Crypto Surges as Second Most Popular Investment in France

• Crypto ranks as the second most common investment among French adults.
• Real estate funds lead as the most popular investment at 10.7%, placing cryptocurrencies just behind in popularity.
• 2.8% of the surveyed population holds non-fungible tokens (NFTs), indicating a rising interest in digital assets in France.

Cryptocurrencies have emerged as the second most commonly held investment asset among adults in France, according to a recent survey by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

The poll, published by France’s main financial regulator, AMF, found 9.4% of the French population owns crypto assets. This places cryptocurrency just behind real estate funds, the most popular investment at 10.7%.

Another 2.8% reported holding non-fungible tokens (NFTs), highlighting the growing French appetite for digital assets.

The survey also examined “new investors” who began investing following the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. This group skewed younger and more male, with an average age of 36 versus 51 for traditional investors.

Survey shows growing appetite for crypto

Notably, 54% of these new investors hold cryptocurrency, a sign of the asset class’s strong appeal among millennials and Gen Z. Crypto has rapidly gained traction in France amid rising mainstream adoption.

But the report’s authors flagged that new retail investors display relatively low financial literacy, especially those ages 18–24. This cohort struggled with basic investment concepts compared to traditional investors.

The survey polled 1,056 French adults this spring, including 40 in-depth interviews examining motivations. The OECD conducts the study annually.

France aims to cement itself as a European digital asset leader. In September, local telecom firm Iliad pledged over $100 million towards an artificial intelligence lab in Paris.

This month saw France open a first-of-its-kind crypto and blockchain institute near Paris. The government has also adopted crypto-friendly policies like lower capital gains taxes on long-term holdings.

The OECD survey results provide fresh evidence that these efforts are paying off by boosting crypto adoption among French citizens. With nearly one in ten now holding digital assets, cryptocurrency has gained a strong foothold throughout the population.

Younger generations, in particular, view crypto as an attractive new investment class. But the report also highlights the need for improved financial and crypto education to protect new investors.

As the youngest cohort starts investing in digital assets, France will need to ensure they understand risks like volatility and scams. With prudent regulation, the country can nurture a thriving crypto and blockchain industry powered by informed investors.