use cryptocurrency. This widespread ownership undermines the notion that digital assets are confined to a specific group, as holders come from all walks of life, including different ages, genders, income levels, and professions.
One of the most surprising findings was the age distribution among crypto holders. Contrary to the perception that crypto is dominated by young investors, more people over the age of 55 own cryptocurrency than those under the age of 25. This data point signals a broader acceptance of digital assets among older generations. Additionally, nearly one-third of crypto holders are women, countering the idea that the space is exclusively dominated by men.
The occupational breakdown of crypto holders also revealed surprising information. Nearly as many individuals working in construction reported holding cryptocurrency as those in the technology sector. This suggests that crypto ownership is not confined to traditionally tech-savvy professions and is penetrating industries not typically associated with digital finance. In terms of income, 26% of households holding crypto earn less than $75,000 annually, further supporting the conclusion that digital assets appeal across various economic groups.
Alderoty referred to these findings as affirming and surprising throughout the CNBC segment. While some results confirmed long-standing beliefs about growing crypto adoption, the comprehensive data provided by the study now gives advocates and policymakers a definitive reference point for discussions about the role of cryptocurrency in the american financial landscape. “Now we have a definitive survey, the largest ever of its kind in the U.S., that folks can now point to and rely on,” Alderoty concluded.
Reacting to the interview, industry voices highlighted the significance of the study. The NCAA’s research stands as a benchmark study, illustrating how cryptocurrency is now integrated across a wide segment of the american public. The findings presented by Alderoty underscore the growing relevance of crypto in financial discourse, regulatory frameworks, and national economic conversations. 
Ask Aime: What impact does the widespread ownership of cryptocurrency have on the traditional financial industry?
