# Trump Signs Executive Order to Let 401(k) Plans Hold Crypto

*Author: Bankless*
*Published: Aug 7, 2025*
*Source: https://www.bankless.com/read/trump-signs-executive-order-to-let-401-k-plans-hold-crypto*

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President Trump signed a major executive order giving regulatory agencies the green light to update retirement rules so defined-contribution plans (like 401(k)s) can include alternative and crypto assets for the first time.

### What’s The Scoop?
- **New Investment Options:** The order enables 401(k)s to invest in digital assets like crypto, private equity, and real estate instead of being limited to traditional stocks and bonds.
- **Regulatory Changes Incoming:** It directs agencies such as the Department of Labor and SEC to reassess their guidance and relieve plan sponsors of past liability fears.
- **Financial Sector Response:** Asset managers like BlackRock and Empower are already working on retirement products that tap into private markets and crypto.
- **Market Reaction:** Bitcoin and Ethereum both saw immediate price boosts following the announcement, reflecting growing investor confidence in crypto’s mainstream future.
- **Risk & Reality Check:** While the order opens the door, practical implementation could take months or years, and experts warn about higher fees, illiquidity, and increased fiduciary risk for plan sponsors.
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