New rules are expanding what Americans can hold in their 401(k)s and other tax-advantaged retirement accounts. An executive order signed by President Donald Trump has opened the door for certain “alternative assets” — like private credit, private equity, and even cryptocurrencies — to be included in their portfolios. [1] Proponents say this shift “democratizes” access to investment opportunities traditionally reserved for institutions and the wealthy. Critics, however, warn that these assets carry comple ...

Core Viewpoint - The recent executive order signed by President Trump aims to increase access to alternative assets, including private equity and digital assets, for 401(k) plan participants, while emphasizing the need for fiduciaries to carefully vet these investment options to protect investors [2][4]. Group 1: Executive Order and Its Implications - The executive order titled "Democratizing Access to Alternative Assets for 401(k) Investors" directs the Department of Labor and the SEC to explore ways to enhance access to alternative assets for defined-contribution retirement plans [2][4]. - The order does not constitute legislation but serves as guidance for potential future regulations, with the Department of Labor expected to propose legislation and invite public comments [1][2]. - The order aims to address excessive fee litigation and provide protections for fiduciaries and plan sponsors considering private market assets [9]. Group 2: Fiduciary Responsibilities and Investor Protection - Fiduciaries of 401(k) plans are required to thoroughly evaluate private offerings, including the capabilities and effectiveness of investment managers, to ensure prudent investment decisions [2][5]. - The executive order emphasizes that plan administrators will continue to be held to a strict fiduciary standard, ensuring that traditional investment options remain available [6][10]. - Managed accounts may provide a way for participants to opt-in to alternative investments, ensuring appropriate disclosures and reducing claims from uninformed participants [4][8]. Group 3: Market Access and Investment Options - The inclusion of alternative assets in retirement plans could provide retail investors with access to higher-yield investments that have traditionally been available only to institutional investors [3][10]. - The order does not mandate that private market assets be offered as standalone investments but recognizes their inclusion in diversified funds managed by sophisticated investment managers [9]. - There is a long regulatory process ahead before any changes to 401(k) plans regarding alternative assets can be expected, indicating that immediate changes are unlikely [10]. Group 4: Diversification and Portfolio Management - Diversification remains a key goal for retirement portfolios, and the inclusion of alternative assets could enhance diversification, potentially reducing risk and increasing returns [8]. - Financial advisors are encouraged to assist investors in determining appropriate allocations that include both traditional and alternative investments [8]. - The traditional barriers to accessing alternative investments, such as scale and costs, may be addressed through the new regulations, allowing for better portfolio diversification [8].

Core Insights - Target-date funds have provided significant benefits to many investors, particularly in terms of simplifying retirement planning and investment strategies [1] - However, these funds are subject to substantial volatility, which can impact investor returns, especially during market downturns [1] Group 1: Benefits of Target-Date Funds - Target-date funds are designed to automatically adjust the asset allocation as the target date approaches, making them appealing for retirement savers [1] - They offer a diversified investment approach, which can help mitigate risks associated with individual stock picking [1] Group 2: Volatility Concerns - The volatility of target-date funds can be considerable, with some funds experiencing significant fluctuations in value [1] - Investors may face challenges during market downturns, as the funds may not perform as expected, leading to potential losses [1]

Self-directed retirement accounts typically offer a broader range of investment choices than regular 401(k) and IRA plans. https://t.co/du5Ttce2UP ...

Heard on the Street: Despite the opportunity in retirement accounts, fears of slow sales and tight pricing are weighing on private-equity stocks https://t.co/KFuZoUpzYc ...

Private asset managers have been tantalized for years about the $29 trillion in Americans’ retirement accounts. Donald Trump just made it easier for them to get a slice. (Photo: Getty Images)https://t.co/H9Ig2ncoXl https://t.co/e0M34Hw48t ...

Regulatory Change - US President Trump signs executive order allowing 401(k) retirement accounts to invest in bitcoin [1] Investment Implications - 401(k) retirement accounts are now permitted to invest in bitcoin [1]

Self-directed retirement accounts typically offer a broader range of investment choices than regular 401(k) and IRA plans. https://t.co/DwPx2SzYLh ...

Retirement Savings Landscape - Less than 3% of Americans have $1 million in retirement accounts [1] - The reality of retirement savings in America is lower than most people expect [1]

Within Donald Trump's big ugly bill is the creation of a new savings plan for children with the MAGA friendly name Trump Account. Yes, that name is baked into the law is what it is. Now, their overall idea isn't radically new.Similar ideas have been proposed by Democrats before, by Republicans before. And this new program functions functions essentially like individual retirement accounts with a few complicated rules. and they come with a $1,000 initial deposit from the federal government for children born ...