Trump to Allow Crypto in 401(k) Plans, Reshaping Retirement Access in the US

August 6, 2025 — President Donald Trump will sign an executive order that allows Americans to invest in cryptocurrencies through their 401(k) retirement plans. The move marks a major shift in US retirement investment policy.

Trump Unlocks New Crypto Access for Retirement Plans

President Trump’s executive order allows crypto to be included in 401(k) retirement plans. It directs the US Labor Department to update its stance on digital assets and issue new guidance for plan administrators.

This move will grant Americans access to the $12.5 trillion 401(k) market, opening a large door for crypto adoption among retail investors.

New Guidance and Inter-Agency Support

A senior White House official said the order instructs the Labor Secretary to explain how crypto and other alternative assets can be used responsibly in retirement plans.

The order also asks the Treasury Department and SEC to provide input. These agencies will help develop clear rules to support crypto adoption in retirement products.

Retail Exposure to Crypto Grows

Institutional investors already hold crypto, but average savers remain excluded due to regulatory concerns. Trump’s order changes that by offering retail investors a new way to add digital assets to their retirement strategy.

SEC Chair Paul Atkins emphasized the need for proper education and disclosure. He said investors must understand what they’re buying and added that transparency will be crucial.

Previous Restrictions Already Rolled Back

This executive order follows a key policy reversal. On May 28, the US Labor Department canceled its 2022 guidance that had warned against using crypto in 401(k) plans.

That decision removed a major hurdle, setting the stage for Trump’s upcoming order to expand retirement access further.