Crypto Adoption Surges Ahead of Mobile and Internet Growth, Says BlackRock
In a groundbreaking report, $10 trillion asset manager BlackRock reveals that cryptocurrency adoption has outpaced the historical growth rates of mobile phones and the internet. BlackRock’s findings highlight that the cryptocurrency industry now boasts 300 million users globally, achieving this milestone significantly faster than its technological predecessors.
The Numbers Behind the Growth
According to the report, the first cellular mobile phone, introduced in 1973, took 21 years to reach 300 million users. Similarly, the internet, which officially launched on January 1, 1983, achieved the same milestone in approximately 15 years. By contrast, the cryptocurrency sector, with Bitcoin’s inception in 2009, has accomplished this feat in just 12 years, underscoring its unprecedented adoption trajectory.
Key Drivers of Rapid Expansion
BlackRock attributes the rapid growth of the cryptocurrency sector to several factors, including increasing market capitalization and the introduction of exchange-traded funds (ETFs). As of 2025, Bitcoin’s market cap stands at $1.82 trillion, having crossed the $2 trillion mark multiple times in recent months. Prices for Bitcoin have fluctuated between $92,000 and $105,000, reflecting robust market activity.
Experts believe that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global economies. In particular, the introduction of crypto ETFs has significantly accelerated mainstream adoption. BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF (IBIT) exemplifies this trend, allowing investors to gain Bitcoin exposure through traditional brokerage accounts. By trading like a stock, ETFs such as IBIT bridge the gap between digital assets and conventional financial systems.
“The emergence of Bitcoin ETFs marks a significant milestone for both digital assets and traditional markets,” BlackRock states in its latest ETF report. The firm has also expanded its crypto offerings with the launch of a Spot Bitcoin ETF on Cboe Canada. Helen Hayes, head of iShares Canada, notes that this move underscores BlackRock’s commitment to innovation and simplifies Bitcoin exposure for Canadian investors by eliminating the complexities of self-custody.
Global Cryptocurrency Momentum
The global acceptance of cryptocurrency continues to gain traction, with several nations exploring digital assets as alternatives to traditional fiat currencies like the US dollar. This trend is expected to persist throughout the decade as governments and institutions alike recognize the transformative potential of blockchain technology and digital assets.
BlackRock’s report underscores the rapid evolution of the cryptocurrency landscape, driven by innovation, regulatory advancements, and growing investor interest. As the industry continues to break barriers, its influence on global finance is poised to grow exponentially.