Closing the digital asset education gap: 21shares/FUSE advisor study

May 13, 2026

Closing the digital asset education gap: 21shares/FUSE advisor study

The digital asset landscape shifted significantly in 2025, marked by Bitcoin’s watershed all-time high of $126,000 and accelerating institutional adoption. However, a critical bottleneck remains: the digital asset education gap for registered investment advisors.

Our recent survey of over 350 financial advisors, conducted with FUSE Research Network, highlights a major challenge: 84% of advisors believe that current digital asset education is inadequate.

At 21shares, we are dedicated to solving this problem. With target digital asset allocations projected to jump from 3.8% to 6.4% over the next two years, 21shares provides the specialized expertise advisors need to lead in this evolving market.

What advisors told us:

An education gap exists
84% of all advisors feel that digital asset education materials are currently insufficient. To better serve their clients, they are prioritizing two key areas: foundational Blockchain 101 and ready-to-use client education materials.
RIAs lead the way in policy freedom
While rigid institutional policies often act as a barrier to digital asset adoption, RIAs enjoy a significant advantage. Our survey found that only 14% of RIAs face restrictive firm policies – compared to 55% at regional firms and 48% at wirehouses.
Allocations are expected to surge
Digital asset adoption is accelerating. Current users expect their target allocations to nearly double over the next two years, jumping from an average of 3.8% today to 6.4%.
Digital assets to become "core" allocations
65% of advisors currently using digital assets believe they will become a core portfolio allocation within the next two years.
The rise of hybrid portfolios
Advisor strategies are maturing. Nearly half (48%) of advisors expect to utilize a blend of active and passive digital asset strategies within the next two years, up from 40% today.
Bitcoin and Ethereum dominate
Interest remains heavily concentrated in Bitcoin and Ethereum, with a steep drop-off in engagement for altcoins. Additionally, advisors overwhelmingly prefer single-coin strategies over thematic or diversified blockchain baskets.

Our 2026 survey confirms that the digital asset market has matured. The industry has moved past "toe dipping” and into a phase of strategic, long-term commitment.

As advisors project target allocations to nearly double, the focus is shifting from simple access to sophisticated portfolio construction. While the 84% education gap is a hurdle, it also offers a competitive advantage for advisors who bridge – and therefore differentiate themselves – with specialist knowledge.

21shares is the specialist partner the US advisor community requires. By providing the insights and support advisors demand, we are ensuring the next wave of adoption is built on clarity and confidence.

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