Bitwise challenges resistance to Bitcoin in US 401K plans

Bitwise chief investment officer Matt Hougan criticised opposition to Bitcoin in retirement plans as unjustified.

Hougan said concerns about Bitcoin’s volatility ignore similar or greater swings in major US stocks.

He made the remarks as Senator Elizabeth Warren pressed regulators over crypto risks in retirement funds.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order last year directing a review of restrictions on alternative assets in 401(k) plans.

Hougan said blocking Bitcoin from 401(k)s while allowing volatile equities made little sense.

This is just another asset. Does it go up and down? Absolutely.

Matt Hougan said.

He argued Bitcoin has been less volatile than some major technology stocks over the past year.

Hougan cited Nvidia’s sharp price movements as an example of volatility accepted in retirement portfolios.

Bitcoin’s price swings, he said, have been comparatively smaller over the same period.

Crypto firms have long viewed access to 401(k) plans as a major step towards mainstream adoption.

Senator Elizabeth Warren raised concerns about higher fees and risks tied to crypto investments.

For most Americans, their 401(k) represents a lifeline to retirement security rather than a playground for financial risk.

Elizabeth Warren said.

Warren asked the SEC how it plans to account for volatility and potential market manipulation.

She also called for more investor education around crypto-related risks.

The Department of Labor earlier adopted a neutral stance on crypto in 401(k) plans.

Hougan said adoption may be slow but expects crypto to become normalised in retirement accounts.

These are very slow-moving institutions, but we're moving in that direction.

Matt Hougan said.

At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $91,841.54.