A new study by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) shows a decline in the number of investors considering cryptocurrency as a viable investment. According to the 2024 data, just 26% of U.S. investors are thinking about buying crypto — a noticeable dip from 33% in 2021.
This downward trend highlights a shift in sentiment that could reflect changing market conditions, rising regulation, or waning public confidence in digital assets.
Investor Confidence Slips Amid Market Volatility
The crypto market has experienced several ups and downs since 2021. High-profile crashes, bankruptcies of major firms like FTX, and regulatory crackdowns may have made many retail investors more cautious. Compared to the 2021 bull run, where enthusiasm was high, today’s market feels more skeptical and mature.
With traditional markets stabilizing and interest rates rising, some investors are turning to safer options, leaving digital assets on the sidelines.
LATEST: The number of investors considering buying crypto dropped from 33% in 2021 to 26% in 2024, per FINRA study. pic.twitter.com/eOyys2FJ1Q
— Cointelegraph (@Cointelegraph) December 5, 2025
What This Means for the Crypto Market
While 26% still represents a sizable portion of potential investors, the downward trend suggests that crypto needs to rebuild trust. Education, transparency, and stronger regulations could help shift the tide.
For now, however, crypto is facing a challenge: convincing the broader investor base that it remains a valuable and trustworthy asset class in an evolving financial landscape.