Virtual currencies have recently dominated headlines, with their growing popularity prompting inclusion in Monex Group's 23rd Global Retail Investor Survey. Conducted between May 29 and June 5, 2017, the survey polled 8,698 retail investors across Japan, the US, and Hong Kong.
Key Findings on Cryptocurrency Adoption
- Japan & US: Merely 3% of retail investors reported holding virtual currency investments
- Hong Kong: Higher adoption at 10%
- Awareness Gap: 20% of US/Hong Kong investors claimed unfamiliarity with cryptocurrencies
- Japan: High familiarity (80%) but low investment rates
👉 Why are institutional investors flocking to crypto?
Market Context and Trends
Japanese firms like GMO Internet (TYO:9449) are expanding into crypto services, citing:
- Growing Bitcoin trading volumes
- Favorable regulatory conditions
- Planned Ethereum integration (announced June 2017)
Volatility Concerns
Recent Bitcoin price surges drew comparisons to:
- 17th-century "Tulip Mania"
- Speculative asset bubbles
Tech Sector Dominates Investor Interest
The survey highlighted three regional trends:
- Primary Attraction: Technology sector ranked #1 across all markets
- Driver: Media coverage of AI advancements
- Investment Patterns: Shift toward innovation-driven assets
FAQs
Q: What percentage of Japanese investors own crypto?
A: Just 3% - despite 80% familiarity.
Q: Which market showed highest crypto adoption?
A: Hong Kong led with 10% investment rates.
Q: Why are traditional firms entering crypto?
A: Growing demand and clearer regulations.
👉 How to start crypto investing safely
Q: What's fueling tech investment growth?
A: Media spotlight on AI breakthroughs.
Q: Are crypto prices stable?
A: No - volatility remains a hallmark (see "Tulip Mania" parallels).
Q: When did GMO launch crypto services?
A: Officially began trading operations on June 31, 2017.