Crypto adoption is spreading fast across the world. What started as a niche movement is now a global wave. But which countries are really leading the charge? In this article, we dive deep into the numbers. We’ll explore which countries are embracing crypto, why they’re doing it, and what trends you should be watching.
1. India leads global crypto adoption with over 90 million users as of 2024
India is a powerhouse when it comes to crypto adoption. With over 90 million users, it is by far the largest crypto market in terms of volume of users. This explosion in interest is driven by a few key factors.
First, India has a young population that is highly tech-savvy. Second, mobile internet is widely available and affordable. Finally, many people see crypto as a way to invest and protect against inflation.
But there’s more to the story. While regulations around crypto in India remain uncertain, the demand from the population hasn’t slowed down.
Entrepreneurs and investors continue to build crypto startups, often working around banking restrictions or shifting operations to crypto-friendly jurisdictions.
Actionable advice: If you’re looking to enter the Indian crypto market, start by building educational content in regional languages. Many Indian users are new to crypto and are looking for trust.
Partner with local influencers and focus on user-friendly platforms. Consider launching services that allow for easy fiat-to-crypto transactions via UPI or mobile wallets. Also, stay informed on policy updates and be ready to adapt quickly.
2. Vietnam has one of the highest crypto ownership rates at 20.3% of the population
Vietnam has taken a unique position in the crypto space. While it doesn’t have the largest number of users globally, the percentage of the population involved is incredibly high.
Over 20% of Vietnamese citizens own some form of cryptocurrency. This is a result of limited access to traditional banking, high mobile usage, and a strong appetite for alternative investment vehicles.
Crypto is also becoming more acceptable in daily life. Remittances and peer-to-peer payments are often conducted using digital currencies, helping users avoid high transfer fees and banking delays.
The Vietnamese government hasn’t yet introduced tight restrictions, giving the sector room to grow.
Actionable advice: Entrepreneurs looking to reach Vietnamese users should focus on building lightweight mobile apps with low data consumption. Use simple language and include how-to guides, as many users are first-time investors.
Crypto exchanges should prioritize stablecoins and remittance-related features. Partnerships with local mobile payment providers can create trust and ease of use.
3. Nigeria sees 47% of its adult population using or owning cryptocurrency
Nearly half of Nigeria’s adult population is involved in cryptocurrency. That’s a staggering number. With inflation, currency devaluation, and a youthful population, Nigerians have turned to crypto as a form of financial freedom.
Peer-to-peer platforms dominate the market because formal exchanges are restricted by the government.
Nigeria’s use of crypto goes beyond investing. It is used for business transactions, remittances, and even savings. Many freelancers and digital workers get paid in crypto due to global payment limitations.
The community is very active, and platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp are commonly used for trading.
Actionable advice: To make an impact in Nigeria, offer peer-to-peer services with a strong reputation system. Educate users on avoiding scams and use influencer marketing to build credibility.
Ensure your platform works well on low-end smartphones and includes features for stablecoins, especially USDT. Regulatory risks are real, so stay compliant and be ready to switch strategies fast.
4. Thailand ranks high with 12.9% of internet users owning crypto
Thailand has quickly become one of the most crypto-friendly countries in Southeast Asia. With nearly 13% of internet users holding crypto, there’s a broad base of users who are both curious and informed.
Thailand’s government has taken steps to regulate and license exchanges, which has created a safe environment for users to explore digital assets.
The Thai Baht has remained relatively stable, so people here are not using crypto for survival. Instead, it’s used as an investment tool or a way to participate in new digital trends like NFTs and DeFi.
There’s also a growing play-to-earn community, supported by gaming culture.
Actionable advice: To grow in Thailand, consider building DeFi products that are accessible and mobile-friendly. Localization is key. Translate your product, provide Thai-language support, and comply with local regulations.
Look into partnering with licensed exchanges and offer features that work well with Thailand’s digital economy, like NFT marketplaces and gaming-related tokens.
5. USA has over 50 million crypto users, with 16% of adults reporting ownership
The United States is still one of the largest markets by both user base and investment size. Over 50 million Americans hold crypto, and the ecosystem includes everything from casual investors to institutional hedge funds.
