Cryptocurrency Trends Shift Dramatically Among Young EU Investors
A new report from Morgan Stanley paints a surprising picture of crypto ownership in Europe—especially among younger investors. Bitcoin and Ethereum, once the clear favorites, have lost ground fast. Meanwhile, XRP, which barely registered a few years ago, is now gaining traction.
The numbers are stark. Back in 2022, 63% of young EU interns surveyed held Bitcoin. Now? Just 12%. Ethereum’s drop is just as sharp, falling from 60% ownership to a mere 7%. And it’s not just that fewer young investors are buying—more are stepping away entirely. A full 82% said they don’t own any crypto at all, up from 69% in 2024.
Why the Sudden Drop?
There’s no single reason, but a few things stand out. For one, the crypto market’s volatility has worn thin for some. After years of hype and crashes, younger investors might just be tired of the rollercoaster. Regulatory uncertainty hasn’t helped either—Bitcoin and Ethereum have faced scrutiny, and that’s likely made some hesitant.
Then there’s XRP. While other cryptos slumped, its ownership actually climbed, from zero to 5%. That might not sound like much, but it’s the only green in a sea of red. Analysts point to two factors: clearer regulations around XRP compared to its rivals, and a major price surge late in 2024 that put it in the spotlight.
What’s Next for Crypto in Europe?
It’s hard to say. Trends in crypto move fast, and today’s losers could bounce back tomorrow. But for now, the shift away from Bitcoin and Ethereum is hard to ignore. Maybe it’s a sign of broader skepticism, or maybe it’s just a temporary lull.
One thing’s clear, though—young investors aren’t as all-in on crypto as they used to be. Whether that’s a blip or the start of something bigger, we’ll have to wait and see.
*This isn’t investment advice, just a look at the numbers.
