US 401(k) Plans Could Add Smaller Cryptocurrencies Under…
By Abdelaziz Fathi
AI summary of the source article
The US Department of Labor submitted a final rule to the White House to establish a process-based fiduciary framework for 401(k) alternative investments, including cryptocurrencies.
Why it matters
The proposal aims to reduce litigation risks for retirement plan managers considering alternative investments, including cryptocurrencies, private equity and private credit.
Key facts
- The Department of Labor submitted its final rule to the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs on November 5, 2026.
- The proposal creates a safe harbor requiring plan managers to assess performance, fees, liquidity, valuation, benchmarks, and complexity.
- The framework does not mandate offering digital assets, establish minimum market cap thresholds, or name specific cryptocurrencies.
Source excerpt · FinanceFeeds
A proposed framework that could expand cryptocurrency investments in US 401(k) retirement plans has reached the White House for final regulatory review, potentially opening the market to digital assets beyond Bitcoin and Ether. However, smaller cryptocurrencies face substantial challenges under the fiduciary standards employers must apply when selecting retirement investments.The Department of Lab…