Only 40% of Americans trust traditional banks – survey
A new survey conducted by the DeFi Education Fund and Ipsos shows that 42% of Americans would consider trying DeFi if lawmakers pass clear regulations. Their motivation is greater control and fewer intermediaries.
A survey conducted in late August by the DeFi Education Fund and Ipsos polled 1,321 U.S. adults. Respondents were asked a simple question: if Congress passes clear rules for the crypto industry, would you try out DeFi?
According to the results, 42% said yes. Of those, 9% described themselves as “extremely or very likely” to try, while another 33% said they were “somewhat likely.” The numbers suggest growing interest in a technology still seen as niche by most Americans.
Less than half of the respondents said the current financial system meets their needs, and only 25% believe it can benefit ordinary people. Trust in banks was also weak: only 40% expressed confidence in large federal institutions, and 43% in regional or local banks.
Overall, only 29% said they trust the financial system, and many worry about surveillance and security. Against this backdrop, the demand for clear rules for new technology looks like an attempt to find a viable alternative.
Expectations for a regulated DeFi sector focus largely on practical benefits. 56% of respondents expect full control over their money, and 51% see this as an opportunity to transfer money directly without intermediaries. Nearly 40% believe decentralized protocols could help reduce fees charged by traditional financial services.
When asked where they might use DeFi, respondents pointed to everyday scenarios. A majority mentioned online shopping, paying mandatory bills, and protecting their capital from inflation. At the same time, only 12% of those surveyed described themselves as “very” or “extremely” interested in cryptocurrencies overall, suggesting that potential DeFi adoption would depend more on utility than ideology.
