Singapore was the first on the list, with a solid infrastructure and good works focused on the adoption of these technologies.

The study ranked nations using a composite index that incorporated key metrics, including blockchain patents, jobs in blockchain technology, and the number of crypto exchanges. To ensure fair comparisons, the data was adjusted relative to population size.

1. Singapore

With a composite score of 85.4, Singapore leads the global rankings. Known for its progressive approach to technology, the country has over 2,400 blockchain-related jobs and 81 crypto exchanges. Its extensive patent activity further makes it a hub for innovation and adoption.

2. Hong Kong

Scoring 82.7, Hong Kong combines financial expertise with blockchain integration. The city hosts 1,100 jobs in blockchain technology and 52 crypto exchanges, showing its huge role in the crypto economy.

3. Estonia

Even though Estonia is one of the smallest countries on the list, it ranks third with a score of 81.5. Known for its digital-first policies, it has 95 blockchain patents, 52 exchanges, and 149 blockchain-related jobs, ascertaining that size is no barrier to innovation.

4. Switzerland

A global innovator in decentralised finance, Switzerland scores 80.2. The country supports 440 blockchain jobs and operates 32 crypto exchanges, speaking loads about its status as a blockchain-friendly nation.

5. United States

With the highest numbers across most metrics, the United States ranks fifth, scoring 79.8. It leads innovation with 32,000 blockchain patents, employs over 17,000 people in blockchain-related roles, and hosts 166 crypto exchanges.

6. Canada

Canada takes sixth place with a score of 77.3. Its 1,200 blockchain patents and an equal number of jobs in the sector highlight its growing focus on blockchain technology. The country also operates 32 crypto exchanges, offering a stable market for cryptocurrencies.

7. Australia

Scoring 76.8, Australia shows strong progress with 1,400 blockchain patents and 573 jobs in the field. Its 31 crypto exchanges further emphasise the country’s commitment to expanding its blockchain ecosystem.

8. South Korea

With a score of 75.4, South Korea stands out for its commendable 18,000 blockchain patents, the second-highest on the list. However, its smaller workforce of 121 blockchain jobs and 29 crypto exchanges places it in the eighth position.

9. United Kingdom

The UK secures the ninth spot with a score of 74.9. It has a strong presence in the crypto market, operating 95 exchanges and offering 2,673 blockchain-related jobs. The country’s 2,800 blockchain patents also reiterates its focus on innovation.

10. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE rounds off the list with a score of 73.2. It has steadily grown its blockchain ecosystem, having 340 patents, 414 blockchain jobs, and nine crypto exchanges, focusing on strategic adoption rather than scale.

A spokesperson from ApeX shared their perspective on the findings: “Blockchain technology is no longer just a niche innovation; it has become a cornerstone for digital transformation across industries. The countries leading in this space are not just embracing the technology but are actively shaping its future. What stands out is how diverse approaches—whether through regulatory clarity, investment in talent, or fostering innovation—are paving the way for global adoption. This reflects a broader shift toward decentralization and transparency, which are becoming essential in today’s interconnected economy.”

To access the full research, please follow this link.

“The one-day Latitude59 will take place in Nairobi, Kenya already this December in partnership with global fintech leader – Admirals.

According to Ms. Liisi Org, CEO of Latitude59, the main ambition of the move is to initiate conversations in an important target market for Estonia.

“The motto of our spring conference was ‘Be Bold. Let’s be bold and build the world we want to live in”. Several African countries and Estonia have been in each other’s interest for many years, both in the business and the public sector, and a number of Estonian start-ups are already operating in different African countries. It is only fitting to give a boost to the cooperation by bringing people together at Latitude59 on the spot,” said Org.

Kenya is an influential country in the region, and Estonia’s experience in developing society and promoting digital governance is valued. “Estonia’s economic and trade relations with African countries are intensifying, and there is a lot of interest on both sides. Latitude59 aims to create global bridges between startup ecosystems in different countries,” said Org.

But great things are not done alone. “Latitude59’s partner in this is Admirals, which is active in several African countries in addition to Estonia and other regions,” said Org. Project partner Admirals (formerly Admiral Markets) is a fintech company founded in Estonia with clients in over 135 countries.

Admirals is headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia. “Throughout its history, Admirals has invested in education and innovation. Being licensed in Kenya, we have a long-standing interest in contributing to financial literacy and investor education. An event of this format is a good place to create synergies. In addition to the conference, we are contributing to the growth of a community that we can support and grow in a meaningful way,” said Boriss Gubaidulin, Admirals’ Africa Director.

According to Mr. Gubaidulin, Admirals has extensive experience in Africa with business delegations who appreciate Estonia as a digital country and a mecca for start-ups, where doing business is encouraged locally and internationally.

“We are pleased to jointly lead and support the Estonian success story in Kenya and encourage local initiatives and the unity of the startup community,” added Gubaidulin.

Latitude59 was held for the 11th time in May this year and brought together participants from 67 countries, including a large number of government representatives, who were attracted by the unity of the Estonian startup ecosystem and the conference’s mission to create a better world through technology and innovation. Taking place on December 7th in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, the technology sector conference is called “Latitude59 Kenya edition”.

It will bring together the Estonian and Kenyan startup ecosystems to support the global startup community and to support the sustainable development of Estonian and African businesses, contributing to the “global village” concept.

The project is supported by ESTDEV – The Estonian Centre for International Development.