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In July 2025, the U.S. passed the GENIUS Act, its first federal law regulating payment stablecoins. The Act requires issuers to hold full asset reserves, undergo regular audits, and comply with anti-money laundering rules. Supporters say these standards could push stablecoins into mainstream finance, while critics warn that gaps remain and note controversy over limits on lawmakers’ involvement that do not apply to the President’s family.
With so much potentially at stake, what impact does the bill have on consumer behavior? CivicScience data paints the most up-to-date picture of Americans’ sentiment towards crypto. As of July 2025, 35% of Americans have already invested in cryptocurrency or plan to do so — the highest percentage seen since CivicScience began tracking in 2019. Interest is highest among Gen Z adults aged 18-29 and Democrats, who lead the way in both current investing and future planning.
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While there are many reasons why Americans might be more motivated to invest in crypto, one is likely the increased trust that the data has shown since 2023. In the last two years, the percentage of respondents with at least ‘medium trust’ has risen by nine percentage points (22% to 31%). Meanwhile, those with ‘low to no trust’ saw a corresponding nine percentage point decrease in the same timeframe (78% to 69%).
Although the GENIUS Act may not appeal to everyone, it could further strengthen the resolve of those already determined to explore this alternative form of investing.
With trust rising for investors, it comes as no surprise that six months from now, 36% of Americans expect to invest ‘more’ in cryptocurrencies. While this figure is down slightly from a few years ago, the percentage spending ‘less’ on crypto has decreased, as more intend to spend about the ‘same.’ And within the next 3 months, 33% are at least ‘somewhat’ likely to invest in stablecoin – a less volatile form of cryptocurrency that is backed by another type of currency, such as the U.S. dollar or gold – a trend that the new user-protection-focused laws could potentially influence.
However, trust may not be the only factor influencing Americans to invest. As the data show, those who have spent at a higher rate than usual over the past seven days are the most likely to have already invested in cryptocurrencies. They’re also the most likely to plan to do so, suggesting a strong correlation between comfort with spending money and taking a chance on less common investments.
Crypto Investors Are in for the Long Haul
Despite the reputation cryptocurrencies have gotten – with dramatic boom and bust cycles – in 2025, Americans aren’t turning to crypto for a quick win. In fact, 37% say they invest or would invest for the long-term growth prospects, while 20% are focused on the short-term (excluding ‘not applicable’ and ‘other’). It’s also worth noting that 22% of respondents are interested in cryptocurrencies for ‘easy, fast, and safe transactions.’ Whether or not these consumers feel the new bill supports that goal is yet to be seen.
While low-income investors are more likely to invest for the short-term, and because it’s easy, middle and high-income households are more likely to invest to hedge against adverse economic conditions and gain independence from the government.
Take our Poll: To what extent do you support or oppose the recently signed GENIUS Act?
Obstacles Remain in Crypto’s Path to Mainstream Acceptance
Although trust in cryptocurrency is rising, obstacles to more mainstream acceptance remain. Fresh data reveal that the largest percentage (31%) choose not to invest in crypto because of concerns over its legitimacy, up three percentage points from 2024. Fewer now say they don’t understand it, it’s too volatile, or they lack the financial means.
Time will tell if the new legislation addresses these concerns, but for now, the vast majority of Americans (79%) would prefer to invest in traditional stocks over cryptocurrencies.
And while uncertainty abounds across industries, this is especially true in the world of personal finance. Those who are ‘very concerned’ about the impact of recent trade policies and tariffs are the most likely to have already invested in crypto, perhaps suggesting a link between increased risk and increased concern.
A New Era of Investing
In 2025, cryptocurrencies are alive and well and potentially being seen in a new light in the wake of the GENIUS Act. Although the true impact of the legislation is yet to be seen, it’s clear that investors are getting more comfortable with the thought of alternative assets–even amidst an era of uncertainty. And since trust is often the first step towards larger action, the financial industry could be on the brink of a new era of investing.
CivicScience gives you the clarity and knowledge to move with confidence in an uncertain market.