Regulation is complicated, but infrastructure is strong, and innovation is steady.
American users are driven by different motivations—some want to invest, others want to use crypto to access DeFi or hedge against traditional markets.
The country also leads in blockchain development, with thousands of startups and developers working on the next generation of applications.
Actionable advice: To stand out in the U.S. market, focus on security, trust, and compliance. Your product must be user-friendly and legally sound. Get proper licensing and hire a U.S.-based compliance officer.
Educational content is still powerful—many Americans are curious but cautious. Work with influencers and legal professionals to communicate trust and transparency.
6. Philippines has 11.6 million crypto users, aided by strong play-to-earn gaming
The Philippines is a unique case where gaming has become a gateway into crypto.
With over 11 million users, the country has embraced digital wallets, NFTs, and play-to-earn platforms. Axie Infinity famously started here, turning gamers into crypto holders.
Crypto has become a household term, with people using it to earn income, send remittances, or invest small amounts. The government is starting to explore formal regulation but hasn’t imposed tight restrictions yet.
Actionable advice: To succeed in the Philippines, build products that combine fun and utility. Gamified interfaces work well. Focus on easy onboarding, especially for mobile users.
Partner with local digital wallets and offer cash-out options via e-wallets or pawnshops. Be visible on platforms like Facebook and TikTok, which dominate the digital space here.
7. Ukraine ranks high in adoption with over 6 million users despite ongoing conflict
Even amidst ongoing conflict and war, Ukraine has shown remarkable resilience in adopting cryptocurrency. Over 6 million Ukrainians are involved in crypto, making it one of the most active countries in Europe.
Crypto has been used for everything—from humanitarian donations to personal savings and business transactions.
During crises, traditional banks often become inaccessible. That’s where crypto steps in, offering a decentralized solution for those in need. It has also become a vital tool for receiving international aid quickly and without delays.
Ukrainian startups are also innovating, especially in blockchain development and DeFi.
Actionable advice: When targeting Ukraine, emphasize speed, security, and stability. Wallets and apps should function offline or with low connectivity. Create platforms that are compatible with multiple currencies and offer multi-language support, especially in Ukrainian and Russian.
If you’re building donation tools, include transparency features to build trust with donors and recipients.
8. Russia sees over 12 million crypto users, especially due to sanctions
Russia’s relationship with crypto is complex but growing. Over 12 million Russians use crypto, and this number surged due to financial sanctions and limitations on international banking.
Russians use crypto for international trade, remittances, and savings. With the Ruble facing fluctuations, crypto provides a sense of control for many citizens.
Despite regulatory ambiguity, mining remains widespread in Russia due to cheap electricity. Some parts of the government are even considering creating national crypto frameworks to facilitate cross-border payments outside traditional systems.
Actionable advice: If entering the Russian market, ensure your platform supports multiple languages, including Russian. Build tools for small business invoicing and B2B payments.
Emphasize privacy and security. Be aware of geopolitical risks and make sure your platform can scale or exit as needed. Local partnerships are crucial for gaining trust in this region.
9. Brazil reports 11% of its population involved in crypto trading
Brazil has embraced cryptocurrency trading as an alternative investment vehicle.
About 11% of the population—more than 20 million people—are active in crypto. High inflation, banking fees, and political instability have pushed Brazilians to look for more control over their finances.
The Brazilian government is working on regulatory frameworks to govern crypto exchanges and wallet providers. Meanwhile, fintech adoption is high, and digital wallets are commonplace.
Brazilians are also showing interest in stablecoins, which offer a hedge against local currency devaluation.
Actionable advice: If you’re eyeing the Brazilian market, focus on stablecoins and easy trading platforms. Partner with local payment processors to allow deposits and withdrawals via PIX, Brazil’s instant payment system.
Offer educational content in Portuguese and simplify your UI for first-time investors. Transparency and ease of use are key.
10. Pakistan has over 9 million crypto users, despite legal gray areas
Pakistan is home to more than 9 million crypto users, despite a lack of clear legal frameworks.
