Cryptocurrency Skepticism Hits New High as US Policymakers Push Alternative Assets

A new survey from The National Institute on Retirement Security found that 77% of Americans consider cryptocurrency in workplace retirement plans to be risky, with 46% viewing it as very risky. Only 23% of respondents think crypto is a safe investment option for retirement. This skepticism comes at a time when concerns over retirement security are mounting, with 80% of Americans saying the US faces a retirement crisis.

The survey also revealed that 68% of respondents believe it's becoming harder to prepare for retirement, while 77% say debt prevents them from saving adequately. The National Institute on Retirement Security conducted the survey between Oct. 24 and Nov. 14, 2025, which included 1,203 Americans aged 25 and older.

Despite the widespread skepticism towards crypto in retirement plans, US policymakers have taken steps to broaden access to alternative assets in 401(k)s. In May 2025, the Department of Labor rescinded guidance that had urged 401(k) plan fiduciaries to exercise 'extreme care' when considering cryptocurrency investments.

The Trump administration has also signed an executive order aimed at expanding access to alternative assets in defined-contribution retirement plans, including investment vehicles that hold digital assets. The Labor Department has proposed rules outlining how 401(k) fiduciaries could include alternative assets in investment lineups, which have faced pushback from lawmakers.