The forces shaping the global economy are quietly setting the stage for what could be a historic surge in demand for digital assets.
According to new research from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, the combination of longer lifespans, rising productivity, and unprecedented wealth accumulation may drive investors toward cryptocurrencies well into the next century.
Rather than slowing markets, demographic aging is expected to turbocharge investment activity. The Fed’s economists estimate that by 2100, global asset demand could grow by more than 200% of GDP, fueled by older populations seeking to preserve and grow their savings. With real interest rates projected to keep falling, the search for alternative assets -from gold to Bitcoin – is only expected to intensify.
The New Logic of Global Investment
As more retirees enter the market with capital to deploy, traditional savings instruments may not deliver the returns they once did. Analysts say this environment naturally favors assets with built-in scarcity, like Bitcoin, which offers both liquidity and a hedge against monetary expansion.
The Kansas City Fed report frames this as a long-term structural transformation rather than a passing trend. If the last half-century was defined by growth through consumption, the next could be driven by global investment accumulation – an environment where crypto thrives.
Bitcoin’s Role in a Changing World
Industry leaders are already reading the demographic signals. Bitget CEO Gracy Chen believes Bitcoin will evolve into the digital equivalent of gold over the coming decades. She argues that the generation now entering its peak earning years – those aged 24 to 35, who already make up a third of all crypto holders – will reshape how wealth is stored and transferred.
“With regulatory frameworks maturing and institutional access improving, Bitcoin’s perception will shift from speculative to strategic,” Chen explained. “An aging, wealthier population will treat it as a reserve asset, much like gold became after the 1970s.”
Her view is supported by Bybit Research data showing Bitcoin’s share of investor portfolios has climbed from 25% in late 2024 to over 30% in 2025, signaling growing conviction across age groups.
Rising Wealth, Broader Risk Appetite
Crypto exchange Bitfinex sees another key driver: wealth creation itself. As personal fortunes expand globally, the appetite for new and higher-risk investments tends to rise with it.
“Higher household wealth inevitably leads to diversification,” said Bitfinex analysts. “When investors have long horizons and a solid understanding of emerging technology, they naturally lean toward assets like Bitcoin and newer blockchain projects.”
A Century of Transformation Ahead
From the Fed’s long-term projections to the shifting behavior of global investors, one message is clear – the next investment cycle could last far beyond any typical market phase. Crypto may stand at the intersection of this transition, benefiting from both generational wealth transfer and the steady march of demographic change.
By 2100, digital assets might not be considered “alternative” at all – but rather the default way humanity stores and transfers its wealth.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice. Coindoo.com does not endorse or recommend any specific investment strategy or cryptocurrency. Always conduct your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Alex is an experienced financial journalist and cryptocurrency enthusiast. With over 8 years of experience covering the crypto, blockchain, and fintech industries, he is well-versed in the complex and ever-evolving world of digital assets. His insightful and thought-provoking articles provide readers with a clear picture of the latest developments and trends in the market. His approach allows him to break down complex ideas into accessible and in-depth content. Follow his publications to stay up to date with the most important trends and topics.