According to Cointelegraph, global retail crypto transactions have experienced a significant increase, rising by over 125% between January and September 2025. This growth mirrors the expansion seen in 2024, as reported by blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs in its recent Crypto Adoption and Stablecoin Usage Report. The surge is largely attributed to practical applications such as payments, remittances, and value preservation in volatile economic conditions, highlighting the growing influence of individual users in the crypto industry.
In the United States, TRM Labs notes that the growth observed since 2023 has been bolstered by political, regulatory, and structural factors, which have opened the market to new participants. The U.S. market's consistent double-digit expansion over the past two years reflects not only enthusiasm but also the impact of regulatory clarity and political commitment. Significant steps toward crypto regulation have been taken, including the introduction of bills like the GENIUS Act and the CLARITY Act, as well as a joint task force with the United Kingdom.
Pakistan's crypto landscape has also seen positive developments, with supportive lawmakers contributing to a surge in grassroots adoption. Key policy moves, such as the establishment of the Pakistan Crypto Council and plans for a dedicated crypto regulator, have further fueled this growth. Statista estimates that the number of crypto users in Pakistan will reach 28 million by 2026, out of a population of 250 million. TRM Labs highlights that in some regions, adoption has accelerated due to regulatory clarity and institutional access, while in others, it has grown despite formal restrictions or bans.
Despite crackdowns on exchanges and capital controls in certain countries, crypto adoption continues to rise. Bangladesh, for instance, has no licensed platforms for legal operation, and its central bank has issued warnings about crypto use since 2014. However, ongoing capital controls and limited access to foreign exchange have made crypto an appealing alternative for individuals. Bangladesh ranks 14th globally for adoption, despite its restrictive stance. Similar trends are observed in North African countries like Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia, where crypto is either banned or restricted, yet they rank in the top 50 for worldwide adoption. A report by the Financial Stability Board and the International Monetary Fund in September 2023 supports the notion that blanket bans are ineffective and often increase incentives for cryptocurrency use.