High-Net-Worth Investors Are More Likely to Own Crypto Than the Average American

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The world of investing is undergoing a quiet transformation, and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) are at the forefront of this shift. According to new data from Grayscale Investments® and The Harris Poll, affluent Americans—those with $1 million or more in investible assets—are not only more likely to own cryptocurrency than the general population, but they're also increasingly viewing digital assets as a strategic component of long-term wealth preservation and portfolio diversification.

This growing adoption reflects a broader evolution in how elite investors perceive risk, opportunity, and the future of finance in an era defined by inflation, geopolitical instability, and rapid technological change.

Crypto Ownership Among the Affluent

A striking 26% of high-net-worth Americans currently hold cryptocurrency, surpassing the national average of 20%. But ownership is just one piece of the puzzle. Looking ahead, nearly two in five (38%) HNWIs expect their portfolios to include crypto within the next few years. This forward-looking sentiment is even stronger among younger affluent investors: 53% of those under 50 anticipate holding crypto, compared to 22% of their older counterparts over 50.

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This generational divide highlights a shift in investment philosophy. Younger high-net-worth individuals are not only more tech-savvy but also more open to redefining what constitutes a “safe” or “strategic” asset class in today’s volatile economic climate.

Growing Interest in Bitcoin and Digital Assets

Bitcoin, in particular, continues to capture the attention of wealthy investors. While 35% of high-net-worth Americans under 50 express interest in learning more about Bitcoin as an investment, even 17% of those over 50 are actively seeking greater understanding—suggesting that crypto education is gaining traction across age groups.

This rising curiosity isn't happening in a vacuum. Over one-third (36%) of HNWIs say they’re paying closer attention to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies due to macroeconomic concerns such as inflation, geopolitical tensions, and a weakening U.S. dollar. These factors are prompting a reassessment of traditional safe-haven assets like gold and Treasury bonds.

Moreover, 34% of high-net-worth investors report that the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs has increased their interest in exploring or investing in Bitcoin. The regulatory green light for these exchange-traded products has lent legitimacy to the space, reducing perceived risk and making entry easier through familiar brokerage platforms.

Financial Advisors Are Key to Crypto Adoption

One of the most significant drivers behind crypto adoption among HNWIs is professional guidance. When asked why they purchased cryptocurrency, 42% of high-net-worth owners cited recommendations from financial advisors or professionals—a figure that dwarfs the 27% seen among the general population.

This trend underscores a critical shift: crypto is no longer being treated as a speculative fringe asset. Instead, it's entering mainstream financial planning conversations. Affluent investors are increasingly turning to trusted advisors for insight into digital assets, signaling maturation in both investor behavior and advisory practices.

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Additionally, 40% of high-net-worth investors have discussed crypto with friends, family, or advisors—compared to just 30% of all Americans—indicating higher engagement and comfort levels within elite financial circles.

Regulatory Clarity Remains a Priority

Despite growing interest, regulatory uncertainty continues to influence investment decisions. Nearly half (48%) of HNWIs under 50 and 43% of those over 50 say they’re waiting for clearer policies before investing in crypto.

This cautious optimism reveals a nuanced perspective: while wealthy investors recognize the potential of digital assets, they also demand structure, oversight, and transparency. Their willingness to wait for regulation suggests a preference for long-term stability over short-term gains—a hallmark of sophisticated investing.

For many, the arrival of regulated investment vehicles like spot Bitcoin ETFs represents progress, but broader clarity on taxation, custody rules, and compliance frameworks is still needed to unlock full institutional participation.

Why This Trend Matters for the Future of Finance

The increasing involvement of high-net-worth individuals in crypto signals more than personal preference—it reflects a structural shift in asset allocation strategies. As inflation erodes purchasing power and central banks navigate uncertain monetary paths, digital assets are emerging as a compelling hedge.

HNWIs are often early adopters of new financial trends. Their growing confidence in crypto could catalyze wider institutional acceptance, influence public perception, and accelerate innovation across fintech and wealth management sectors.

Furthermore, as younger affluent investors inherit wealth and assert control over portfolios, their openness to crypto may reshape investment norms for generations to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What defines a high-net-worth individual in this study?
A: In this survey, high-net-worth individuals are American adults with $1 million or more in investible assets who planned to vote in the 2024 presidential election.

Q: Why are wealthy investors more likely to own crypto?
A: High-net-worth investors often have greater access to financial advice, higher risk tolerance, and stronger interest in portfolio diversification—especially during times of economic uncertainty.

Q: How has the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs impacted investor interest?
A: The approval has significantly boosted confidence. 34% of HNWIs report increased interest in Bitcoin due to the availability of regulated ETFs, which offer easier and safer access through traditional brokerage accounts.

Q: Are older wealthy investors interested in crypto too?
A: Yes. While adoption is lower among those over 50, nearly a quarter (23%) express interest in learning more about Bitcoin or using it as an investment—showing growing curiosity across age groups.

Q: What role do financial advisors play in crypto adoption?
A: Advisors are crucial. 42% of HNWIs who own crypto did so because a financial professional recommended it—highlighting the importance of trusted guidance in mainstream adoption.

Q: Is this data reliable and representative?
A: Yes. Conducted by The Harris Poll across three waves from late 2023 to September 2024, the study surveyed 5,368 U.S. voters, including 412 high-net-worth individuals. Data was weighted for accuracy across key demographics.

Core Keywords:

As digital assets continue to mature, their integration into traditional wealth strategies will likely deepen. For forward-thinking investors—both affluent and aspiring—the future of finance is increasingly digital.

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