Survey Reveals Crypto Adoption is Essential as 72% of Finance Leaders Show Commitment

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As institutions consider partners for tokenization, security certifications are paramount. A significant 97% indicated that standards like ISO and SOC II are essential, highlighting that trust, alongside technology, is crucial in institutional crypto finance deals.

Growing Importance of Stablecoins in Financial Services

A recent survey by Ripple, published on Thursday, indicates that 72% of over 1,000 global finance executives believe that their firms need to offer digital asset solutions to stay competitive.

Ripple surveyed more than 1,000 global finance leaders in 2026. Notable findings include:

72% see digital assets as crucial for competitiveness

74% believe stablecoins serve as a cash-flow tool beyond just payments

89% indicate growing digital asset acceptance
— Ripple (@Ripple) March 19, 2026

This survey included participants from banks, asset management firms, fintech companies, and corporate entities across various markets. A remarkable insight was the unique strategies different types of firms are adopting in their approach to digital assets.

Fintech firms are rapidly innovating and developing their own infrastructures, with 47% of fintech respondents expressing plans to build in-house digital asset systems.

Ripple Survey Details Source: Ripple

In contrast, many corporate firms — nearly 75% — prefer collaborating with external providers. Meanwhile, banks and asset managers seek a middle ground, aiming to partner with experienced providers who can offer both strategic insight and technological solutions.

Among various digital assets, stablecoins received the most attention. Ripple reported that 74% of those surveyed affirm that stablecoins can enhance cash flow management and unlock capital that would otherwise remain unutilized.

Stablecoins and Cash Flow Source: Ripple

According to Ripple, institutions are beginning to view stablecoins not merely as payment tools, but as vital assets for managing treasury operations.

The Rising Priority of Asset Custody

Tokenization is also increasingly recognized as important. However, institutions are cautious, with 89% of those evaluating potential tokenization partners identifying secure asset storage as a critical need. Additionally, 82% highlighted the necessity of token lifecycle management, with primary distribution ranking at 80%.

Bitcoin Chart BTCUSD currently trading at $70,593. Chart: TradingView

Importantly, banks are showing a strong desire for advisory support. Data from the survey reveal that 85% of bank respondents consider pre-issuance structuring guidance essential. Asset managers are close behind at 76%. This trend indicates that institutions are not merely investing in crypto infrastructure; they are seeking guidance on effective utilization.

Ripple attributes the increased prioritization of digital assets to several factors: evolving regulations, heightened interest from leading banks, the broader use of fintech services, and the ongoing growth of stablecoins.

The survey results indicate a significant shift within the industry. The central discussion has transitioned from whether to engage with crypto towards identifying partners and developing strategies. This change marks a pivotal moment in how established financial institutions are beginning to acknowledge and embrace the cryptocurrency landscape.

Key Takeaways:

72% of finance executives believe digital assets are necessary for competitiveness.
74% of respondents see stablecoins as crucial for cash flow management.
Security certifications are critical for institutions when selecting partners for tokenization.
The trend indicates a shift from questioning crypto involvement to focusing on partnerships and strategic development within the sector.