Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday, August 7, 2025, that could allow U.S. 401(k) retirement plans to include alternative assets such as cryptocurrencies (including Bitcoin)$BTC , private equity, real estate, and more.
Here’s what’s being reported:
• The executive order instructs federal agencies — including the Department of Labor, Treasury, and SEC — to revisit and possibly revise the rules under ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) to permit alternative investments in retirement plans.
• It’s being hailed as a major shift toward modernizing retirement investments, potentially unlocking access to trillions of dollars in retirement savings — for example, the 401(k) market alone holds around $9 trillion.
• Markets responded immediately: $BTC Bitcoin climbed (e.g., to approximately $116,542), signaling strong speculation and optimism from investors.
Key Takeaway
Yes, Trump did sign the order today (August 7, 2025). However, it doesn’t mean your 401(k) will immediately include Bitcoin or other crypto. Regulatory agencies still need to reinterpret and change policies, which experts predict may take months or even years to implement fully. After that, employers and plan managers will need to develop and roll out new investment options