People turn to crypto as a solution to capital restrictions, inflation, and limited banking infrastructure. Many users are freelancers who get paid in crypto or use it for remittances.
The government has issued warnings, but enforcement is inconsistent. As a result, peer-to-peer platforms and mobile-based wallets are popular. The interest keeps growing, even without official endorsement.
Actionable advice: Build lightweight mobile-first apps with clear, local-language instructions. Offer crypto services that allow freelancers to easily convert digital assets into usable fiat.
Focus on privacy and small-scale transaction capabilities. Educate users on safe trading practices and be ready to pivot if regulations tighten suddenly.
11. Turkey has 16% crypto penetration, driven by inflation and devaluation of the Lira
Turkey has one of the highest crypto adoption rates in the world, with 16% of the population engaged in the space. This is largely a result of the Turkish Lira’s decline and ongoing economic instability.
People use crypto as a store of value, especially stablecoins like USDT, which help preserve purchasing power.
Turkish users are also active traders, often engaging in daily or weekly crypto buying and selling. Social media plays a big role, and the community is vocal and informed. Regulatory discussions are ongoing, but crypto remains accessible.
Actionable advice: Platforms targeting Turkey should prioritize stablecoin features and real-time trading. Include educational guides on inflation hedging and dollar-cost averaging.
Make sure your app offers Turkish language support and a responsive customer service team. Partnering with local fintechs can help build credibility quickly.
12. Indonesia ranks high with 11 million+ users and active retail interest
Indonesia is a growing crypto hub in Southeast Asia, with over 11 million users and strong grassroots enthusiasm. The population is young, mobile-first, and eager to adopt new technologies.
Many Indonesians see crypto as a long-term investment and a way to improve financial inclusion.
The government has started regulating crypto as a commodity rather than currency, which allows legal trading under certain rules.
This has opened the door for local exchanges and startups to grow. Interest in NFTs and Web3 is also climbing fast.
Actionable advice: Focus on mobile-first design, gamification, and easy KYC processes. Offer incentives for long-term holding, such as staking. Education should be a core part of your strategy—many users are willing but uninformed.
Support local languages and consider working with Indonesian influencers to reach younger demographics.
13. Argentina sees 17% crypto adoption due to hyperinflation and currency control
Argentina has one of the highest crypto adoption rates in Latin America, with 17% of the population using digital assets. This is primarily driven by severe inflation, currency restrictions, and economic instability.
People use crypto to protect their savings and make cross-border payments.
Stablecoins are particularly popular. They offer Argentinians a way to hold value in dollars, even when access to foreign currency is restricted. Crypto also plays a role in the local gig economy and digital freelance work.
Actionable advice: Build tools that offer easy conversion between pesos and stablecoins.
Highlight savings features and inflation protection. Users are often financially literate but tech-cautious, so UX simplicity matters. Include education on wallet security and build trust through visible customer support channels.
14. South Korea has over 6 million crypto users, especially among young investors
South Korea’s crypto adoption is strong, especially among young professionals. Over 6 million people are involved in digital assets, and the government has implemented detailed regulations.
South Korea is also a hotspot for blockchain innovation, with many startups and exchanges based in the country.
The cultural focus on technology, gaming, and finance makes South Korea a perfect environment for crypto to thrive. Institutional players are starting to explore the space too, making it both retail- and investment-friendly.
Actionable advice: Offer advanced features for experienced traders while keeping onboarding smooth for newcomers. Focus on compliance, transparency, and integrations with local banking systems.
Korean-language support is a must. Gamification, NFTs, and metaverse elements can give your platform an edge in this market.
15. Mexico reports around 4 million crypto users, growing steadily in Latin America
Mexico is seeing steady crypto growth with around 4 million users already participating in the market. The main drivers are financial exclusion, remittance needs, and growing awareness of crypto as a legitimate investment.
A large portion of the population does not have access to traditional banking, and crypto is offering a workaround.
The country also receives over $50 billion in remittances annually. Many are now exploring crypto as a cheaper and faster alternative to traditional money transfer services.
