US rule letting 401(k)s hold crypto reaches the White House
Why it matters
If you run US workplace pension plans or sell funds into them, clearer rules for adding crypto and other alternatives are a step closer. Plan sponsors will want a written process for picking such options.
Post to XThe short version
The US Labor Department has sent a rule to the White House for review that would make it easier for workplace retirement savings plans, known as 401(k)s, to offer cryptocurrencies and other alternative investments, The Block reported on 6 November. Americans held about $10.1tn in these plans at the end of 2025.
Here's what happened. The US Department of Labor filed a rule with OIRA, the part of the White House budget office that reviews regulations before they are published, according to The Block. The rule covers "alternative assets", including cryptocurrencies.
It follows an executive order President Donald Trump signed in August 2025, which told the department to clear the way for these assets in 401(k) plans. The department first proposed the change in March.
So what does the rule do? According to the US government's regulatory agenda, it sets out the duties employers owe their staff when choosing the investment options in a plan, and may include safe harbours, protections for employers who follow a set process.
Put it in context. Americans held roughly $10.1tn in 401(k) plans at the end of 2025, according to Investment Company Institute data cited by The Block in March.
In its filing, the department said it was still weighing the rule's costs, according to The Block. The White House review has to finish before the rule can be published.
Where this comes from
Written with AI from the sources above and checked against them before publishing. Here's how we work. This is news, not financial advice. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.
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