A Study on Cryptocurrency Adoption and Investor Perception at ICICI Bank

Abstract

This study, titled "A Study on Cryptocurrency Adoption and Investor Perception at ICICI Bank," explores the behavioral dynamics, adoption drivers, and risk perceptions of retail and high-net-worth (HNI) investors regarding digital assets. With the global rise of decentralized finance (DeFi) and fintech innovations, commercial banks in emerging economies face structural shifts in customer capital allocation. The research employs a descriptive and analytical methodology, using data from digital payment channels, annual bank disclosures, and customer surveys to evaluate the factors influencing cryptocurrency awareness and investment trends at ICICI Bank. Financial feasibility models and risk appraisal metrics are developed to evaluate the economic viability of bank-led digital asset advisory services over a five-year planning horizon (2021-2025). The data analysis indicates that while potential for high returns remains the primary driver of crypto adoption (42%), significant barriers such as regulatory uncertainty (45% for HNIs) and market volatility (42% for retail) continue to inhibit widespread mainstream integration. The study identifies distinct demographic correlations, with younger cohorts (age 18-30) exhibiting the highest adoption rates and technology index scores. The findings demonstrate that strategically designed banks can offer secure, structured cryptocurrency investment products that yield high risk-adjusted returns while complying with domestic regulatory guidelines. The paper concludes that retail banking integration with digital asset advisory services represents a viable long-term business opportunity for ICICI Bank, contributing to customer retention, asset management growth, and technological leadership in Indias financial sector. Keywords: Cryptocurrency, Investor Perception, ICICI Bank, Fintech Adoption, Behavioral Finance, Blockchain, Risk Assessment.