Bitcoin ATMs and mobile wallets are starting to pop up in urban areas, showing an increasing acceptance of crypto tools.
Actionable advice: To gain traction in Mexico, create services that are tightly integrated with local remittance systems. Consider features that make crypto usable at physical points of sale.
Spanish-language onboarding is a must. For trust, align with existing fintechs or remittance companies. Focus on stablecoins and frictionless mobile experiences that can bridge crypto and daily use.
16. Germany leads Europe with over 5 million users and institutional interest
Germany is leading the charge in Europe with more than 5 million users actively engaged in the crypto economy. What’s unique here is that much of the adoption is institutional.
German banks and financial firms are beginning to offer crypto-related services, which boosts credibility and trust.
Germany also benefits from clear and thoughtful regulation. Cryptocurrencies are recognized as financial instruments, and this clarity encourages startups to build with confidence.
The retail crowd is also growing, especially among millennial and Gen Z investors.
Actionable advice: If you’re entering the German market, make compliance your foundation. Invest in strong documentation and auditing. German users value transparency and stability, so features like portfolio tracking and risk assessment are attractive.
Localize your interface to German and lean into educational content about long-term investing rather than speculative trading.
17. UK has 4.3 million crypto users, with strong fintech infrastructure
The UK is one of the most established crypto markets in Europe, with 4.3 million users. Its strength lies in its mature fintech ecosystem and a tech-savvy user base.
London remains a major global finance hub, which has made it easier for crypto to enter the mainstream.
Regulators have taken a cautious but proactive approach. While some advertising has been restricted, major crypto exchanges are still operational, and there’s a clear path to licensing.
UK investors are mostly focused on long-term investments, but DeFi and NFTs are gaining traction too.
Actionable advice: For success in the UK, focus on seamless fiat on-ramps and integrations with bank accounts. Highlight your company’s regulatory adherence.
Users appreciate clean design, responsive support, and detailed performance analytics. Build trust through user testimonials, regular platform audits, and clearly stated security policies.
18. France has over 3 million crypto holders, showing steady annual growth
France is quietly building a robust crypto community. With over 3 million holders, the country is seeing strong year-over-year growth.
Much of the interest is coming from younger adults, freelancers, and small business owners who want more control over their finances.
The French government is supportive of blockchain innovation and has introduced clear licensing pathways for exchanges. Major cities like Paris and Lyon have become hubs for crypto startups and conferences.
Actionable advice: To attract French users, focus on cultural alignment. Offer French-language content, customer support, and marketing. Be present at tech events and forums in France.
Features that simplify tax reporting and asset management are especially valuable. Partnering with licensed financial institutions can increase legitimacy and reach.
19. Japan has over 4 million crypto users, with a strong regulatory framework
Japan is one of the most tightly regulated crypto markets, and that has helped it build a stable, secure ecosystem. Over 4 million users in Japan actively participate in crypto trading or investment.
Regulation ensures that exchanges maintain high standards of operation, giving users confidence.
Crypto in Japan is often seen as a long-term investment rather than a daily trading activity. The country is also heavily involved in innovation around blockchain use cases, particularly in gaming, logistics, and finance.
Actionable advice: To succeed in Japan, prioritize full compliance with local laws. The Japanese Financial Services Agency (FSA) is strict, so having proper licenses and reporting is crucial.
Your platform should be language-localized and culturally sensitive. Highlight security and user protections. Build slow and steady, as trust is earned over time here.
20. Canada sees 13% of adults owning cryptocurrency, around 5 million people
Canada is one of the top Western countries in crypto ownership, with about 13% of adults holding some form of cryptocurrency. That’s roughly 5 million people. The country has a balanced regulatory environment, supportive infrastructure, and high financial literacy.
Many Canadians use crypto as a hedge or an alternative investment.
There’s also growing interest in blockchain applications beyond finance. Several Canadian cities are home to crypto meetups, innovation hubs, and mining operations.
