Key takeaways

  • Global Bitcoin adoption has surpassed 500 million users, with emerging markets like India, Nigeria and Argentina leading in per capita adoption. 
  • Countries such as El Salvador, the UAE, Switzerland and Singapore are leading the way with pro-Bitcoin policies, supportive leadership and crypto innovation hubs.
  • Bitcoin merchant adoption is growing globally, with the US, EU countries and crypto tourism hotspots. 
  • Donald Trump’s pro-crypto stance is reshaping the US landscape, signaling a regulatory and political shift that could accelerate Bitcoin adoption and innovation in America.

As of March 2025, Bitcoin (BTC) adoption has taken root across the globe — but not evenly. In some countries, it’s becoming a household name, a hedge against inflation and even a go-to for daily payments. In others, it’s still facing hurdles from outdated tech, skeptical regulators or economic instability. 

So, who’s leading the charge into the Bitcoin era, and who’s still stuck on the sidelines? Let’s break down the latest numbers, trends and standout players in the global race toward Bitcoin adoption.

This article provides an in-depth overview of the leading and lagging countries in Bitcoin adoption and the changing outlook for cryptocurrencies worldwide. 

Global Bitcoin adoption: An overview

Bitcoin’s global adoption has accelerated rapidly over the past few years, evolving from a niche asset into a mainstream financial instrument embraced by millions across continents. Driven by factors like inflation hedging, remittance needs, digital payment innovations and growing distrust in traditional financial systems, Bitcoin has carved out a significant place in both emerging and developed markets.

As of January 2025, over 500 million people worldwide hold some form of cryptocurrency, with Bitcoin being the most widely adopted. According to the Chainalysis “2024 Crypto Adoption Index” report, countries in Asia, Latin America and Africa are showing particularly strong momentum in grassroots Bitcoin usage, while North America and Europe continue to dominate in institutional and merchant adoption.

  • The world’s two most populous countries, India and China, together comprising more than half of the world population, also hold almost half of the world’s crypto user base.
  • Latin America and Africa have emerged as hotspots for Bitcoin adoption, particularly for remittances, cross-border payments and inflation protection. Nigeria, Argentina and Vietnam report some of the highest adoption rates per capita, with strong peer-to-peer transaction volumes and rising mobile wallet usage.
  • Adoption in Western Europe and East Asia is growing at a steady pace, albeit more focused on regulated exchanges, merchant adoption and institutional use cases.

Here’s a closer look at the top Bitcoin-adopting countries as of early 2025:

Countries that have adopted Bitcoin as of early 2025

Did you know? Bitcoin’s fixed supply of 21 million coins positions it as a potential hedge against inflation, similar to gold. This scarcity has led some investors to view Bitcoin as a modern store of value in the digital age.

Crypto-friendly leaders: Who’s embracing Bitcoin?

Some countries are not just adopting Bitcoin — they’re actively paving the way for its growth with supportive policies, pro-crypto leadership and innovation hubs. These nations are setting the pace in the global crypto race.

  • El Salvador: Led by President Nayib Bukele, El Salvador became the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender in 2021. Bukele continues to champion Bitcoin through initiatives like the “Bitcoin City” project and Bitcoin-backed bonds, making the country a symbol of BTC-first policy.
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE): Under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, vice president of the UAE, the country has launched the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), created crypto-free zones, and aims to become a global crypto innovation hub. Dubai, especially, with its clear regulatory framework and pro-blockchain technology stance, has become an ambitious hub for global crypto startups.
  • Switzerland: With support from a decentralized federal government, Zug’s local leadership has positioned Switzerland as a global crypto leader. “Crypto Valley” in Zug is home to hundreds of blockchain firms, and crypto is even accepted for tax payments in some regions.
  • Singapore: Backed by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat and the forward-thinking Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), Singapore has developed a clear, progressive regulatory framework attracting exchanges, venture capitalists, Web3 startups and multinationals from around the world. In February 2025, Metro, a publicly listed department store chain, enabled its customers to pay for products using stablecoins like Tether’s USDt (USDT) in Singapore. 
  • Nigeria: Under President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria has shifted gears with a new national blockchain policy. Despite previous crackdowns, the government is now engaging with the crypto sector, responding to strong grassroots adoption and increasing mobile wallet usage.

Bitcoin merchant adoption: Where can you spend BTC?

While holding Bitcoin is one thing, spending it is the next frontier. Some regions are rapidly embracing BTC as a payment method, both online and offline.

  • United States: Bitcoin is making serious inroads in retail and online commerce. Starbucks accepts Bitcoin via apps like Bakkt and Fold, while platforms like Shopify and PayPal enable thousands of merchants to accept crypto payments. Major retailers like Overstock and Newegg have long embraced Bitcoin, and BitPay now supports payments for brands like AMC Theatres and Microsoft.
  • EU member states: Bitcoin usage is rising across Germany, the Netherlands and Portugal, particularly in hospitality, tourism and e-commerce. For example, Berlin has a growing number of cafes and hotels accepting BTC, while Lisbon’s crypto-friendly environment makes it a hub for Bitcoin payments in co-working spaces, restaurants and local services.
  • Crypto tourism hotspots: Destinations like Thailand, Portugal and Bali are becoming go-to spots for crypto travelers. In Phuket and Chiang Mai, many hotels, spas and tour services accept BTC via platforms like Travala and CoinMap. Bali hosts crypto-friendly beach clubs and cafes, while Lisbon offers BTC payments for accommodations and events.

Thailand to Test Bitcoin Payments in Phuket for Digital Tourism

Did you know? As of early 2025, the global number of Bitcoin ATMs has surpassed 40,000, with the United States hosting over 85% of these machines. Major cities such as Los Angeles, Miami and New York each have a substantial number of Bitcoin ATMs, making it increasingly convenient for users to buy BTC on the go.

Global regulatory landscape: A mixed bag

Crypto regulation is all over the map — some countries are rolling out the red carpet, while others are putting up roadblocks. Here’s a snapshot of key trends:

  • Pro-Bitcoin regions: UAE, Switzerland, El Salvador, Singapore and parts of the US are fostering innovation with clear, crypto-friendly laws.
  • Tightening control: China, India (tax-heavy environment) and some African nations are clamping down with restrictions or heavy taxation.
  • EU’s MiCA framework: The EU is leading with unified crypto regulation via Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA), balancing consumer protection with innovation support.
  • Africa and LATAM: Many are still in flux — watch for rapid developments as grassroots adoption pressures governments for clarity.

Did you know? In March 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, positioning the United States as the first nation to hold Bitcoin as a national reserve asset. 

The United States and Trump’s pro-crypto stance

The US is a global powerhouse and home to over 28 million crypto users (8.3% of the population). In 2024, financial giants BlackRock and Fidelity entered the Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) market, giving Bitcoin a major credibility boost and making it more accessible to traditional investors. 

With a mature crypto infrastructure, including major exchanges, custodians, BTC payment services and a growing roster of institutional investors, the US is undergoing a massive shift under President Trump’s second office tenure.

Ahead of the 2024 elections, Donald Trump has flipped the script — going from crypto skeptic to outspoken supporter. He’s embraced pro-Bitcoin, pro-crypto policies and is actively courting the growing Web3 voter base. At campaign rallies, he’s pledged to support “financial freedom” and cut regulatory red tape, marking a potential turning point in US crypto policy.

“Crypto should be made in America — not driven offshore by bad policies.” — Donald Trump, 2024 presidential campaign rally. 

His stance has energized the US crypto scene and signaled that Bitcoin — and broader digital asset innovation — could become a key political and economic priority in the years ahead.