Understanding the economic preferences and personal traits of cryptocurrency investors

Abstract

Since 2009, when Bitcoin's operations began, individuals, the media, and politicians have shown a growing interest in cryptocurrencies. However, little is known about the investors these financial products attract. Usingsurveys, Iinvestigate and explain the characteristics of individuals who invest in cryptocurrencies relative to investors in traditional assets and the general population. The majority of cryptocurrency investors are young men with high conscientiousness and openness but low extroversion.