Most Americans view crypto in retirement plans as risky, survey finds
Survey shows skepticism toward crypto in retirement savings
A recent survey by the National Institute on Retirement Security found that 77% of Americans consider cryptocurrency a risky option for workplace retirement plans. The survey, conducted in late 2025, highlights growing concerns about retirement security in the U.S.
Of those surveyed, 46% described crypto as "very risky," while 53% opposed employers offering it as an investment choice. The findings come as U.S. policymakers push to expand access to alternative assets, including digital currencies, in retirement accounts like 401(k)s.
Key findings from the survey
- 77% of Americans view crypto in retirement plans as risky.
- 46% consider it "very risky."
- 53% oppose employers offering crypto as an investment option.
- 80% believe the U.S. faces a retirement crisis, up from 67% in 2020.
- 61% worry about achieving financial security in retirement.
- 68% say saving for retirement is becoming harder.
- 77% cite debt as a barrier to adequate retirement savings.
Government moves to expand crypto in retirement plans
Despite public skepticism, U.S. regulators and the Trump administration have taken steps to broaden access to alternative assets, including cryptocurrency, in retirement accounts. In May 2025, the U.S. Department of Labor rescinded guidance that had warned 401(k) plan managers to use "extreme care" when considering crypto investments. Instead, it adopted a neutral stance that neither endorses nor discourages crypto in retirement plans.
On August 7, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at expanding access to alternative assets in defined-contribution retirement plans. The order directed the Labor Department and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission to explore regulatory changes to make it easier for retirement plans to include digital assets.
In March 2026, the Labor Department proposed new rules outlining how 401(k) plans could include alternative assets. The proposal includes safe harbors to reduce legal risks but requires plan managers to consider factors like fees, liquidity, and performance. However, some lawmakers, including Sens. Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren, have opposed the proposal, citing crypto’s volatility and insufficient investor protections.
What is confirmed
- The survey was conducted by Greenwald Research between October 24 and November 14, 2025, with 1,203 Americans aged 25 and older.
- 77% of respondents view crypto in retirement plans as risky, and 53% oppose its inclusion.
- The U.S. Department of Labor rescinded 2021 guidance discouraging alternative assets in 401(k) plans in August 2025.
- President Trump signed an executive order in August 2025 to expand access to alternative assets in retirement plans.
- The Labor Department proposed new rules in March 2026 for including alternative assets in 401(k) plans.
What is still unclear
- Whether the Labor Department’s proposed rules will be finalized or face further opposition.
- How public opinion might shift if crypto becomes more widely available in retirement plans.
- Whether the proposed safe harbors will effectively reduce legal risks for plan managers.
Why this matters for retirement savers
The survey reflects widespread concern about the risks of including cryptocurrency in retirement plans. While policymakers are moving to expand access to alternative assets, many Americans remain skeptical, particularly amid broader worries about retirement security and financial stability.
For retirement savers, the debate highlights the tension between potential investment opportunities and the need for safeguards. The proposed rules aim to balance these concerns, but the outcome remains uncertain as lawmakers and regulators continue to weigh the risks and benefits.
Sources
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