Survey: 77% of Americans view crypto in workplace retirement plans as risky
More than three-quarters of Americans consider cryptocurrency a risky investment for workplace retirement plans, according to a National Institute on Retirement Security survey.
The survey found that 77% of respondents see crypto in retirement accounts as risky, including 46% who consider it “very risky.” About 53% oppose employers offering cryptocurrency as an investment option.
Broader retirement concerns are also increasing. Around 80% of respondents said the U.S. faces a retirement crisis, up from 67% in 2020, while 61% expressed concern about achieving financial security in retirement. Meanwhile, 77% said debt is preventing them from saving enough.
The findings contrast with recent U.S. policy efforts to broaden access to alternative assets in 401(k) plans. The Trump administration and Labor Department have moved toward a more neutral regulatory approach, potentially allowing retirement plans greater exposure to crypto and other nontraditional investments.
In March 2026, the Labor Department proposed rules outlining how 401(k) fiduciaries could include alternative assets while considering factors such as fees, liquidity, valuation and performance. The proposal has faced opposition from some Democratic lawmakers, who cited crypto volatility and investor-protection concerns.
More than three-quarters of Americans consider cryptocurrency a risky investment for workplace retirement plans, according to a National Institute on Retirement Security survey.
The survey found that 77% of respondents see crypto in retirement accounts as risky, including 46% who consider it “very risky.” About 53% oppose employers offering cryptocurrency as an investment option.
Broader retirement concerns are also increasing. Around 80% of respondents said the U.S. faces a retirement crisis, up from 67% in 2020, while 61% expressed concern about achieving financial security in retirement. Meanwhile, 77% said debt is preventing them from saving enough.
The findings contrast with recent U.S. policy efforts to broaden access to alternative assets in 401(k) plans. The Trump administration and Labor Department have moved toward a more neutral regulatory approach, potentially allowing retirement plans greater exposure to crypto and other nontraditional investments.
In March 2026, the Labor Department proposed rules outlining how 401(k) fiduciaries could include alternative assets while considering factors such as fees, liquidity, valuation and performance. The proposal has faced opposition from some Democratic lawmakers, who cited crypto volatility and investor-protection concerns.