Overview
- New research from CoinDesk and Protocol Theory estimates 24.3% of internet‑connected adults in Asia‑Pacific use digital assets, above the 16.9% global average.
- Stablecoin usage is now widespread, with adoption in emerging markets at 17.8% versus 5.8% in developed economies, and Thailand leading stablecoin use at 30% as Japan trails at 2%.
- The report links remittances to expansion, saying 29% of remittance users employ stablecoins and citing Artemis’ estimate of roughly $72 billion in annualized flows.
- Evolving virtual‑asset service provider regimes are highlighted as enablers, with more than 70% of adults in emerging markets viewing regulation as important for participation.
- Usability remains the main brake on growth, as high awareness and intent contrast with wallet and exchange complexity, and the findings are set to frame discussions at Consensus Hong Kong 2026 in February.