- The number of crypto millionaires surged by 95% in the past year, largely driven by Bitcoin’s rally and the growth of Bitcoin ETFs.
- This growth highlights the expanding influence of cryptocurrency in wealth creation and is shifting where the wealthy choose to live and invest.
The world of cryptocurrency has experienced a significant shift, with a dramatic surge in the number of crypto millionaires, driven primarily by Bitcoin’s rally and the growing adoption of Bitcoin ETFs. According to a recent report by New World Wealth and Henley & Partners, the population of crypto millionaires has nearly doubled, reflecting a 95% increase over the past year. This surge showcases the expanding reach of cryptocurrency in wealth creation and the broadening influence of Bitcoin as an investment vehicle.
The Millionaire Spike: A Growing Crypto Class
In just one year, the number of individuals holding more than $1 million in crypto assets has risen to 172,300, a sharp increase from 88,200 last year. Among them, 85,400 are pure Bitcoin millionaires, marking a remarkable growth in those who have benefited directly from Bitcoin’s performance. The report highlights that Bitcoin ETFs, which now hold over $50 billion in assets since their introduction earlier this year, have been key drivers in this rise. Institutional participation fueled by these ETFs has accelerated Bitcoin’s growth, drawing both individual and large-scale investors into the market.
This wave of crypto wealth doesn’t stop at millionaires. The number of crypto centi-millionaires—those holding at least $100 million in digital assets—has climbed to 325, while the world now boasts 28 crypto billionaires. Of the six newly created crypto billionaires this year, five owe their fortune primarily to Bitcoin, underscoring its position as the dominant cryptocurrency for long-term investors.
A Changing Wealth Landscape
As Bitcoin continues to edge closer to its all-time high of $69,044, the overall market cap of crypto assets has risen to $2.3 trillion, nearly doubling from $1.2 trillion last year. The market’s rapid recovery reflects the growing acceptance of cryptocurrencies among major financial institutions like BlackRock and Fidelity, which have increasingly integrated crypto assets into their portfolios. This broader acceptance points toward sustained growth and continued wealth creation in the crypto space.
Notably, the evolving crypto wealth is also transforming where the rich choose to live and work. Many newly wealthy crypto investors are relocating to tax-friendly and crypto-supportive regions. Singapore, ranked first in Henley’s new “Crypto Adoption Index,” stands out due to its favorable regulatory environment and supportive banking infrastructure. Following Singapore are Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States, which collectively lead in crypto adoption.
The Future of Crypto Wealth
While many cryptocurrencies remain below their 2021 peaks, the current rally has revived confidence in digital assets. The report emphasizes that the rising acceptance of crypto by large asset managers could drive even more wealth into the sector, paving the way for more millionaires, centi-millionaires, and billionaires in the years to come. As the crypto market evolves, it’s clear that the influence of digital assets on global wealth is only growing, reshaping the landscape of financial success.
