New research from Charles Schwab indicates that the majority of US cryptocurrency investors are looking to increase their holdings over the next year, outpacing interest in traditional assets such as stocks, ETFs, bonds, and mutual funds.
Younger investors drive crypto momentum
According to the 2026 Modern Wealth Survey conducted by Charles Schwab, six out of ten current crypto investors expect to invest more in digital assets in the coming 12 months. This figure surpasses the intention to increase investments among ETF holders (56%), stock investors (52%), bondholders (42%), and mutual fund investors (41%).
Joe Vietri, Head of Digital Assets at Charles Schwab, highlighted that younger generations are at the forefront of this trend:
“Existing cryptocurrency investors are certainly leaning in, particularly younger investors who are driving much of the interest and momentum in cryptocurrency. But to me, the bigger story is that cryptocurrency is increasingly viewed as a complement to traditional investments.”
The survey found that millennials are the demographic most likely to own cryptocurrency, with ownership rates more than four times higher than among Boomers.
Mini dictionary: Charles Schwab is a leading US financial services company known for its brokerage, banking, and wealth management solutions. It is the largest custodian for registered investment advisors in the country.
Crypto ownership continues to grow
The report revealed that one in five Americans currently owns cryptocurrency, while another one in five is interested in making their first crypto purchase. Among all investors, nearly half reported owning crypto assets.
Charles Schwab has enhanced its digital asset offerings in recent years. In early 2026, the company started a phased launch of Schwab Crypto, a platform that provides retail clients with direct bitcoin trading alongside educational resources and professional support.
In addition to spot trading, Schwab also offers crypto-linked exchange-traded funds, bitcoin futures, and the Schwab Crypto Thematic Index ETF. CEO Rick Wurster stated that Schwab clients hold more than 20% of all crypto exchange-traded products industrywide.
| Asset Type | % Intending to Increase Holdings (Next 12 Months) |
|---|---|
| Cryptocurrency | 60% |
| ETFs | 56% |
| Stocks | 52% |
| Bonds | 42% |
| Mutual Funds | 41% |
Survey details
The study was conducted online by Logica Research between August 24 and September 17, 2026. It surveyed a nationally representative sample of 2,000 Americans, ages 21 to 75, to assess attitudes and behaviors involving wealth and investment decisions.
