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A new report from Credible says 77% of Americans are now involved in high-risk financial activities—from trading stocks on their own to investing in cryptocurrency and online betting.
The numbers are eye-opening:
- 60% of Americans trade stocks independently
- 40% invest in cryptocurrency
- 37% participate in online betting
- 27% use online casino platforms
On average, Americans put about $3,000 into these activities over the past year. Even more concerning, 13% say they plan to borrow money in 2026 to invest or gamble.
Here in Poteau, We Understand Risk—But This Is Different
For folks here in Poteau and across Le Flore County, taking financial risks isn’t something new. Our history is rooted in industries like farming, ranching, and coal mining—where uncertainty was just part of life. Generations before us made tough calls just to keep food on the table.
But what we’re seeing now feels different.
Instead of risking money on crops, cattle, or a small business, more people are putting it into apps, digital coins, and online betting platforms—sometimes with money they don’t even have.
A Word of Caution for Our Community
I’ve talked to enough people around Poteau to know that most folks here value hard work and common sense. That’s why this trend is worth paying attention to.
Borrowing money to invest or gamble isn’t just risky—it can put families in a tough spot fast.
Opportunities are out there, no doubt. But here in our part of Oklahoma, we’ve always known one thing to be true: if it sounds too easy, it usually is.
As these trends grow, it’s important we keep that mindset—looking out for ourselves, our neighbors, and the next generation.
Original article HERE.
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