A survey by Hong Kong-based brokerage firm Futu revealed that Gen Z is highly optimistic about cryptocurrencies, believing that Bitcoin has three times the potential of real estate.
A new study from Hong Kong brokerage firm Futu Securities shows that Gen Z is rewriting their financial strategies. This generation is betting big on Bitcoin (BTC) and other tokens rather than pursuing the traditional dream of home ownership. Research shows that Gen Z is three times more optimistic about cryptocurrencies than real estate, indicating a significant shift in their views on financial security.
Hong Kong newspaper The Standard, citing data revealed by brokerage firm Futu Securities, reveals a striking finding: 23% of Gen Z respondents paid 1 million as a down payment for a home loan. He said he feels safer with only two Bitcoins in his portfolio than paying Hong Kong dollars (about $128,400). house. The shift in mindset is important in a city where real estate has always been a symbol of wealth and stability.
And there's good reason for optimism. Bitcoin soared 125% in 2024, passing the $100,000 milestone in December before settling around $97,000. Meanwhile, Hong Kong's real estate market has struggled to achieve the same level of returns. With numbers like these, it is no wonder that crypto assets have become the first choice for the younger generation.
For 45% of Gen Z respondents, the convenience and security of crypto investing exceeds traditional assets such as real estate. It's not just about return, it's also about flexibility. Cryptocurrency offers a level of freedom that real estate ownership cannot match.
Economic uncertainty changes focus
Hong Kong residents do not feel very secure about their finances. They rate their financial security on average at 6.43 out of 10, according to the survey. Amid growing economic uncertainty, more than half of respondents are turning to investments that generate passive income.
High-income earners in particular are the first to dive into diversified and risky assets.
- 25% have five or more sources of income.
- 34% invest more than half of their income.
- 42% have invested in cryptocurrencies and 66% have made a profit.
High-income earners are clearly leading the way, but Gen Z is following close behind.
generational change
Younger generations are shaping a new wealth narrative. For many Gen Z, owning real estate is no longer a dream. In fact, it feels like holding 2 BTC is a better way to ensure financial security.
The paper notes that this sentiment is not just about returns, but also about optimism. Gen Z expects a bright future for virtual assets. They are excited about the possibilities of cryptocurrencies, with some saying that cryptocurrencies offer freedom and flexibility that traditional assets cannot match.
But it's not just the kids. 77% of Gen
In a comment to crypto.news, Vivien Wong, Partner Liquid Funds at HashKey Capital, said the shift in investor mindset has revealed a “fascinating interplay of influences.”
“While there is no doubt that tech-savvy people are attracted to the digital allure of Bitcoin with its decentralized appeal and futuristic appeal, property price fluctuations in the Hong Kong real estate market in recent years have cannot be ignored. It is as if a younger generation armed with smartphones and coding languages is at the forefront of a financial revolution where the appeal of virtual assets collides with the real estate market.”
Vivian Wong
Wong said that Gen Z's influence “goes beyond social media trends and fashion choices” as they possess “significant disposable income” and reshape “cultural trends and financial paradigms.” “It is spreading,'' he said.
“Aligned with values such as transparency, inclusivity, and digitally native tools, Bitcoin resonates with Gen Z principles and is poised to further expand the cryptocurrency economy. It not only highlights the changing dynamics but also suggests the meeting of tradition and innovation in today's finance.”
Vivian Wong
The Futu report shows that diversification is key. Stocks and cryptocurrencies are the most popular asset classes for growth. US stock trading volume on Futu's platform surged 88% in 2024, led by sectors such as AI, renewable energy, and healthcare.
“Digital assets are becoming an integral part of modern portfolios,” said Futu Managing Director Alan Tse. As a result, the changes are not just about investments. It's about changing the way Hong Kongers view financial security.
