U.S. President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order that could pave the way for including cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement plans, potentially changing how Americans save and invest for the future.
The White House Press Office confirmed to Cointelegraph on Thursday that the order will direct the U.S. Department of Labor to review current restrictions on alternative assets, such as digital currencies, private equity, and real estate, within defined-contribution retirement plans.
According to a senior White House official, the order will instruct the labor secretary to clarify the department’s position on these alternative investments and issue guidance on how they can be responsibly included in retirement portfolios.
Once in effect, the executive order could allow Americans to invest in digital assets through their 401(k) plans—part of the $12.5 trillion retirement market. This would offer crypto firms a major opportunity to reach more retail investors.
The move marks a major step forward for the crypto industry, which has long pushed for broader access to everyday investors and greater acceptance within the traditional financial system.
Barriers Limiting Crypto Access for Everyday Savers
While institutional investors have steadily increased their exposure to cryptocurrencies, individual savers have faced limitations due to fiduciary concerns, regulatory uncertainty, and market volatility.
According to the White House official, Trump’s order will also call for coordination between the Treasury Department and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) to explore potential regulatory changes that could support the inclusion of alternative investments like crypto in retirement plans.
Trump Reportedly Weighing Crypto Access in 401(k) Plans
On July 18, the Financial Times reported, citing unnamed sources, that President Trump was considering allowing alternative investments like cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement plans.
However, White House spokesperson Kush Desai previously told Cointelegraph that no decision should be considered official unless it comes directly from Trump. He added that the president is focused on helping everyday Americans and protecting their financial future.
