Canada now 1 in 4 strong on crypto: OSC survey shows awareness and the odd false sense of security 📈

Crypto ownership among Canadians climbed to 25% in 2026, more than doubling from 10% in 2023, according to survey results released Tuesday by the Ontario Securities Commission. The OSC polled 2,360 individuals aged 18 and over between December 2025 and January 2026, finding that 59% of respondents were aware of crypto assets and 25% held them.

"Crypto markets continue to evolve, and Canadians are participating in them more than ever before," said Naizam Kanji, executive vice president of strategic regulation at the OSC. "By identifying emerging trends and behaviors with our research, we can look around corners, anticipate potential opportunities and risks, and ensure our regulatory approach supports investor protection while fostering fair and efficient markets."

The survey also pointed to growing awareness of risk, though it indicated a still-limited grasp of the industry. About 50% of crypto owners reported checking whether a platform was registered before using it, yet many investors "had some misunderstanding around regulation, insurance protections and transaction capabilities," the OSC said.

Lawmakers in Ottawa have moved on several fronts to address cryptocurrency use in the country. In April, the federal government advanced a bill that could prohibit political donations made using crypto, and proposed banning digital asset ATMs, citing concerns about fraud.