Canada Sees Surge in Cryptocurrency Ownership, Reaching 25% in 2026

Canada’s Cryptocurrency Ownership More Than Doubles

According to a recent survey by the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC), cryptocurrency ownership in Canada has skyrocketed to 25% in 2026, a significant increase from just 10% in 2023. The survey, conducted between December 2025 and January 2026, engaged 2,360 adult Canadians. It revealed that while 59% of respondents are aware of cryptocurrency assets, only a quarter have invested in them.

Growing Participation Amidst Regulatory Warnings

The rise in crypto ownership indicates that digital assets are becoming more mainstream among Canadians, despite lingering concerns related to fraud and volatility. Naizam Kanji, executive vice president of strategic regulation at the OSC, emphasized the importance of recognizing emerging trends and behaviors in the market, stating, “Crypto markets continue to evolve, and Canadians are participating in them more than ever before.”

Investor Awareness Remains a Concern

Despite the increase in ownership, the OSC found that many investors lack a comprehensive understanding of platform protections. The survey showed that only about 50% of crypto owners verified whether their trading platform was registered before using it. This gap in knowledge raises significant concerns, especially since crypto holdings generally do not have the same protections as bank deposits.

Regulatory Developments on the Horizon

In light of the increasing cryptocurrency adoption, the Canadian government is considering stricter regulations, including a nationwide ban on crypto ATMs. These machines have often been exploited for scams, serving as channels through which fraud victims send funds that cannot be easily recovered. Additionally, a bill introduced in March aims to restrict cryptocurrency donations to political groups as part of efforts to tighten election financing rules.

Balancing Growth and Investor Protection

As cryptocurrency adoption rises, regulatory bodies face the challenge of promoting market accessibility while ensuring adequate investor protections. While companies like Coinbase expand their offerings in Canada, the planned prohibitions on certain crypto practices demonstrate a cautious approach to the growing digital asset landscape. The ongoing evolution in investor demographics and behaviors necessitates a dual focus on meeting demand for digital assets and addressing the significant consumer protection gaps.