Actionable advice: In Canada, focus on making tax reporting easy and transparent. Users appreciate high-quality support and educational resources. Consider promoting your platform’s security and compliance features.
Add bilingual options, especially French for Quebec. Integrate with e-transfer systems for easy deposits and withdrawals.
21. South Africa has 10.3% of internet users holding crypto
South Africa is a leader in crypto adoption across the African continent.
With over 10% of internet users holding digital assets, the market is driven by a mix of investment interest and necessity. High unemployment and limited access to traditional banking services have made crypto a popular alternative.
People in South Africa are using crypto for peer-to-peer transfers, small business operations, and even charitable donations.
The country also has a vibrant startup scene building blockchain solutions tailored to local needs.
Actionable advice: Mobile-first platforms are essential here. Focus on ease of use and low transaction costs. Partner with community leaders to build trust and run educational campaigns.
Provide strong wallet security, and enable simple fiat on-ramps through local payment systems. Consider adding airtime or bill-pay features as incentives.
22. Colombia reports over 3.1 million crypto users
Colombia has emerged as one of the crypto hotspots in Latin America. With over 3 million users, many Colombians are drawn to crypto for both economic opportunity and financial independence.
Like in other Latin countries, inflation and banking fees have driven people toward stablecoins and Bitcoin.
Colombia is also a regional leader in fintech innovation, and the government has started working on frameworks for crypto regulation. This environment has allowed more businesses and freelancers to comfortably explore digital assets.
Actionable advice: Emphasize ease of access and transaction speed. Work on integrating your platform with Colombia’s local payment infrastructure, like PSE. Spanish-language tutorials and customer service go a long way.
Trust is crucial—be present on social media platforms and offer real-time support where possible.
23. Kenya ranks high with 8.5% crypto ownership and strong mobile money integration
Kenya’s crypto scene is deeply tied to its existing mobile money culture. With 8.5% of internet users already holding crypto, the country’s familiarity with digital finance has made it fertile ground for adoption.
Platforms like M-Pesa have made mobile payments second nature, and crypto is the next step for many.
Crypto is often used for savings, remittances, and even agricultural transactions. Blockchain-based lending is also picking up in rural areas where traditional credit is hard to get.
Actionable advice: Build products that integrate easily with M-Pesa and other local mobile wallets. Focus on USSD and SMS-based solutions for users without smartphones.
Offer tools that make small savings and lending easy. Work with NGOs or community leaders to establish educational hubs in rural areas.
24. Bangladesh has over 2.3 million users despite regulatory challenges
Despite a challenging regulatory climate, crypto use in Bangladesh continues to grow, with over 2 million users participating in the space.
The country’s large freelance workforce often uses crypto to receive payments from abroad, sidestepping banking restrictions and high fees.
Due to limited official support, most activity happens peer-to-peer or through informal groups. That makes trust and education incredibly important for user safety and long-term engagement.
Actionable advice: Focus on privacy and education. Build secure, mobile-friendly wallets and offer content in Bengali. Enable peer-to-peer trading with safeguards like escrow services.
Help freelancers convert crypto to fiat efficiently, and provide clear guidance on how to avoid scams or loss of funds.
25. Malaysia reports 9% crypto adoption rate among internet users
Malaysia has a growing and tech-savvy population, and it shows in the numbers.
Around 9% of internet users in the country are already using or holding crypto. The government has taken a relatively balanced approach, regulating exchanges while still allowing room for innovation.
Malaysia’s Islamic finance sector is also exploring the compatibility of crypto with Sharia law, which opens up more pathways for adoption.
The younger generation is investing in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other altcoins, often using mobile apps and local exchanges.
Actionable advice: If you’re entering Malaysia, make sure your platform is compliant with Sharia guidelines where applicable. Partnering with licensed exchanges and local fintech startups is a smart way to gain credibility.
Offer Malay-language content and guides to appeal to first-time users. Features like automated savings in stablecoins or crypto-linked debit cards can also generate strong interest.
26. Australia sees 18% crypto ownership among adults, one of the highest in the West
Australia’s crypto ownership stands at a remarkable 18%, making it one of the most active Western nations in terms of adoption.
