Cambridge University report shows verified crypto users nearly doubled in 2018

On July 3, 2019, the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance released an updated report indicating that the number of verified cryptocurrency users worldwide nearly doubled in 2018. The report, based on extensive surveys of exchanges, wallets, and service providers, highlighted key trends in user adoption, regional growth patterns, and demographic changes.

Bitcoin adoption in Asia, Europe, and North America drove the increase, with mobile wallet usage, remittances, and merchant payments cited as primary growth drivers. Media outlets such as Cointelegraph, The Block, and TechCrunch covered the findings, noting that the data provided a more precise estimate of the global user base.

Analysts emphasized that this growth demonstrated increasing mainstream awareness and the maturing of cryptocurrency infrastructure. The report also discussed challenges, including security vulnerabilities, regulatory compliance, and educational gaps. Researchers recommended continued investment in user education, AML/KYC adherence, and infrastructure improvements to sustain adoption momentum.The Cambridge study has become a key reference point for policymakers, investors, and developers seeking to understand the scale and characteristics of cryptocurrency users globally.