The US Department of Labor has proposed new rules for pension plans, allowing employees to save and invest part of their salaries for retirement with tax advantages. The plan would also permit the inclusion of alternative assets, including cryptocurrencies, in an effort to reduce regulatory uncertainty.

 

Under the proposal, investment managers will be judged on the quality of their asset evaluation rather than final returns. Fiduciaries will have greater freedom to choose investments, provided they carefully assess fees, liquidity, and risks. The guidance reverses restrictions introduced in 2022, when authorities warned against adding digital assets due to volatility.

 

Deputy Labor Secretary Keith Sonderling said the agency aims to remain neutral and not favor specific investment types. The proposal does not directly promote cryptocurrencies but introduces a “safe harbor” framework, allowing funds to include assets such as Bitcoin and real estate without fear of legal action.

 

Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer said broader diversification could drive innovation, adding that digital assets may help hedge inflation and boost long-term returns, especially for younger investors.