Majority of Affluent Investors Hold Digital Assets Despite 2026 Downturn

CoinShares PLC, a leading global asset manager specializing in digital assets, has released its Affluent Investor Crypto Report, based on a survey of 2,230 affluent investors across seven major markets. The survey, conducted with Vardaxoglou Advisory, reveals that a majority of wealthy investors in each market hold digital assets, ranging from 54% in Sweden to around 70% in the US, UK, Germany, and Switzerland. Despite the sharp downturn in February 2026, the survey found that more investors were encouraged to invest rather than deterred, particularly in Germany where 54% reported increased investment intent.

The report highlights that affluent investors are committed to long-term holdings, with average allocations around 10% of their portfolios. Strategic motives, such as long-term appreciation and diversification, dominate over speculation. Bitcoin is the most held digital asset, with 80% of investors including it in their portfolios. The survey also indicates strong support for increased regulation of the digital asset market, with 79% of respondents in favor.

Macroeconomic factors, such as interest rates and inflation, are cited as the primary investment triggers, overshadowing technical analysis. The survey also reveals a generational shift, with younger investors (aged 18-44) allocating roughly twice the portfolio share of older investors in four of the seven markets. This trend is significant given the estimated $84 trillion expected to pass to younger heirs over the next two decades.

Wealth managers are identified as the most trusted source of digital asset information, with 69% of respondents open to working with advisors who have crypto expertise. However, roughly four in ten investors in Switzerland, France, the US, and Germany feel their current advisors are overly cautious about digital assets.