Stablecoins have evolved from a tool for crypto trading to a daily financial resource. These assets are increasingly used for payments, salaries, and savings, according to a joint study by BVNK, Coinbase, and Artemis. 

We surveyed 4,658 stablecoin holders and prospective users across 15 countries to understand how people use stablecoins, with @YouGov @coinbase @artemis

What emerged: willingness to use stablecoins is ahead of real-world spendability.

The next growth unlock is acceptance and… pic.twitter.com/DAeAvdEjI9

— BVNK (@BVNKFinance) February 17, 2026

The findings are based on a YouGov survey of 4,658 adult respondents from 15 countries. More than half of the participants reported owning stablecoins in the past 12 months, and about 56% plan to increase their holdings this year. 

Over half of current stablecoin holders and potential buyers are aged 18-34. Approximately 60% of current or recent holders are male. However, in low- and middle-income countries, the gender gap narrows: 43% of holders are women compared to 57% men.

It was found that individuals earning a living through business, entrepreneurship, or active trading are more likely to own fiat-pegged tokens or show interest in them.

Savings 

On average, stablecoin and cryptocurrency holders keep about a third of their savings in these assets. 

The share of stablecoins in total savings is higher in low- and middle-income countries than in developed economies. This supports the notion that stablecoins are in demand as a hedge against local currency instability and the inefficiencies of cross-border payments. 

Africa has emerged as a leader in both ownership levels and intentions to increase holdings of such assets. 

Everyday Spending and Cross-Border Transfers

Among holders, 27% use stablecoins for direct purchases of goods and services, while 45% convert them into local currency. More than a quarter of respondents spend or convert their assets within a few days of receiving them, and about two-thirds do so within a few months.

Demand for merchants to accept stablecoins exceeds supply: 52% of holders made purchases specifically because the merchant accepted stablecoins. The desired spending level surpasses current spending in nearly all surveyed categories, including everyday purchases and major lifestyle expenses.

For freelancers, gig economy workers, and marketplace sellers, stablecoins account for an average of 35% of annual income. 

Nearly three-quarters of respondents stated that these assets have improved their ability to work with international clients, and marketplace sellers reported increased sales and expanded customer bases.

A key factor has been savings on fees: respondents reported an average savings of 40% compared to traditional payment services.

Barriers 

The study authors also identified several barriers faced by users: 

  • irreversibility of payments and the risk of loss;
  • the complexity of completing transactions;
  • confusion over blockchain selection and wallet management.

Users' main request is to make stablecoin payments as similar as possible to traditional financial services: they want them accepted everywhere, with transparent fees and reliable consumer protection.

If such "bridging infrastructure" is created, stablecoins will no longer be viewed as exotic crypto assets. They will simply become digital cash—convenient and borderless, experts concluded. 

In January, Ripple President Monica Long predicted a close integration of stablecoins with the banking system.