Most Americans See Crypto in Retirement Plans as Risky: Survey

A recent survey by The National Institute on Retirement Security found that a significant majority of Americans view cryptocurrency in workplace retirement plans as risky. According to the survey, which was conducted between October 24 and November 14, 2025, 77% of respondents considered crypto in workplace retirement plans risky, with 46% labeling it 'very risky'. This skepticism comes as concerns over retirement security mount across the United States.

The survey also found that 53% of Americans oppose employers offering cryptocurrency as an investment option in retirement plans. Additionally, a significant majority of respondents expressed concern about achieving financial security in retirement, with 61% citing this as a worry. Affordability pressures are also weighing on retirement savings, with 68% saying it is becoming harder to prepare for retirement and 77% stating that debt prevents them from saving adequately.

Despite these concerns, US policymakers have moved to broaden access to alternative assets in retirement accounts. In May 2025, the US Department of Labor rescinded guidance urging 401(k) plan fiduciaries to exercise 'extreme care' when considering cryptocurrency investments, returning instead to a neutral approach. President Donald Trump's executive order in August 2025 aimed at expanding access to alternative assets in defined-contribution retirement plans has also been met with regulatory changes.

The Labor Department proposed rules outlining how 401(k) fiduciaries could include alternative assets in investment lineups, including safe harbors intended to reduce litigation risks. However, this proposal has faced pushback from lawmakers, who argue that the volatility of cryptocurrency and insufficient investor safeguards are concerns that must be addressed.