Catenaa, Sunday, March 16, 2025-Bitcoin adoption remains relatively low despite its growing prominence, with only 4% of the world’s population owning BTC, according to a new study by River, a Bitcoin financial services firm.
The United States leads in Bitcoin ownership, with 14% of individuals reporting holdings, while North America has the highest adoption rates overall. In contrast, Africa lags behind, with just 1.6% of its population holding BTC.
The study suggests Bitcoin adoption correlates with economic development, as wealthier regions exhibit higher ownership rates. River estimates Bitcoin is only 3% of the way toward its full adoption potential, with institutions and governments currently representing just 1% of the market.
Despite Bitcoin’s increasing legitimacy—including its recognition as a U.S. government reserve asset—several obstacles hinder mass adoption. Financial literacy remains a key barrier, with many still perceiving Bitcoin as a scam. Additionally, price volatility discourages use as a reliable medium of exchange, particularly in developing economies, where stablecoins like USDT are preferred for digital transactions.
At the White House Crypto Summit on March 7, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent underscored the U.S. commitment to stablecoins, calling them essential for maintaining the dollar’s global dominance.
Meanwhile, analysts argue that Bitcoin’s price movements continue to mirror traditional financial markets rather than acting as a safe-haven asset. For BTC to become a true hedge against economic instability, it must decouple from equities, according to Garrison Yang, co-founder of Mirai Labs.
