Binance Research has released a report highlighting the role of cryptocurrency platforms in bridging the financial access gap, particularly in emerging markets. According to the report, 77% of Binance users in 2026 are from emerging markets, up from 49% in 2020. These users increasingly rely on crypto exchanges as 'shadow banks' for savings, payments, and investments, leveraging stablecoins for low-cost and instant transactions. The report cites data from the World Bank showing that 1.3 billion adults lack access to financial services, 4.7 billion lack credit or loans, and 1.4 billion savers in low-income countries earn no interest on deposits. Stablecoins, with transfer costs as low as $0.0001, are central to this adoption, enabling remittances and savings that traditional banking cannot provide. In Brazil, stablecoins drive 90% of crypto volume. For wallet and key holders, this trend underscores the growing utility of crypto as a practical financial tool, especially in underserved regions. However, it also raises security considerations: increased adoption may attract more phishing and private-key-leak schemes targeting new users. Institutions like Moody's have warned about risks to financial resilience and monetary sovereignty, reminding holders to prioritize secure storage and due diligence.

Key facts

• Emerging markets accounted for 77% of Binance users in 2026, up from 49% in 2020.
• 1.3 billion adults lack financial services; 4.7 billion lack credit access globally.
• Stablecoin transfers cost as low as $0.0001, compared to $20+ for SWIFT.
• 36% of emerging-market Binance users hold at least 50% of portfolio in stablecoins.
• Stablecoins drive 90% of crypto volume in Brazil, per tax authority data.