US Crypto Adoption Sees a Resurgence, with Bitcoin Remaining the Dominant Force

A recent retail survey conducted by Deutsche Bank, spanning 3,400 consumers across the US, UK, and EU, reveals that crypto adoption in the US has experienced a significant comeback. The survey found that US participation rates have recovered to 12% in March, up from a February low of 7%, returning to levels last seen in July 2025. Notably, bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) saw a resurgence in March, with net inflows of roughly $1.3 billion, signaling renewed institutional demand after a slow start to the year. Analysts Marion Laboure and Camilla Siazon noted in their report that 'US crypto adoption rates recovered in March, after steadily declining since July 2025.' Despite the recovery, crypto prices have shown signs of stabilization after a volatile start to 2026, driven by renewed institutional demand and geopolitical factors. Bitcoin prices rose approximately 9% in March, recovering towards the $70,000 level, although they remain down over 20% year-to-date and well below the late-2025 peak above $120,000. The recovery has been uneven, with prices repeatedly testing resistance around the mid-$70,000 range. Macro pressures, including higher interest rates and energy-driven inflation, continue to weigh on crypto alongside broader risk assets. In terms of regional trends, UK adoption dipped slightly to 9%, while Europe remained steady at 7%. Despite the rebound in participation, consumer sentiment on bitcoin's price outlook remains subdued, with a majority of respondents expecting bitcoin to trade lower than current levels by the end of 2026. However, bitcoin remains firmly at the center of the crypto market, with roughly 70% of crypto investors across regions holding bitcoin, and it is the top choice for future investment. Traditional assets, such as gold and the S&P 500, continue to compete for investor attention, although the gap has narrowed in the US. Demographically, crypto adoption remains skewed towards men and higher-income households, but the report notes gradual gains among women and lower-income investors, with younger consumers showing the fastest growth in participation.