Are investor sentiments changing? Diverging signals between institutional indifference towards crypto and retail enthusiasm for consumer finance

【Crypto World】The latest investor survey data reveals an interesting polarization phenomenon. According to sample statistics, retail investors’ optimism for fintech stocks in 2026 reaches 3.1 times, while institutional investors maintain a 2.7 times bullish multiple—this indicates how strong the consensus is between the two types of investors on the traditional fintech track. Leaders in consumer credit such as SoFi, Affirm, and Upstart have become the hottest targets right now.

However, behind this wave of enthusiasm, the cryptocurrency sector appears somewhat awkward. Although investors haven’t completely turned bearish, the once passionate enthusiasm has cooled down—now it’s more about observing and waiting. In simple terms, there’s less confidence.

What’s more heartbreaking is the attitude of institutional investors. They hold a clearly pessimistic view of the crypto asset management field. This is not just empty talk, but supported by market performance: the stock price of a leading crypto asset management company plummeted 50% over the past year, enough to illustrate the market’s indifference.

What does this reflect? It may be that investors are re-evaluating their risk tolerance, or perhaps it’s a genuine judgment of the short-term prospects of the crypto track. The shifting attention between fintech and crypto assets is a signal that market participants should ponder deeply.