Charles Schwab survey: 64% of Millennial crypto owners plan to buy more

What the Survey Found

The survey, conducted by Charles Schwab, polled 2,000 Americans aged 21 to 75 between August 24 and September 17, 2026. The results show that 64% of Millennials who already own crypto plan to add more over the coming 12 months. Crypto topped the list of asset classes Millennials plan to buy, followed by ETFs at 56% and stocks at 52%.

Generational Divide

The survey also measured current ownership across generations. A third of Millennials, 33%, currently own crypto, while Gen Z came in at 22% and Baby Boomers at just 8%. This generational divide suggests that younger investors are increasingly interested in digital assets.

Direct Ownership

Among Americans familiar with crypto, more than 40% expressed interest in owning Bitcoin or Ethereum directly. This distinction matters, as direct ownership means holding the actual coins, rather than buying a fund or product that tracks their price. The rising interest in direct ownership suggests that comfort levels are rising among younger investors in gaining crypto exposure.

Implications

While the 64% figure measures intentions, not transactions. The survey also notes who was asked, as the 64% comes from Millennials who already own crypto, a group that has, by definition, already decided the asset class deserves a place in their portfolio. The results suggest that digital assets are becoming a more integral part of investment portfolios, particularly among younger generations.