What did the CoinDesk survey reveal about trust in crypto vs banks?

A CoinDesk-commissioned survey found that 65% of U.S. voters trust banks more for financial access, while only 5% prefer crypto. This shows that despite years of growth, crypto still struggles to win mainstream trust.

Why do most Americans still prefer banks over crypto?

Many respondents view banks as safer and more established, especially after years of regulation and consumer protections. Crypto, by contrast, is often associated with volatility, scams, and uncertainty.

How do Americans view crypto’s impact on the economy?

About 60% of respondents believe crypto will be a mostly negative force in the economy. This highlights a perception gap between industry optimism and public sentiment.

Is crypto adoption actually growing despite negative sentiment?

Yes, around 27% of Americans say they have invested in crypto at some point. However, most entered the market years ago, and only 2% hold more than $10,000, suggesting limited large-scale exposure.

How many Americans are still open to investing in crypto?

While 46% say they have no interest in crypto, about 27% of non-investors say they may consider it. This indicates there is still potential for growth if sentiment improves.

How does media coverage affect crypto perception?

More than half of respondents (53%) say recent news has made them view crypto less favourably. Negative headlines around scams and hacks appear to outweigh positive developments.

Which groups are more likely to support crypto?

The survey shows that younger people, men, Republicans, and minority groups are more likely to have positive views of crypto. Older individuals, especially those over 45, are more sceptical.

How does this survey impact the crypto investment outlook?

The data suggests that mass adoption may take longer than expected due to trust issues. For investors, this could mean slower retail inflows unless regulation or usability improves.

Coindesk survey shows Americans favour banks over crypto

Written by Liezl GambePublished May. 4 2026Last Updated May. 4 2026

A new survey commissioned by CoinDesk shows 65% of Americans trust banks over crypto for financial access, while only 5% favour digital assets.

The poll of 1,000 U.S. voters found 60% believe crypto will have a mostly negative impact on the economy, despite 52% acknowledging it is more than a passing trend.

About 27% of respondents said they have invested in crypto, though only 2% hold more than $10,000 in digital assets, highlighting limited high-value exposure.

The findings come as policymakers debate the Digital Asset Market Clarity Act, with banks arguing that stablecoins could compete with traditional deposits and disrupt lending markets.

Public sentiment appears to be worsening, with 53% of respondents saying recent media coverage has made them view crypto less favourably.

Around 46% of Americans say they have no interest in crypto, while 27% of non-investors remain open to entering the market, suggesting potential but uncertain growth.

Distrust is highest among older demographics, while younger users, men, and minority groups show relatively stronger support for digital assets.

The survey also found 55% of respondents believe the risks of artificial intelligence outweigh its benefits, underscoring broader scepticism toward emerging technologies.