As the world spins faster into the digital age, banks can no longer pretend cryptocurrencies are just a passing fad. The numbers don’t lie. Cryptocurrency ownership in the U.S. has nearly doubled since 2021, with about 28% of adults now holding some form of digital currency. That’s not just a trend; it’s a movement.
Globally, nearly 40 million new users jumped into the crypto pool in the latter half of 2024. And guess what? A solid 14% of non-owners are keen to engage by 2025.
The landscape is changing. Banks, especially in the U.S., are feeling the heat from an evolving regulatory environment. The SEC is giving clearer signals, encouraging institutional players to come to the party. But banks are still waiting for that golden ticket—clear guidelines—to explore deeper into the cryptocurrency waters. Meanwhile, the introduction of crypto ETFs offers a new avenue for institutional investors to gain exposure to the market.
Meanwhile, global changes in regulations promise to make crypto transactions more transparent and secure. With spot Bitcoin ETFs launched in 2024 gaining traction among institutional investors, the demand for digital asset products is only set to grow.
Institutional interest is booming. Major players, like Goldman Sachs, are sniffing around, looking for ways to engage with crypto. Why? Because there’s a demand for safe, regulated products. Advanced trading tools are being crafted to cater to these investors, who are already accessing crypto capabilities through trading desks.
It’s not just about individuals anymore; it’s the big leagues getting involved.
Yet, consumer confidence is a mixed bag. While excitement is building—thanks to Bitcoin’s impressive run—it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. About 40% of crypto owners are still questioning the safety of their assets, reflecting the fact that 40% of cryptocurrency owners lack confidence in the safety and security of the technology.
And let’s not forget the one in five who’ve struggled to access their funds.
Despite the bumps, the momentum is undeniable. By 2025, crypto banking could be the norm. Banks are waking up, slowly rolling out services like trading and custody.
The message is clear: ignore crypto now, and you might as well be living in the Stone Age.
