According to ChainCatcher, the U.S. Department of Labor submitted proposed rules allowing alternative assets, including cryptocurrency, in 401(k) retirement plans to the White House on November 5 for final review. The proposal does not restrict which cryptocurrencies may be included nor impose a minimum market cap threshold, potentially opening the door for altcoins and mid-cap tokens to enter U.S. retirement investment plans.
However, asset managers will still need to evaluate potential investments based on performance history, fees, liquidity, valuation, and benchmark availability. Bitcoin and Ethereum, given their mature markets and established investment products, are expected to gain access first, while smaller tokens may face higher barriers due to limited historical data, restricted liquidity, and lack of reliable valuation benchmarks. Crypto ETFs and managed funds are anticipated to enter 401(k) plans before direct crypto holdings, as they more easily integrate with existing custody and account management systems.