BitTorrent users are 170% more likely to buy music than the average internet user, according to a study by the filesharing company.

Half of those questioned by the firm bought music every month, with a similar amount buying movies every month. The study found that the average user spent $48 a year on music and $54 on films.

Straith Schreder, director of content strategy for BitTorrent, said: "Over the course of the past few weeks, we’ve seen streaming positioned as both an inevitability, and an enemy. We’ve heard that we should give up on selling records, if we’re not Taylor Swift.

"We’ve heard that if it’s not free on demand, then it won’t be heard. Our users, representing a broad, global youth audience, tell us otherwise."

She added that the majority of BitTorrent users would describe themselves as "adventurous", with many focused on alternative or underground music and films.

However the survey also showed a low level of engagement in live events, with only half of respondents claiming to watch films at the cinema, and a quarter going to live music shows.

The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) has been contacted for comment.