Authors: Mrs.Anita Verma
Abstract: Cryptocurrency is transforming the way individuals perceive money, savings, and investment decisions across the world. In recent years, India has emerged as one of the fastest-growing markets for cryptocurrency adoption, particularly among young and educated investors. Reports such as the Chainalysis Global Crypto Adoption Index (2023) and observations by the Reserve Bank of India (2023) highlight a steady rise in cryptocurrency participation, reflecting growing curiosity, technological awareness, and expectations of higher returns. Despite this expansion, cryptocurrency investment in India continues to face challenges in the form of regulatory uncertainty, high volatility, security risks, and limited financial literacy. The present study examines the investment behavior, awareness, and perceptions towards cryptocurrency among investors associated with higher education institutions in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Using primary data collected from 140 respondents through a structured questionnaire, the study analyses demographic characteristics, income and investment patterns, risk tolerance, portfolio composition, and specific attitudes towards cryptocurrency. Descriptive statistical tools, supported by tables and charts, are used for analysis. The findings reveal that although awareness about cryptocurrency is relatively high among educated investors, actual participation remains limited. Most respondents prefer traditional investment avenues such as mutual funds and equity markets, allocating only a small portion of their income to cryptocurrency. High perceived risk, lack of regulatory clarity, and security concerns act as major deterrents. The study concludes that cryptocurrency is currently viewed as a supplementary or speculative investment rather than a core financial asset. The paper offers region-specific insights and contributes to the growing literature on cryptocurrency investment behaviour in India.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18296407
