Trump Set to Unlock 401(k)s for Crypto, Gold, and Private Equity Boom

President Donald Trump is on the verge of signing an executive order that could revolutionize 401(k) retirement plans by allowing investments in cryptocurrencies, gold, and private equity alternatives. This landmark move would expand the traditional retirement portfolio beyond stocks and bonds to include digital assets, metals, infrastructure funds, and private loans.

The anticipated executive order, expected imminently, directs federal regulators to eliminate existing barriers blocking these alternative investments from entering retirement savings. This regulatory push marks a potential turning point for how Americans invest their retirement funds, with an estimated $9 trillion at stake.

Opening Doors to Digital Wealth Diversification

Currently, 401(k) plans primarily focus on mutual funds, stocks, and bonds. The move to allow cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and other digital assets reflects growing institutional acceptance and demand for portfolio diversification. Earlier labor department guidance that discouraged crypto inclusion was rescinded this year, setting the stage for this expansion.

The proposed order would compel agencies like the Department of Labor and Securities and Exchange Commission to remove obstacles and clarify rules enabling retirement accounts to allocate funds to crypto, gold bullion, private equity ventures, and infrastructure investment funds. This could spark widespread adoption, as institutional investors and private equity giants such as Blackstone, Apollo, and BlackRock stand ready to serve these new market segments within retirement plans.

“We’re poised to open new investment horizons for everyday Americans, safeguarding their financial futures in a rapidly evolving economy,” a White House spokesperson said. However, official confirmation hinges on Trump’s personal approval.

Global Trends and State-Level Momentum

The United States is not alone in exploring crypto for retirement funds. The UK saw pension allocations partially invested in Bitcoin, while Japan’s Government Pension Investment Fund is reviewing crypto for diversification benefits.

At home, some states are proactively integrating cryptocurrency. North Carolina lawmakers proposed bills allowing up to 5% of state retirement funds to flow into digital assets. The Michigan and Wisconsin state retirement systems already hold Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF positions worth millions.

This surge in interest reflects a broader shift in retirement investment philosophy, moving beyond conventional asset classes toward alternatives that promise higher returns and hedging potential against inflation and market volatility.