Survey Reveals 77% of Americans Consider Crypto in Retirement Plans Risky

A new survey conducted by the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) reveals that a significant majority of Americans are skeptical about incorporating cryptocurrency into their retirement plans. Released on August 26, the survey indicates that 77% of respondents consider crypto a risky investment for workplace retirement plans, with 46% labeling it as 'very risky.'

Moreover, 53% of those surveyed oppose their employers offering cryptocurrency as an investment option. This sentiment comes amid growing concerns about retirement security, with 80% of Americans believing the country is facing a retirement crisis, a notable increase from 67% in 2020. Additionally, 61% expressed worries about their own financial security in retirement.

The survey, which involved 1,203 U.S. adults, highlights the anxiety surrounding retirement savings, with 73% of participants citing inflation as a concern and 62% troubled by market fluctuations. Furthermore, 76% fear potential cuts to Social Security if legislative action is not taken.

In response to these concerns, the Trump administration issued an executive order in August 2025, directing the Department of Labor to revisit guidelines regarding alternative investments, including digital assets, for retirement plans governed by ERISA. This order effectively reversed previous guidance that advised caution in adding crypto to retirement plans.

Despite regulatory changes allowing the inclusion of crypto in retirement plans, the current adoption rates remain low, with only 4% of 401(k) plans offering alternative investment options and a mere 0.1% of total assets allocated to these alternatives. The survey results suggest that asset managers, such as Fidelity, which has begun offering Bitcoin exposure in some 401(k) plans, may need to focus on educating the public about the risks and benefits of crypto investments before attitudes begin to shift.