A new study from River, a Bitcoin financial firm based in the United States, highlights the current state of Bitcoin ownership across the globe. As of 2025, it has been revealed that fewer than 4% of the world's population holds Bitcoin, indicating a significant gap in ownership despite the cryptocurrency's growing popularity and institutional acceptance. The source reports that this trend poses challenges for broader adoption and integration of Bitcoin into everyday financial systems.
Research Overview
The research, spearheaded by CEO Alex Leishman, delves into various aspects of the Bitcoin ecosystem, including brokerage, mining, custody, and research. This comprehensive analysis aims to shed light on the factors influencing Bitcoin adoption and the barriers that still exist for potential investors.
Current State of Bitcoin Ownership
Despite Bitcoin's increasing visibility and the rise of institutional players in the market, the study suggests that a vast majority of the global population remains outside the realm of Bitcoin ownership. This statistic raises questions about the future of cryptocurrency and its potential to reach a broader audience as it continues to evolve.
As countries navigate the complexities of Bitcoin adoption, the European Central Bank (ECB) is simultaneously pushing forward with its digital euro initiative, highlighting the evolving landscape of digital currencies. This ongoing development underscores the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to enhance financial sovereignty and inclusion. Recently, a partnership between Chainlink and Ithaca Protocol has emerged, showcasing innovative trading solutions that align with these goals. For more insights on this significant shift in the decentralized finance landscape, read the full story here.
