What does the Coinbase and EY survey say about institutional crypto sentiment?

The survey shows strong bullish sentiment, with 74% of institutional investors expecting crypto prices to rise over the next 12 months. This comes despite recent market volatility, indicating continued confidence in the asset class.

Are institutions increasing their crypto allocations in 2026?

Yes, 73% of surveyed institutions said they plan to increase their exposure to digital assets in 2026. This suggests growing long-term commitment rather than short-term speculation.

Why are institutions still bullish despite market volatility?

Instead of pulling back, institutions are focusing more on risk management, liquidity, and position sizing. This indicates a more mature approach to crypto investing rather than reduced interest.

How are institutions gaining exposure to crypto?

Two-thirds of respondents prefer regulated vehicles such as exchange-traded products (ETPs). This reflects a shift toward safer, compliant access points rather than direct token holdings.

What role does regulation play in institutional adoption?

Regulation is a key driver, with many institutions citing it as a major factor in entering the market. Clear rules help reduce risk and make crypto more accessible to traditional finance players.

What is the significance of the GENIUS Act for crypto?

The GENIUS Act is expected to boost institutional engagement with stablecoins, with 83% of respondents saying it would increase participation. It could provide clearer rules for stablecoin use and adoption.

How are institutions using stablecoins?

Around 85% of institutions are already using or planning to use stablecoins for payments and treasury operations. These include settlement and internal cash management functions.

What is driving interest in tokenisation?

Tokenised real-world assets (RWAs) are gaining traction, with 63% of institutions interested in exposure. Many see tokenisation as a way to modernise financial markets and improve efficiency.

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Institutions bet on crypto rise despite market volatility

Written by Mahathir BayenaPublished Mar 19, 2026, 12:00 AM

Institutional investors remain bullish on crypto, with 74% expecting prices to rise over the next 12 months despite recent market volatility.

A Coinbase and EY-Parthenon survey found 73% of institutions plan to increase their digital asset allocations in 2026, signalling sustained confidence in the sector.

The findings highlight a growing preference for regulated investment vehicles, with two-thirds of respondents favouring exchange-traded products and similar instruments.

“Regulation was cited as a key factor attracting institutional participation,”

The report noted.

Market turbulence has not reduced exposure, but instead shifted focus toward risk management, with 49% of respondents prioritising liquidity and position sizing.

Stablecoins are emerging as a key use case, with 85% of institutions already using or planning to use them for payments and treasury operations.

Regulatory developments are expected to further drive adoption, with 83% saying legislation such as the GENIUS Act would increase institutional engagement with stablecoins.

Interest in tokenisation is also rising, with 63% of investors looking to gain exposure to tokenised assets and 61% expecting it to reshape market structure.

The survey underscores a broader shift toward infrastructure, compliance and real-world use cases as institutions deepen their involvement in digital assets.