Decreasing US Investor Interest in Crypto Assets

According to a study by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), US investors are showing less interest in purchasing cryptocurrencies, correlating with a decline in overall risk-taking behavior.

FINRA reported on Thursday that while the percentage of crypto investors remained stable between 2021 and 2024 at 27%, the proportion considering new or additional crypto purchases dropped from 33% in 2021 to 26% in 2024.

The industry regulator also found that individuals exhibiting “high levels of investment risk” decreased by four percentage points, settling at 8% between 2021 and 2024. Notably, investors under 35 experienced the most significant reduction, with their risk appetite falling nine percentage points to 15%.

Historically, crypto investments surge during periods of macroeconomic optimism. However, current uncertainties surrounding interest rates, inflation, and overall economic stability have likely prompted investors to seek refuge in traditionally safer assets.

Crypto: Perceived Risk vs. Financial Goals

FINRA's study, conducted between July and December 2024, surveyed 2,861 US investors and 25,539 adults state-by-state online. It revealed that 66% of respondents now consider crypto a risky investment, up from 58% in 2021.

Interestingly, a third of investors still believe that taking substantial risks is necessary to achieve their financial objectives. This sentiment is even more prevalent among those aged 35 and under, with 50% agreeing with this statement.

Approximately 13% of investors, including nearly one-third of individuals under 25, also admitted to investing in meme stocks and other viral investment trends.

Slowing Influx of New Investors

The rate at which new investors are entering the market has also slowed compared to 2021. Only 8% of investors reported joining the market within the two years leading up to 2024, compared to 21% in 2021.

“The influx of younger investors who entered the market early in the pandemic, as reported in the 2021 NFCS, has reversed as the pandemic subsided, bringing the share of US adults under 35 who invest back down to the 2018 level,” FINRA stated.

Overall, FINRA concluded that the findings suggest a “modest trend toward more cautious attitudes and behaviors” compared to the 2021 survey.


Risk Warning: this article represents only the author’s views and is for reference only. It does not constitute investment advice or financial guidance, nor does it represent the stance of the Markets.com platform.When considering shares, indices, forex (foreign exchange) and commodities for trading and price predictions, remember that trading CFDs involves a significant degree of risk and could result in capital loss.Past performance is not indicative of any future results. This information is provided for informative purposes only and should not be construed to be investment advice. Trading cryptocurrency CFDs and spread bets is restricted for all UK retail clients. 

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