Alderoty: More Americans Own Crypto Than Pet Dogs

Ripple's Chief Legal Officer Stuart Alderoty made a striking observation at the SALT 2026 conference, stating that more Americans own cryptocurrency than pet dogs. This comparison highlights the growing mainstream adoption of digital assets in everyday life.

According to The Block, this remark underscores the increasing economic significance of cryptocurrencies and their integration into American financial life. While exact figures vary, surveys consistently show a significant portion of the U.S. population has engaged with digital assets.

The 2023 Federal Reserve report indicated that about 18% of American adults had used cryptocurrency, whereas the American Pet Products Association estimated that around 44% of households own dogs. This comparison illustrates the broad reach of crypto across demographics and reinforces the narrative that crypto is no longer a fringe activity but a mainstream financial behavior.

The claim arrives at a time when policymakers and regulators are grappling with how to handle digital assets, and it intensifies the pressure on lawmakers to establish sensible regulations ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Crypto ownership translates into investments, spending, and tax implications, driving innovation in financial services as traditional banks and fintechs integrate crypto features.