Institutional investors continue to bet on the crypto market. New research reveals clear expectations for 2026.
Despite the turbulence of recent months, major market players are not pulling back — they are adapting their strategies. According to new research by Coinbase and EY, demand for simple and regulated investment vehicles is growing notably. Spot crypto ETFs have become the standard for many institutions and are expected to maintain that role in 2026. Three quarters of surveyed investors already use such products to access the market.
What Crypto Investors Are Betting On in 2026
European data points to a clear trend. Around 75% of investors from the EU and the UK expect crypto prices to rise over the next twelve months. A further 23% anticipate sideways movement, while only 3% expect prices to fall — reflecting broadly robust market confidence.
Willingness to increase capital allocation is also growing: 77% of respondents plan to raise their digital asset allocation in 2026. The primary drivers are the prospect of clearer regulatory frameworks and the expansion of regulated product offerings. Yet this same factor remains a source of uncertainty — a significant share of investors still views the lack of regulatory clarity as a key risk.
Elevated volatility has left a clear mark: nearly 40% of respondents report that risk management, liquidity, and position sizing are now weighted more heavily in internal processes. Around 85% of institutional players already use stablecoins or are exploring their use — for example, for internal cash management or fast transactions.
Tokenized assets are also gaining traction. About half of investors show concrete interest in such instruments, attracted primarily by faster settlement and new market structures.
Where to Trade Crypto Before 2027
If you want to capitalize on growing institutional interest in digital assets and start trading on your own, choosing a reliable and regulated platform is essential. We have put together a detailed crypto exchange rating — covering fee structures, security levels, available instruments, and ease of use.
In the rating you will find:
- leading global exchanges with licenses and regulatory oversight,
- platforms supporting spot ETFs and stablecoins,
- exchanges with low fees for active traders,
- platforms offering tokenized assets and institutional-grade tools,
- in-depth reviews and comparisons for both beginners and experienced investors.
Choosing the right exchange is the first step toward smart crypto portfolio management. Browse our rating and find the platform that matches your goals and experience level.
