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The Commodification of Political Distrust: Do Crypto “Hodlers” Distrust Political Institutions?

Author

Listed:
  • Anton Brännlund
  • Henrik Serup Christensen

Abstract

The study investigates the link between political distrust and long‐term cryptocurrency investment, motivated by the cryptocurrency market's volatility and the potential of digital currencies to alter economic–political systems. Utilizing panel data from Finland 2022–2023 on duration of ownership and political attitudes, the research uncovers a correlation between political skepticism and long‐term investment in cryptocurrencies, suggesting a shift from conventional assets to decentralized ones. This emphasizes the role of political trust in financial decisions and proposes further exploration of its impact on cryptocurrency investments.

Suggested Citation

  • Anton Brännlund & Henrik Serup Christensen, 2025. "The Commodification of Political Distrust: Do Crypto “Hodlers” Distrust Political Institutions?," Economics and Politics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 37(2), pages 769-779, July.
  • Handle: RePEc:bla:ecopol:v:37:y:2025:i:2:p:769-779
    DOI: 10.1111/ecpo.12341
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