OKX Poll: US Crypto Investors Plan Bigger Allocations, Yet Cite a Respect Gap Versus Stocks

A survey by OKX indicates that more than half of American crypto holders intend to boost their crypto exposure over the next five years. At the same time, 42% feel that crypto-based wealth commands less social esteem than a comparable stock portfolio.

Pollfish conducted the research for OKX from October 14 to 18. The poll included 1,932 crypto investors, with 1,000 based in the US and the remainder across four European nations.

US Investors Aim for a Larger Crypto Share

Among US survey participants, 55% anticipate raising their crypto exposure. This group includes 22% who foresee a substantial increase.

Not every American plans to purchase more, however. One-third expect their crypto allocation to remain roughly unchanged, while another third project a moderate rise.

European investors lag on both measures. Across France, Germany, the Netherlands and Poland combined, 47% expect an increase, with 13% planning a significant one.

The disparity is more pronounced among younger groups. Among Americans under 45, 70% expect to expand their crypto share, compared with 57% in Europe.

Roshan Robert, CEO of OKX US, linked the enthusiasm to younger investors.

“US investors are showing that crypto is moving from the margins into the mainstream wealth conversation, with younger investors leading this shift. Crypto is becoming part of how a new generation thinks about building and preserving wealth,” Robert said.

Older Americans remain far more skeptical. Among US Baby Boomers, 65% regard crypto as not at all important for building generational wealth, versus 44% in Europe.

Still, these buying intentions stand in contrast to how American investors perceive others' views of crypto wealth.

Crypto Wealth Faces a Social Discount in the US

When asked about social status, 42% of US respondents stated that crypto wealth garners less respect than an equivalent stock portfolio. In Europe, 28% gave the same response.

Only 34% of US investors view crypto wealth as equally legitimate to wealth built in stocks or real estate. Europe reports the same 34%, so legitimacy alone may not account for the respect gap.

The respect gap persists even as policymakers in Washington work to broaden access. In March, the Labor Department proposed a rule aimed at easing the inclusion of crypto in 401(k) retirement plans.

Meanwhile, American investors also tend to be more secretive about their finances. Only 7% disclose their approximate portfolio value to close friends, compared with 15% in Europe.

Nearly a quarter of Americans — 24% — say they would conceal a sudden windfall to preserve their existing relationships. That rate is double the European figure of 12%.

Overall, US policy and investor demand are both trending toward greater crypto exposure, yet the investors adding it anticipate that their crypto wealth will command less respect than traditional stock holdings.