Enhanced clarity in cryptocurrency regulations has led to a remarkable 125% increase in global retail crypto transactions for two consecutive years, as reported by TRM Labs.
Retail crypto transactions worldwide surged over 125% from January to September 2025, mirroring similar growth witnessed in 2024, according to the blockchain intelligence company in its latest Crypto Adoption and Stablecoin Usage Report released on Tuesday.
The majority of this activity is linked to practical applications like payments, remittances, and value preservation during economic volatility, highlighting the growing role of individuals in the industry’s development.
“As the ecosystem has grown, the footprint of crypto activity has diversified, with structured service providers and institutional players influencing transaction trends.”
Regulatory clarity fosters confidence
In the United States, TRM Labs noted that the growth trend starting in 2023 and continuing into 2024 has been bolstered by a mix of political, regulatory, and structural factors, welcoming new market participants.
“The US market’s consecutive years of double-digit growth signify not only enthusiasm but also the cumulative impact of regulatory clarity and political determination,” the report stated.
Since the beginning of the year, the US has made significant advancements in crypto regulations, including initiatives like the GENIUS Act focused on stablecoins, the CLARITY Act concerning market structure, and its collaborative taskforce with the United Kingdom.
Simultaneously, Pakistan’s cryptocurrency landscape has also thrived due to supportive lawmakers, TRM Labs reported, marking a rise in grassroots adoption further supported by policy initiatives like the establishment of the Pakistan Crypto Council and plans for a dedicated crypto regulatory body.
The number of cryptocurrency users in Pakistan is projected to reach 28 million by 2026, according to Statista, against a backdrop of a population of 250 million.
“In various regions, adoption has accelerated as a response to regulatory clarity and institutional access; in others, the expansion has occurred despite formal restrictions or outright bans,” the firm asserted.
“These contrasting trends indicate a consistent direction: crypto is increasingly integrating into the mainstream financial system. A significant trend driving this shift is the rise of stablecoins.”
Restrictions are counterproductive
The increase in crypto adoption has persisted even amidst crackdowns on exchanges and capital controls in certain nations, according to TRM Labs.
In Bangladesh, there are no legally licensed platforms, and since 2014, the central bank, Bangladesh Bank, has issued warnings regarding cryptocurrency usage.
“However, ongoing capital controls and limited foreign exchange access have made crypto an appealing option for those seeking alternatives to traditional financial systems,” TRM Labs noted.
Related: Older, wealthier investors could drive crypto adoption through 2100
A similar trend is emerging in several North African nations like Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia, where crypto activities face bans or restrictions; nonetheless, all four countries rank within the top 50 for global adoption.
“Interestingly, these regions outrank several countries with more permissive or regulated frameworks, indicating that grassroots demand for alternative financial tools can surpass formal prohibitions.”
A report published by the Financial Stability Board, a global body for financial regulations, and the International Monetary Fund in September 2023, concluded that blanket bans are ineffective and often incentivize individuals to turn to cryptocurrencies.
Magazine: Ether’s price poised for a significant rise, Ripple seeks $1B XRP purchase: Hodler’s Digest, Oct. 12 – 18
