
Nomura: 4/5 Institutional Investors to Invest in Crypto
Nomura's 2026 Digital Asset Institutional Investor Survey reveals that almost four out of five institutional investors plan to invest between 2% and 5% of their total assets under management into cryptocurrencies, with a focus on DeFi yield strategies. Nomura four five institutional investors are driving this trend.
Institutional Investment in Cryptocurrencies
The survey, which covered institutional investors managing over $60 billion, found that 65% now see crypto as a diversification tool, putting it alongside stocks, bonds, and commodities. However, challenges still persist, including the lack of clear ways to value assets, ongoing volatility, and uncertainty around regulation.
DeFi Yield and Stablecoins
Institutional investors are pursuing cryptocurrency yield strategies rather than just token price appreciation, with over two-thirds of respondents wanting exposure to decentralised finance mechanics like staking. 63% are targeting lending and tokenised assets, and 63% are exploring derivatives and stablecoins.
Stablecoin Use Cases
- Managing cash
- Making cross-border payments
- Trading currencies
- Investing in crypto and tokenised assets
Key Takeaways
- 80% of institutional investors plan to invest in cryptocurrencies
- DeFi yield strategies are a top focus for institutional investors
- Stablecoins are seen as a key driver of growth, with 63% of respondents seeing real uses for them
- Institutional investment in cryptocurrencies is expected to accelerate due to regulatory reforms and increased participation
Frequently Asked Questions
What is driving institutional investment in cryptocurrencies?
Institutional investors are driven by the potential for diversification and yield in the cryptocurrency market, as well as the development of a diverse range of investment products and improvements in risk management practices.
What are the challenges facing institutional investment in cryptocurrencies?
The lack of clear regulations, ongoing volatility, and uncertainty around valuation are major challenges facing institutional investment in cryptocurrencies, but regulatory reforms and increased participation are expected to accelerate investment.



