Should alternative assets be in your 401(k)? What does Americans really savvy Americans think

We asked over 1,000 Boldin subscribers about their ideas on the federal proposal to expand 401(k) investment options to include alternative assets such as cryptocurrencies, private equity and real estate.

The results reveal a thoughtful combination of curiosity and caution. While many like to have more options, most people are still skeptical about whether these new options really benefit from retired savers.

Who answered our survey? Smart retirement-age investors

At Boldin, we know our users are curious, informed, and are always looking for ways to make smarter choices with money and time. They are not passive savers – they are active planners, and they want to understand the trade-offs in every decision.

Most respondents are close to or have retired – 63% are between 56 and 65 years old, while 22% are between 45 and 55 years old. Only 2% of people are younger than 44 years old. The characteristics of this age are important: These are people with direct experience managing retirement accounts, weighing risks and making impacts on their financial independence.

Geographically, the survey reflects a wide range of cross-sections in the United States, from the South (27%), the West (27%), the Midwest (26%) and the Northeast (20%). This balance ensures that the discovery does not tilt towards an economic or cultural perspective of a region.

These results come from the “skin in the game” people – retired investors actively manage their financial future.

People are skeptical about alternative assets in 401(k) accounts

When asked about federal proposals to allow alternative assets within 401(k)s, the response was mixed, but skeptical. Nearly half (48%) opposed the idea, while only 34% supported it. Another 18% say they are neutral.

The department highlights an important fact: While some welcome new investment opportunities, many people are concerned that adding speculative options in retirement accounts may do more harm than good. For financially versatile Americans, stability and long-term security often outweigh the potential for high returns.

What is your overall opinion on Trump’s proposal to include alternative investments in his 401k account?

• 24.36% objected
• 24.07% strongly objected
• 20.74% support
• 17.61% are neutral or have no comments
• 13.21% support

Limited interest in alternative investments of 401(k)s

The findings make clear: Financially savvy Americans have little interest in allocating retirement savings to alternative assets such as cryptocurrencies or real estate. When asked directly about the possibility of their doing so, 80% say they are “unlikely” Put any part of its 401(k) in an alternative, only 9.5% of the reports said they were “very likely”.

Even in a hypothetical case where alternative investments are available throughout the work period, most people still express caution. More than three-quarters of respondents (78%) said they either would not invest in alternatives at all (35.4%) or would not have exposure to more than 5% of their portfolio (42.6%). only 2% said they would invest as much as possible.

Together, these findings raise a strong consensus: While alternatives may have a small number of mature investors, they are Not considered a recommendation or mainstream strategy for retirement savings. And, while some people would be more willing to invest a small portion of their early stages, when they have more time to make up for any losses, savvy people recognize the risks and would rather keep speculative assets on the edge of their long-term plans.

It is possible that you will allocate a portion of your 401(k) to alternative assets such as cryptocurrency or real estate?

• 80.37% of the response is unlikely
• 10.01% is impossible and very likely to be somehow
• 9.62% of the possible

If the proposal becomes law (or is available during your working year), then the possibility of you assigning a portion of your 401(k) to alternative assets such as cryptocurrency or real estate?

• 42.6% may invest in a small amount, but no more than 5%
• 35.4% won't invest in alternatives
• 20% Would definitely invest 5% of my portfolio
• 2% will do my best to invest in alternatives

Survey respondents are familiar with alternatives, but do not believe that the average 401K holders are aware of the risks

For Boldin users, alternative investment is not a new concept. More than 80% of respondents said they were at least somewhat familiar with cryptocurrencies, private equity and real estate. Only 2% admit that they are “not familiar at all”.

However, all 85% of respondents said that most retired savers do not understand the risk and reward trade-offs of alternative assets. And, this is true. Alternatives can be considered speculation rather than investment.

Do you think most retired savers understand the risks and reward tradeoffs of investing in alternative assets?

• 85.48% say no, most don't
• 9.14% Uncertain
• 5.4% say yes, most people do

How many should 401(k) replace?

Even among those who are open to this idea, most agree that the distribution should be moderate. 21% say alternatives shouldn't be a strategy at all. Another 18% suggest less than 5% of 401(k). Nearly a quarter (24%) said the appropriate range was 6-10%.

These findings reinforce economically savvy Americans don’t object to innovation but want boundaries. Small allocations can provide diversity without damaging core retirement savings, which reflects the balanced, planner mindset.

Not savers benefit the most

A clear majority (67%) said private equity and crypto companies would benefit the most from the expansion. Only 17% believe retired savers will lead, and the rest will either separate gains or be uncertain.

This reflects many people’s distrust of financial institutions and new asset providers. It is recognized that opening up 401(k) to alternative assets may incur more expenses and profits for the company than providing security for savers. From Boldin's perspective, this emphasizes the need for transparency and education – helping individuals evaluate who truly benefit from such policy changes.

Boldin's opinion

The survey reveals a consistent theme: people want choices, but they prioritize making informed, wise decisions. Boldin users see the difference between investment and speculation. They know that while alternatives can play a role in the portfolio, they should be handled with caution and supported by knowledge.

That's the essence of Boldin: providing everyone with the tools, education and confidence to control their financial future. Whether weighing the pros and cons of cryptocurrencies or just making sure your retirement income will last, Boldin can plan with his eyes wide open.

About Boldin Retirement Planners

Boldin is democratizing to get high-quality financial plans. Boldin retirement planners can help real people build plans they understand and trust. The software gives you control over your future while our coaches, courses, and CFP® professionals at Boldin Advisors get expert advice, make sure you don't have to do it alone. Whether you are planning to retire, navigate life transitions, or just trying to make smarter financial decisions, Boldin combines clarity, confidence, and affordability to help you move forward.