A fresh report has spotlighted Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the globe’s most “crypto-obsessed” nations, topping rankings for ownership, search activity, and rapid adoption growth. Released on September 28, 2025, by decentralized derivatives exchange ApeX Protocol, the study assigns composite scores based on key metrics, with Singapore claiming a perfect 100 and the UAE a near-flawless 99.7. This duo’s dominance underscores a broader crypto renaissance, where nearly a quarter of Singaporeans and over a quarter of Emiratis own digital assets—far outpacing global averages. As Bitcoin hovers near $120,000 and institutional inflows swell, these hubs are redefining financial innovation, blending regulatory clarity with cultural enthusiasm.
For crypto enthusiasts, investors, and policymakers, the report signals why these tax-friendly, tech-savvy locales are magnets for blockchain ventures. With the US rounding out the podium at 98.5, the top three reflect a mix of Eastern agility and Western infrastructure. Let’s unpack the rankings, driving factors, and what this means for the $2 trillion crypto ecosystem.
The ApeX Protocol Rankings: Metrics Behind the Obsession
ApeX’s analysis evaluates countries on four pillars: crypto ownership rate, adoption growth since 2019, Google search volume (queries per 100,000 people), and ATM infrastructure. Ownership carries the heaviest weight, rewarding nations where digital assets are household norms. Singapore’s lead stems from its explosive search interest (2,000 queries/100,000 people) and doubled ownership from 11% in 2021 to 24.4% today. The UAE edges out in raw ownership at 25.3%—the world’s highest—fueled by a 210% adoption surge since 2019, peaking at over 34% in 2022.
Top three at a glance:
| Rank | Country | Composite Score | Ownership Rate | Adoption Growth (Since 2019) | Search Queries/100K | Key Infrastructure Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Singapore | 100 | 24.4% | 150%+ | 2,000 (global #1) | Robust regs via MAS; blockchain initiatives. |
| 2 | UAE | 99.7 | 25.3% (global #1) | 210% | High (top 5) | Zero taxes on trading/staking; 10/10 tax-friendliness. |
| 3 | USA | 98.5 | 15.5% | 220% | Strong | 30,000+ ATMs (10x any other country). |
Switzerland trails at seventh (46.2), boasting 2,100 search queries/100K—second only to Singapore—thanks to “Cryptocurrency Valley.” Emerging players like Canada and Turkey show fast growth, blending accessibility with regulatory progress.
Why Singapore and UAE? Regulatory Havens Meet Cultural Buzz
These rankings aren’t coincidental; both nations have engineered crypto-friendly ecosystems:
- Singapore’s Pull: As Asia’s fintech capital, it boasts clear Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) guidelines, fostering startups and exchanges. Ownership doubled post-2021, with 11.5% of locals eyeing crypto careers—the highest globally. Yet, a June 2025 MAS deadline curbed unlicensed firms, prompting liquidity shifts but solidifying its safe-haven status.
- UAE’s Surge: Dubai’s zero-tax regime on crypto activities (trading, staking, mining) scores a perfect 10 for friendliness, drawing millionaires (241,700 globally in 2025, per Henley Crypto Wealth Report). Adoption exploded 210% since 2019, with VARA (Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority) licensing over 50 firms.
Both exemplify how policy shapes obsession: Singapore leads in engagement (searches reflect curiosity), while UAE excels in penetration (ownership as daily finance). As one analyst noted, “It’s becoming part of how countries define their financial future—not just investment, but trust in digital money.”
Broader Implications: Crypto’s Global Reshaping and Investor Signals
This obsession duo highlights crypto’s maturation: From speculative frenzy to mainstream utility, with 5 billion potential users one “growth cycle” away. Singapore and UAE’s scores signal safe bets for relocation—UAE’s top-5 crypto-friendliness (per Henley Index) lures wealth, while Singapore tops adoption overall. The US’s third place, boosted by Bitcoin ETF inflows and 220% usage rise, underscores infrastructure’s role amid regulatory clarity.
For investors: Prioritize these hubs for exposure—UAE’s tax perks amplify returns, Singapore’s searches predict trends. Entrepreneurs: Build here for talent and capital; UAE’s ecosystem rivals Switzerland’s. Regulators: Emulate their balance—clarity without stifling—to capture the $2T+ wave.
Challenges linger: Volatility (Bitcoin’s swings) and regs (e.g., Singapore’s crackdown) could temper hype, but growth metrics point upward.
Conclusion: Singapore and UAE – Crypto’s Twin Pillars in 2025
Singapore and the UAE’s reign as the most crypto-obsessed countries cements their status as innovation beacons, where 24-25% ownership and explosive growth redefine finance. As adoption surges—Singapore’s searches, UAE’s taxes—these nations aren’t just participating; they’re pioneering crypto’s future. With the US close behind, expect fiercer global competition for digital dominance. cryptotelegraph
