Crypto ETF Demand Rivals Bonds as 45% of Investors Eye Exposure: Schwab Survey

Nearly half of ETF investors now consider cryptocurrency products as viable alternatives to traditional fixed-income allocations. Charles Schwab's latest survey reveals 45% of respondents plan to allocate to crypto ETFs—a parity with bond ETFs that underscores digital assets' accelerating institutional acceptance.

The findings highlight a striking divergence between current market share and investor intent. While crypto ETFs represent just 1% of total ETF assets under management compared to bonds' 17%, demand trajectories suggest a potential rebalancing. Bloomberg analyst Eric Balchunas noted the anomaly: "Majorly punching above weight given crypto's tiny AUM footprint."

Product preferences show nuanced demand—34% favor index-style crypto exposure while 30% seek active management. Spot crypto ETFs demonstrate particular strength, with one-third of surveyed investors indicating planned allocations. The data signals a maturation phase where crypto competes directly with Core traditional assets rather than occupying a speculative niche.