#macro

Trump opened 401(k) for crypto and private equity

On August 7, 2025, Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the U.S. Department of Labor and SEC to remove barriers to including alternative assets — cryptocurrencies, private equity, private credit, and real estate — in 401(k) retirement plans.

What is important:

Crypto will not automatically appear on the menu — regulators and plan administrators will decide.

The first products are expected in 2026, most likely through funds and managed accounts.

Fiduciaries will bear full responsibility for the selection of complex and illiquid assets.

Pros: diversification, access to the premiums of private markets, tax benefits of 401(k).

Cons: high volatility (especially crypto), fees, limited liquidity, complexity for the average investor.

What to do now:

Monitor the plan menu.

If an alternative appears — assess the share moderately (5–15%).

Watch for fees and liquidity conditions.