Crypto ownership stalls as new buyers drop and Bitcoin prices fall

A recent analysis from the Philadelphia Federal Reserve Bank reveals that cryptocurrency ownership rates have remained flat between April 2024 and April 2026, according to data from the LIFE Survey. Notably, ownership rates have decoupled from changes in Bitcoin's market price over the last six quarters, indicating a shift in investor behavior.

The survey also highlights a decline in the percentage of new crypto owners, those who made their first purchase within the last 12 months, while the percentage of passive owners, who made their most recent purchase more than 24 months ago, has increased. This suggests a trend toward long-term holding rather than active trading.

Additionally, the likelihood of respondents purchasing cryptocurrency has decreased in recent years, aligning with significant drops in Bitcoin's price. Senior Advisor and Research Fellow Tom Akana noted these findings in the October 2026 brief, emphasizing the changing dynamics in crypto ownership and market participation.