So what changed? For many, it’s the potential for outsized gains. Assets like Bitcoin have experienced significant bull runs, and investors who entered early—or timed their entry well—have seen massive returns. At the same time, the volatility has been unforgiving, and others who bought in at the wrong moment have faced steep losses, underscoring just how high the stakes can be.

But performance isn’t the only draw. Some investors like the idea of betting on the future of finance, especially because many cryptocurrencies run on decentralized blockchain technology such as Ethereum. This technology provides secure and transparent transactions without relying on a central financial institution.

And for many younger investors, the…