For What—and How—Do People Use Bitcoin?

Is bitcoin being saved? Spent? Stored? All of the above?

In Week 3 of the Cornell Global Bitcoin Adoption study, we asked: What does it actually mean to “use” bitcoin?

Across 24 countries:

💰 Most allocate less than 25% of their savings to bitcoin

💸 1 in 3 owners transact with bitcoin weekly

🔐 Most don’t understand the difference between custodial and non-custodial wallets

What we found is that use varies by context. In some places, bitcoin is an investment. In others, it’s a lifeline. This isn’t just about transactions—it’s about beliefs, behaviors, and economic agency.