News View Non-AMP

White House Clears Path for Crypto and Bitcoin in $14T 401(k) Plans

Published by
Steve Muchoki

The US White House has completed its review of the proposal to allow cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC) and private equity exposure in 401(k) retirement plans.

The proposal now awaits formal ruling from the Department of Labor (DOL). A positive ruling would support the flow of $13.9 trillion from defined-contribution plans, such as 401(k), into cryptocurrency investments. 

This development would further reinforce the legitimacy of the blockchain and cryptocurrency industry, possibly driving higher demands and breaking recent price consolidation in favor of a bullish reversal.

Bitcoin inclusion in retirement portfolios

The clearance from White House comes after an August 2025 executive order asking the DOL to ease restrictions on alternative assets. The latter spans private equity, real estate,  infrastructure, commodities, and cryptocurrencies.

While Bitcoin inclusion in 401(k) plans is already legal under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974, a positive review from the DOL would shift the DOL’s crypto stance away from “extreme care.”

By contrast, the former Biden administration warned against integrating cryptocurrency into retirement plans, saying volatility could wipe out entire funds and threaten economic stability.

This stance shifted in May 2025 in line with the Trump administration’s aspirations to make America a global hub for Bitcoin and cryptocurrency.

Community reaction on crypto retirement plans

The move to integrate Bitcoin and crypto into retirement portfolios has elicited divergent reactions within the community. Supporters highlight increased accessibility to high-yield digital assets, with financial gains offsetting inflationary effects on the value of fiat.

Critics note that uptake may be lower because retirement firms prioritize stable gains over speculative ones or illiquid investments like private equity.

What happens next?

Currently, the DOL maintains a neutral stance on the inclusion of crypto in retirement plans. Once it issues its upcoming ruling, a public commentary period would follow, and thereafter a final ruling.

A positive verdict would provide legal protection to fiduciaries, preventing them from being investigated or sued for including Bitcoin.

Nonetheless, the integration may take some time as retirement firms assess the benefits of such investments and develop the necessary infrastructure to support them.

Trust with CoinPedia:

CoinPedia has been delivering accurate and timely cryptocurrency and blockchain updates since 2017. All content is created by our expert panel of analysts and journalists, following strict Editorial Guidelines based on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). Every article is fact-checked against reputable sources to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Our review policy guarantees unbiased evaluations when recommending exchanges, platforms, or tools. We strive to provide timely updates about everything crypto & blockchain, right from startups to industry majors.

Investment Disclaimer:

All opinions and insights shared represent the author's own views on current market conditions. Please do your own research before making investment decisions. Neither the writer nor the publication assumes responsibility for your financial choices.

Sponsored and Advertisements:

Sponsored content and affiliate links may appear on our site. Advertisements are marked clearly, and our editorial content remains entirely independent from our ad partners.

Steve Muchoki

Steve is a crypto news writer with a passion for decoding market moves. He blends breaking blockchain news with sharp technical analysis and bold price predictions. From Bitcoin rallies to altcoin breakouts, Steve breaks it all down with clarity and insight. Whether you're a trader or just curious, his analysis keeps you ahead of the curve.

Recent Posts

UK Sanctions Crypto Exchanges for First Time Under Russia Regime

The UK government sanctioned several crypto firms on May 26 under its Russia sanctions regime,…

May 26, 2026

OKB Price Jumps After OKX Launches Exchange OS

OKB price woke up fast today, surging more than 15% after OKX rolled out Exchange…

May 26, 2026

Bitcoin Volume Crashes 81%, But That Could Actually Be Bullish for BTC Price

Bitcoin price continues to consolidate between $76K and $77K, showing resilience despite a sharp decline…

May 26, 2026

Why IMX Price Could Be Preparing Quietly For a 1000% Move?

Something interesting is happening around Immutable, and it’s not the kind of loud meme-fueled chaos…

May 26, 2026

World’s Highest IQ Holder Predicts June Could Trigger Massive Bitcoin And XRP Gains?

Seven days. That’s the latest countdown attached to another loud crypto prediction, this time from…

May 26, 2026

Ethereum Classic (ETC) Price Prediction 2026, 2027-2030: Forecast, Targets & Future Outlook

Story Highlights The live price of the ETC crypto is . Price predictions for 2026…

May 26, 2026