- A new study reveals that young Europeans are increasingly investing in cryptocurrencies despite market volatility.
- Switzerland leads the European market, with nearly a quarter of the population owning crypto assets.
The youngest generations in Europe, particularly Millennials and Generation Z, are demonstrating a remarkable openness to cryptocurrencies. This digital asset class, once considered a niche product, is gaining increasing acceptance and becoming an integral part of their portfolios.
Switzerland is at the forefront of this movement. Nearly a quarter of the Swiss population owns crypto assets, making the country the European market leader. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger generations, with almost a third of Millennials and Generation Z invested in cryptocurrencies.
A similar trend is also observed in other European countries. In Austria, a fifth of the population owns cryptocurrencies, with those under 43 being strongly represented. France follows closely behind: 14% of its citizens have invested in the digital world, including nearly a quarter of Millennials and Generation Z.
The reasons for this enthusiasm are diverse. The potential for high returns remains an important factor, but other aspects also play a role. Independence from traditional financial institutions and the desire for anonymous transactions are also significant drivers of this development.
Eric Demuth, CEO of Bitpanda, a leading European crypto platform, speaks of a
“gradual shift in investment behavior.”
Younger generations are embracing these new asset classes with enthusiasm, while older generations remain more cautious. This trend is confirmed by the influx of new users on the Bitpanda platform, which recorded 500,000 registrations in the second quarter of 2024 alone.
The study by Bitpanda and YouGov highlights a profound change in the European financial landscape. Cryptocurrencies are not a passing fad, but are establishing themselves as an instrument of investment and financial emancipation for an entire generation. This shift points to a future where digital currencies will play an increasingly important role in the European economy.