Trump Targets $8.9 Trillion 401(k) Market for Crypto Expansion
Donald Trump is reportedly preparing an executive order that could open up 401(k) retirement accounts to crypto investments, signaling a major policy shift in the U.S. retirement market.
Executive Order May Pave Way for Crypto in 401(k) Plans
President Donald Trump is expected to issue an executive order aimed at expanding the range of assets available in U.S. 401(k) retirement plans, including digital currencies like Bitcoin. According to sources cited by the Financial Times, the order could be signed within the week and would direct federal agencies to assess how retirement accounts can incorporate alternative assets such as crypto, metals, private credit, and infrastructure-focused funds.
The move comes amid growing interest in diversifying retirement portfolios beyond traditional stocks and bonds, which currently dominate 401(k) offerings. As of September 2024, the U.S. 401(k) system managed approximately $8.9 trillion across more than 715,000 plans.
Regulatory Shift Follows Repeal of Biden-Era Crypto Guidance
The Trump administration’s reported move follows a regulatory rollback earlier this year. In May, the U.S. Labor Department rescinded a Biden-era policy that discouraged the inclusion of crypto in retirement plans. That policy had raised concerns about the volatility and regulatory uncertainty surrounding digital assets.
With the rollback in place, the path appears more open for federal agencies to explore mechanisms that would enable crypto integration into retirement portfolios. The forthcoming executive order is expected to focus on identifying any remaining legal or operational barriers and proposing solutions to overcome them.
White House Maintains Caution, No Official Confirmation Yet
Despite widespread reports, the White House has not yet formally confirmed the executive order. Spokesperson Kush Desai cautioned against viewing anything as official until directly announced by Trump, saying,
“President Trump is committed to restoring prosperity for everyday Americans and safeguarding their economic future. No decisions should be deemed official, however, unless they come from President Trump himself.”
Private Sector and State Governments Already Moving Ahead
While federal agencies weigh their approach, private firms and state lawmakers are already testing crypto in retirement strategies. In April, asset management giant Fidelity, which oversees $5.9 trillion, launched a retirement product allowing U.S. citizens to allocate part of their 401(k) savings into cryptocurrencies.
Separately, in March, North Carolina legislators proposed bills enabling the state’s treasurer to invest up to 5% of various public retirement funds into crypto assets.
Global Pension Funds Also Dabbling in Crypto
Internationally, pension funds are beginning to explore crypto allocations as a diversification strategy. In November last year, UK-based pension consultant Cartwright revealed that an undisclosed scheme had allocated 3% of its fund to Bitcoin. Similarly, Japan’s Government Pension Investment Fund disclosed in March that it was studying digital assets as a potential addition to its portfolio.
If signed, Trump’s executive order could mark a pivotal moment in the convergence of retirement finance and digital asset innovation, potentially opening the door for millions of Americans to access crypto through tax-advantaged retirement accounts.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice
source : https://cryptodaily.co.uk