This holiday season, cryptocurrency is topping wish lists like never before, especially among Gen Z. While traditional gifts like gadgets and clothing remain popular, a surprising trend has emerged: nearly half of young Americans are hoping to unwrap Bitcoin or other digital assets under the tree.
According to a Visa-commissioned survey conducted by Morning Consult in October 2025, 45% of Gen Z adults (aged 18-28) said they would be excited to receive cryptocurrency as a holiday gift. That’s significantly higher than the overall U.S. adult average of 28%. The findings, released in early December, highlight a generational shift toward “digital-first” gifting, with crypto seen as a modern, forward-looking present.
Why Gen Z Is Embracing Crypto Gifts
Gen Z, the first truly digital-native generation, has grown up alongside Bitcoin’s rise. Many view cryptocurrency not just as an investment, but as a symbol of financial independence and innovation. As Bruce Cundiff, Visa’s vice president of consumer insights, noted: “We’re seeing Gen Z and younger millennials lead a fundamental reimagining of commerce,” blending AI tools, digital wallets, and crypto into everyday spending.
Factors driving this enthusiasm include:
- Pro-crypto policies: The Trump administration’s supportive stance, including executive orders boosting the industry, has fueled optimism.
- Market maturity: Spot Bitcoin ETFs and easier access via apps like Coinbase make gifting crypto simpler and more legitimate.
- Economic realities: With many Gen Zers living paycheck-to-paycheck amid inflation, receiving crypto feels like a low-risk entry into wealth-building, without spending their own money.
Experts point out that crypto appeals as an educational gift, teaching young people about markets, volatility, and long-term holding. “It’s like giving a stake in the future,” one analyst described it.
A Cautious Boom Amid Market Volatility
The excitement comes against a backdrop of crypto market caution. Bitcoin, the most popular gift choice, peaked near $126,000 in October 2025 but has since stabilized in a tight range. As of Christmas Day 2025, BTC is trading around $87,500, down from recent highs but still up massively over the long term.
Reports from The New York Times and others describe Gen Z’s attitude as “cautiously open.” Many young people who’ve experienced past dips (like the 2022 crash) are hesitant to invest personally but wouldn’t turn down a gifted portion. As one 22-year-old told the Times: “Money is being democratized… I think it’s important for our generation to keep up.”
No widespread “Santa Claus rally” materialized this December, with thin holiday liquidity and ETF outflows contributing to sideways trading. Yet, consumer interest in crypto gifting remains high, signaling broader adoption.
Risks and Expert Advice
While the trend is booming, experts urge caution. Cryptocurrency is volatile, prices can plummet as quickly as they rise. Financial advisors recommend:
- Starting small (e.g., $50–$100 gifts).
- Using reputable platforms with easy transfer options.
- Framing it as education, not a get-rich-quick scheme.
- Considering alternatives like stock ETFs for lower risk.
Some prefer safer “grow-with-them” options, like contributions to retirement accounts or index funds.
The Future of Holiday Gifting?
2025 marks a turning point: crypto has gone from niche to mainstream holiday option. As Gen Z enters prime spending years, this could reshape gifting traditions. Whether it’s Bitcoin in digital stockings or Ethereum vouchers, one thing is clear, the crypto Christmas boom reflects a generation betting on digital assets for the long haul.
Will 2026 bring even bigger surges? With ongoing regulatory support and institutional interest, many say yes. For now, Merry Crypto Christmas!