A new survey conducted by Nomura, a Tokyo-based bank, and its cryptocurrency division, Laser Digital, indicates a significant increase in institutional investors' interest in digital assets. The survey, which gathered responses from over 500 investment professionals in Japan, found that 31% of respondents now have a positive outlook on cryptocurrency for the upcoming year, marking an increase from 25% in 2024. Furthermore, the study revealed a decline in negative sentiment, suggesting a gradual shift in perception as the asset class continues to mature.
A key finding of the study is the importance of diversification, with 65% of respondents viewing cryptocurrency as a vital component of portfolio diversification. Additionally, 79% of those considering investment in cryptocurrency plan to do so within the next three years, with most expecting to allocate between 2% and 5% of their portfolio.
The growing interest in cryptocurrency among institutional investors is supported by a changing regulatory landscape, with policymakers in Japan refining cryptocurrency frameworks over the past year. Globally, the introduction of clearer rules and the approval of cryptocurrency investment products, such as exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and tokenized assets, have reduced uncertainty and encouraged institutions to invest. As a result, interest in cryptocurrency is expanding beyond simple price exposure, with over 60% of respondents expressing interest in staking, lending, derivatives, and tokenized assets.
Stablecoins are also gaining popularity, with 63% of respondents identifying potential use cases, including treasury management, cross-border payments, and investment in tokenized securities. However, despite the growing interest, concerns around volatility, counterparty risk, and the lack of established valuation frameworks continue to hinder adoption. Regulatory uncertainty, although improving, remains a challenge.
Nevertheless, the survey suggests a shift in the conversation, with institutions increasingly focused on how to invest in cryptocurrency, rather than whether to do so, indicating that digital assets are becoming a more standard component of institutional portfolios.