Your Bank Wants to Hold Your Crypto (And You Want Them To)

77% of stablecoin users would open a crypto wallet within their banking app if available. This isn't just another survey statistic—it's a roadmap for the future of money.

The YouGov survey, commissioned by Coinbase and stablecoin infrastructure provider BVNK, reveals a striking appetite for mainstream crypto integration. Among 4,658 respondents, 71% said they'd use a stablecoin-linked debit card, while users already hold an average of 35% of their annual earnings in these digital dollars.

Freelancers Lead the Charge

The most enthusiastic adopters aren't crypto traders—they're everyday workers. 73% of freelancers and contractors report that stablecoins have improved their ability to work with international clients. No wire transfer delays, no foreign exchange fees, just instant payments that work across borders.

This shift reflects a broader transformation in how people earn and spend money. Traditional banking infrastructure, built for a world of 9-to-5 jobs and domestic transactions, struggles to serve the gig economy's global workforce.

Banks Face a Choice

Traditional banks find themselves in an uncomfortable position. Their customers want crypto services, but regulatory uncertainty has kept most institutions on the sidelines. That's changing as clearer frameworks emerge.

The GENIUS Act in the U.S. represents a turning point. "By codifying transparency and cybersecurity standards, the Act classifies these assets as reliable cash equivalents," Coinbase noted. This regulatory clarity could give banks the confidence they need to enter the crypto space without fear of compliance issues.

But hesitation comes with costs. While banks debate, fintech companies and crypto exchanges are already capturing market share. The question isn't whether traditional finance will integrate with digital assets—it's whether banks will lead or follow.

Money Gets an Upgrade

Stablecoin market capitalization has grown 50% since early 2025, surpassing $300 billion. This isn't speculative froth—it's utility-driven growth. People use stablecoins because they solve real problems: instant settlements, lower fees, and global accessibility.

"Users want stablecoins to behave like money they already know," BVNK observed. The insight cuts to the heart of mainstream adoption. Success won't come from revolutionary new concepts but from making existing financial activities work better.