A recent survey by AIMA reveals a significant increase in hedge fund investment in cryptocurrency. Cointelegraph reports that 55% of global hedge funds are now investing in digital assets, marking an 8% rise from the previous year. While most hedge funds maintain a relatively small cryptocurrency allocation, typically below 2% of their portfolio, the survey indicates a strong interest in expansion. A substantial 71% of respondents plan to increase their cryptocurrency investment ratio in the coming year. Interestingly, a majority (67%) of these hedge funds prefer indirect exposure through derivatives rather than direct cryptocurrency holdings. This suggests a cautious approach, perhaps due to regulatory uncertainties or operational complexities associated with direct cryptocurrency management. The survey encompassed 122 hedge fund managers, collectively overseeing $982 billion in assets, providing a comprehensive snapshot of institutional sentiment towards cryptocurrency. The increased adoption signals a growing acceptance of digital assets within the traditional financial landscape. ```