Younger generations exhibit significantly greater confidence in cryptocurrencies compared to Baby Boomers, according to a recent survey conducted by OKX US. The survey, which included 1,000 participants and was carried out in January 2026, reveals that around 40% of Gen Z and 41% of Millennials express strong trust in crypto. In stark contrast, only 9% of Baby Boomers share the same level of confidence, showcasing a generational divide in trust towards digital assets.
When it comes to perceptions of the future of finance, over half of the younger respondents believe that cryptocurrencies could eventually challenge or even surpass traditional banks. Specifically, 52% of Gen Z and 50% of Millennials hold this optimistic view, while only 28% of Boomers agree, with a majority of 71% expecting banks to remain the dominant force in the financial landscape.
Roshan Robert, CEO of OKX US, emphasized that for Gen Z, trust is rooted in transparency rather than traditional banking practices. He stated, “For Gen Z, trust will be earned through transparency and control, not slogans and branch longevity.” This indicates a fundamental shift in how younger consumers engage with financial services.
The survey also highlights significant differences in trading intentions across generations. Approximately 40% of Gen Z and 36% of Millennials plan to increase their trading activities in 2026, whereas only 11% of Boomers have similar intentions. This discrepancy illustrates the proactive approach younger users are taking towards cryptocurrency.
Security is a key concern for younger traders, with 59% of Gen Z and 50% of Millennials prioritizing this aspect when using trading platforms. On the other hand, Boomers are more focused on regulatory compliance and legal protections, with 65% indicating this as their primary concern.
Interestingly, when asked about the advantages of cryptocurrency over traditional finance, nearly half of the Boomers responded with “none,” while only 6% of younger respondents echoed this sentiment. For younger generations, the appeal of cryptocurrency lies in practical benefits such as 24/7 access, ease of cross-border transactions, and flexibility that traditional banks often fail to provide.
As older generations remain cautious, the findings suggest that the growth of cryptocurrency will be largely driven by the trust and enthusiasm of younger, digitally native individuals. They are not only embracing cryptocurrencies but are also shaping the future of the financial ecosystem.