Australians have embraced crypto for its investment potential, and they’re especially open to experimenting with DeFi, staking, and NFTs.
The Australian government has been proactive in setting clear regulations and guidelines for digital assets. This has made it easier for both startups and large financial institutions to participate.
With a high rate of financial literacy, users here expect strong security and seamless interfaces.
Actionable advice: Build high-quality, visually appealing platforms with a strong focus on performance and compliance. Include features like staking rewards, integrated tax reporting, and support for self-managed super funds (SMSFs).
Australians also respond well to customer-centric brands—offer fast support, clear communication, and user education to stand out.
27. Iran has an estimated 3 million crypto users due to sanctions and mining incentives
Iran is a unique case in the crypto world. With an estimated 3 million users, crypto has become a workaround for international sanctions and limited access to global financial services.
The country has even officially recognized crypto mining and allowed industrial-scale operations.
Crypto is used for everything from savings to imports, especially through stablecoins and Bitcoin. While the government has cracked down on certain activities, it continues to explore how to use crypto strategically on a national level.
Actionable advice: If considering Iran, tread carefully and focus on education and resilience tools. Build platforms that work well offline or in low-bandwidth environments.
Highlight secure self-custody solutions, and ensure all content is available in Farsi. Due to global sanctions, avoid direct commercial engagement unless you’re fully compliant with international regulations.
28. Venezuela has high crypto usage due to economic collapse, with 10%+ ownership
In Venezuela, crypto has become more than an investment—it’s a lifeline. With over 10% of the population using digital currencies, crypto offers a way to escape hyperinflation and government currency controls.
Stablecoins, particularly USDT and DAI, are incredibly popular for everyday use.
Crypto is widely used for remittances, business operations, and savings. Some shops even accept digital currency directly. Despite challenges like electricity shortages and political instability, adoption continues to grow due to real necessity.
Actionable advice: Platforms that focus on everyday usability—low fees, mobile optimization, offline wallets—will thrive in Venezuela.
Offer Spanish-language content with local cultural relevance. P2P features and stablecoin access are critical. Education around wallet security and offline transactions can go a long way in building trust and utility.
29. Poland reports over 1 million crypto users, rapidly growing in the EU
Poland has quietly built a strong and growing crypto user base, with over 1 million active users. As part of the EU, it benefits from financial stability, but younger users are turning to crypto for additional investment opportunities.
The country has a solid tech infrastructure, and crypto education is becoming more mainstream.
The government is slowly developing a regulatory framework, and the community remains very active, especially in urban areas like Warsaw and Kraków. Startups are emerging in the DeFi and NFT space, contributing to ecosystem growth.
Actionable advice: Polish users appreciate efficiency and simplicity. Build clean, fast-loading apps that offer multiple language options. Highlight risk management tools and focus on long-term investment features.
Compliance with both local and EU rules is key. Educational webinars, podcasts, and meetups are great ways to grow community engagement in Poland.
30. United Arab Emirates has 11.4% crypto penetration, led by Dubai’s crypto-friendly policies
The UAE, particularly Dubai, has positioned itself as a global hub for crypto innovation. With 11.4% of the population using digital currencies, the country is attracting both institutional players and retail users.
Dubai’s government has introduced crypto-friendly laws, licenses for exchanges, and even plans for a blockchain-powered economy.
Many global crypto companies have opened offices in the UAE to take advantage of its favorable tax and regulatory climate. Crypto is used for investments, business, and increasingly for real estate transactions.
Actionable advice: The UAE values professionalism, reputation, and regulatory clarity. Build a platform that meets global standards and includes features tailored to high-net-worth individuals and institutions.
Offer multilingual support, especially in English and Arabic. Host or sponsor events in the region and partner with local regulators or incubators to grow your brand presence.
wrapping it up
Crypto adoption isn’t a one-size-fits-all story. Every country has its own drivers—some are powered by economic hardship, others by innovation and opportunity.
Whether you’re building a startup, investing in new markets, or just watching the global crypto trend, understanding the regional nuances is key to success.
