In its recently published 2025 Global State of Crypto report, Gemini – the renowned cryptocurrency exchange – revealed a significant rise in global crypto ownership, with the United Kingdom emerging as a frontrunner in adoption. Surveying over 7,200 consumers across six nations, the study sheds light on how geopolitical moves, investment products, and cultural trends are reshaping the global crypto landscape.
UK Sees Sharp Uptick in Crypto Adoption
The United Kingdom experienced a remarkable leap in crypto ownership, with adoption rising from 18% in 2024 to 24% in 2025. This 6-point surge places the UK among the top global markets for digital asset engagement, ahead of France and the United States, and second only to Singapore.
France also witnessed growth, moving from 18% to 21%, while the U.S. matched that 21% figure, albeit with more modest year-on-year growth. Singapore continues to lead globally, with crypto ownership climbing from 26% to 28%. These figures reflect an increasingly mainstream interest in crypto assets, driven by expanding awareness, better accessibility, and regulatory clarity.
Strategic Policies Boost Market Confidence
One of the key drivers behind the increased trust in digital assets is policy innovation. In the U.S., former President Donald Trump’s launch of a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve was cited as a significant confidence booster among the population. According to the survey, 23% of U.S. non-crypto owners reported that the policy positively influenced their perception of cryptocurrencies.
This sentiment resonated internationally, with 21% of UK respondents and 19% of Singaporeans echoing increased trust in the wake of the policy announcement. The effect underscores how state-level crypto endorsements can have cross-border influence, legitimising crypto markets and attracting hesitant investors.
Memecoins Open the Door for New Investors
Interestingly, memecoins – often dismissed as speculative or unserious – are acting as a gateway for new investors entering the crypto space. In the U.S., 31% of investors who hold both memecoins and more traditional cryptocurrencies said they started their crypto journey with memecoins. Australia followed closely with 30%, the UK with 28%, and similar patterns were observed in other surveyed countries.
Moreover, 94% of global memecoin holders also own other forms of crypto, suggesting that these assets are not merely fads but stepping stones to broader portfolio diversification.
ETFs Fuel Mainstream Investment
Crypto-backed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are gaining traction as a favoured investment vehicle. In the U.S., 39% of crypto holders now invest in spot crypto ETFs, up from 37% the previous year. Italy leads globally in ETF adoption at 47%, followed by the UK at 41% and Singapore at 40%.
Australia (38%) and France (32%) also reported significant ETF uptake. This trend signals a growing appetite for regulated and structured crypto investment products, which are seen as safer and more accessible for traditional investors entering the space.
A Maturing Market with Global Momentum
Gemini’s survey, conducted between March and April 2025, paints a picture of a rapidly maturing global crypto ecosystem. With rising adoption in key markets, growing trust driven by governmental engagement, and diversified investment avenues, the crypto industry appears poised for broader integration into mainstream finance.
The UK’s standout performance signals not only domestic enthusiasm but also its rising role as a global hub in the digital asset revolution. As more nations refine their policies and embrace innovation, the trend toward wider crypto participation shows no sign of slowing.
