Trump opens the door for private equity and crypto as 401(k) retirement plan options

President Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to allow 401(k) retirement plans to include higher‑risk investments like private equity and cryptocurrencies. While no immediate changes will occur, new rules could eventually let employers offer these alternatives, opening trillions in retirement funds to industries long seeking access. This move rewards private equity and crypto sectors, which have supported Trump’s campaign, contrasting with the previous Biden administration’s cautious stance on crypto due to its volatility. Although private equity offers higher historical returns, it is less liquid than stocks, the Associated Press has reported. Experts say it may take years before these investments become common in retirement plans.