Visa’s recent study reveals that 46% of consumers in the Asia Pacific region are likely to use stablecoins within the next five years. This marks a significant increase from the 16% who reported using stablecoins in the past year. However, the survey indicates that only 6% of respondents accurately understand how stablecoins function.
Conducted between June and July 2023, Visa’s Consumer 360 study surveyed 14,250 individuals aged 18 to 65 across 14 markets in the Asia Pacific. Awareness of stablecoins is high, at 66% overall, with the highest levels reported in Hong Kong (84%), India (80%), and Thailand (77%). Despite this awareness, a considerable gap exists in understanding, as 41% of participants mistakenly believe that stablecoins always increase in value. Among those aware of stablecoins but who haven’t used them, 38% cited concerns about fraud or scams as a barrier, while 36% pointed to a lack of understanding.
CoinShares conducted a separate survey of 2,230 affluent investors across the US, UK, France, Germany, Italy, Sweden, and Switzerland. The findings indicate that a majority of these investors own digital assets, with ownership ranging from 54% in Sweden to approximately 70% in the US, UK, Germany, and Switzerland. Investors typically allocate about 10% of their portfolios to digital assets, a figure comparable to allocations in private equity and commodities.
The CoinShares survey highlights that just 6% of respondents consider themselves short-term traders. Of those investing in digital assets, 19% cited speculation as their primary motivation while 41% indicated strategic reasons for their investments. Notably, 85% of investors in five out of seven surveyed markets plan to increase their exposure in 2026, with 64% of US respondents describing themselves as extremely likely to do so.
Trust and Regulation Influencing Adoption
Both surveys emphasize the importance of trust and regulation in the adoption of stablecoins. Visa found that 27% of consumers trust government or central bank-linked entities the most as potential providers of stablecoins, followed closely by banks at 26%. Meanwhile, 79% of affluent investors surveyed by CoinShares support increased regulation in the digital asset market. Additionally, 69% would consider collaborating with a wealth manager who has expertise in cryptocurrencies, while 88% admit they lack the necessary knowledge to invest confidently.
While Visa’s study captures consumer awareness and intent, CoinShares focuses on existing ownership and future investment plans. These studies, however, do not directly correlate, as neither conclusively predicts how capital will flow into stablecoins or whether displayed intentions will translate into actual use.
The findings from these surveys suggest growing consumer interest in stablecoins, though significant gaps remain in understanding and tangible action. The next critical phase will involve monitoring transaction data, including stablecoin balances and payment activities, to assess whether these intentions materialize into measurable activity.
