Gone are the days when cryptocurrency was just for tech bros and shadowy investors. Gen Z is flipping the script on digital currency, using it for everyday purchases while older generations save it for big splurges. About 36% of these digital natives spend crypto on daily transactions like gaming expenses. That’s right – they’re buying energy drinks and game skins with Bitcoin.
The numbers don’t lie. While Gen X hoards crypto for real estate and luxury purchases, 35% of younger users are swiping crypto for coffee runs and travel bookings.
Gen Z just doesn’t do credit cards like their parents – only about half use them, the lowest of any generation.
They’d rather pay with crypto.
Seriously.
Gaming tops the list of where the digital coins go.
Young consumers drop crypto on in-game purchases without blinking.
Food, beverages, and transit follow close behind.
It’s not just about investing anymore.
It’s not just about buying lunch.
Despite the convenience, users must remain vigilant as crypto theft continues to plague digital assets.
Social media drives this behavior, with 41% of Gen Z discovering crypto payment options through short-form videos and influencers.
No surprise there.
Everything they learn comes from TikTok these days.
The infrastructure matters too.
Regions with better merchant integrations see more daily crypto use.
QR codes for small shops, card integrations for big chains – the easier it is, the more they spend.
Duh.
What’s behind all this?
Gen Z trusts traditional banks about as much as they trust dial-up internet.
Plus, they want everything in one place, with 65% preferring to manage all finances in a single app.
In East Asia, young consumers are leading the charge with 41% of users utilizing cryptocurrency for everyday purchases and digital goods.
This aligns with broader market trends showing 67% of men dominating crypto ownership, even though Gen Z usage patterns tend to be more gender-balanced.
