French Cryptocurrency Ownership Declines for the First Time

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In a notable shift for Europe’s third-largest economy, the number of cryptocurrency holders in France has dropped for the first time since 2022. According to recent data, ownership among French adults fell from 12% in 2024 to 10% in 2025—marking a reversal in a trend that had seen steady growth over the past three years.

This decline reflects broader economic pressures, changing investor demographics, and an innovation environment that continues to lag behind other major European markets. While global crypto markets experienced momentum—fueled in part by political narratives and regulatory clarity elsewhere—France appears to be facing unique challenges in sustaining mainstream adoption.

Young Investors Step Back from Crypto

One of the most striking findings from the latest research by the Digital Assets Development Association (Adan), Ipsos, and Deloitte is the retreat of younger investors. In 2024, 57% of French crypto holders were under the age of 35. By 2025, that figure had dropped to 42%. This generational shift suggests a cooling of enthusiasm among digital natives who once drove much of the sector’s early growth.

👉 Discover how global market shifts are influencing young investors' crypto strategies.

The study, commissioned by the French Ministry of Economy and based on a representative sample of 2,000 adults aged 18+ across France and Europe, reveals that 10% of French citizens now own some form of cryptocurrency—approximately 5.5 million people. This compares with 12% (around 6.6 million) in the previous year.

Within this group:

Ownership of related assets has also declined:

Despite these drops, crypto remains a meaningful part of personal finance for those who hold it. On average, digital assets make up 17% of savings among crypto owners—significantly higher than the 2% share they represent in the overall French savings landscape.

Traditional financial instruments still dominate:

Crypto holders, however, exhibit distinct financial behaviors—they are 2.5 times more likely to invest in equities than non-holders and allocate less to low-risk instruments like cash or retirement funds.

Why Are Young French Investors Pulling Back?

Economic uncertainty, tighter credit conditions, and inflationary pressures may be key factors. With rising living costs and housing affordability challenges, younger adults may be prioritizing immediate financial stability over speculative investments.

Additionally, limited access to user-friendly investment platforms, tax complexity, and a lack of clear educational resources could be dampening engagement among tech-savvy but risk-averse youth.

France Lags Behind European Peers in Crypto Adoption

While France sees declining interest, other European nations are either maintaining or increasing their crypto adoption rates. The contrast highlights structural differences in regulatory support, financial infrastructure, and public sentiment.

As of 2025:

All of these countries have either seen stable or growing investor bases over the past year. Notably, several European firms have already secured licensing under the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) regulation, which came into effect at the start of 2025—yet no French company has obtained this approval to date.

👉 Learn how MiCA is reshaping the European crypto landscape and creating new opportunities.

The absence of French firms in this early wave underscores deeper systemic issues. According to the Adan-Ipsos-Deloitte report:

"The tax system remains ill-adapted, access to financing and banking services is still overly complex for many businesses, and regulation—while necessary—is still perceived as a constraint on innovation."

These barriers hinder not only corporate growth but also public confidence. Without visible domestic success stories or trusted local platforms, consumers may feel less inclined to participate.

Despite Decline, Interest in Crypto Remains Strong

Even with falling ownership rates, public interest in digital assets remains robust. The study found that one in three French adults plans to purchase cryptocurrency in 2025. Among those intending to buy:

This indicates that while current ownership is down, the underlying curiosity and long-term potential are still present. The appetite for foundational crypto assets suggests that investors are seeking value storage and decentralized alternatives rather than speculative trends.

FAQ: Understanding France’s Crypto Shift

Q: Is cryptocurrency illegal in France?
A: No. Cryptocurrency is legal in France and subject to regulation. Investors must report gains for tax purposes, and businesses dealing in digital assets must comply with anti-money laundering (AML) rules.

Q: Why did crypto ownership decline in France?
A: The drop is likely due to economic pressures, reduced risk appetite among young investors, regulatory hurdles for local firms, and a lack of banking support for crypto-related businesses.

Q: How does France’s crypto adoption compare to other EU countries?
A: France lags behind leaders like the UK (19%), Netherlands (17%), and Germany (13%). Unlike some peers, no French firm has yet received MiCA authorization, slowing ecosystem development.

Q: Are stablecoins popular in France?
A: Interest has waned—ownership dropped from 6% to 3%. However, 10% of those planning to invest in crypto say they would consider regulated stablecoins, indicating cautious optimism.

Q: What percentage of French savings is in crypto?
A: Among all French adults, crypto represents just 2% of total savings. But among holders, it accounts for 17%, showing concentrated commitment within the user base.

Q: Is the decline in NFT ownership significant?
A: Yes—NFT ownership halved from 6% to 3%, reflecting a broader global trend of reduced hype and speculative trading following the 2021–2022 boom.

Looking Ahead: Can France Reclaim Momentum?

The temporary dip in ownership doesn’t necessarily signal long-term rejection of blockchain technology. Rather, it may reflect a maturation phase—where early adopters consolidate positions while broader adoption waits for improved infrastructure and policy support.

To regain momentum, France could benefit from:

With MiCA now in force across the EU, there’s a clear framework for responsible innovation. If French policymakers align with this momentum, the country could reposition itself as a hub for blockchain entrepreneurship.

👉 See how emerging regulations are creating safer, more transparent crypto markets worldwide.

For individual investors, the message is clear: while short-term fluctuations occur, digital assets continue to play an evolving role in modern portfolios. As global markets mature and institutional participation grows, France may yet see renewed interest—especially if domestic conditions improve.

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