Are Alternative Investments Worth the Hype?

Barron's Retirement

Read in browser Sponsored By: By Elizabeth O'Brien | Sunday, April 5 Have you ever wished for alternative assets in your 401(k)? Me neither. And yet, they are on their way, thanks to a proposed rule released this past week by the Trump administration. The rule would allow alternative assets like private equity, private credit, bitcoin, and real estate into workplace retirement accounts. (They weren't banned before, but this new rule would give plan sponsors new legal cover if they decide to include.) For years, alternative asset managers have wanted to get a piece of the $14 trillion 401(k) market. But I haven't heard much about retirement savers clamoring for their products. It's a supply-driven scenario, and the industry cheered the release of the proposed rule this past week. That alone should give savers pause. Proponents say that alternative assets can add diversification and boost returns. That would be a good outcome, but it's hardly guaranteed. What is pretty much guaranteed is that you'll pay more for a fund that includes alternatives. The question is whether it will be worth it. **** Join us this Thursday for an informative Barron's Roundtable: Securing the Financial Future You Want, April 9, 2026, 12:00 PM ET No matter how much and how well we save, invest, and prepare, we're often thrown off course when the rules of the game abruptly change. Join us for conversations with experts about how to anticipate and cope with market gyrations and the evolving Social Security landscape—two essential aspects of financial and retirement planning. Register here CONTENT FROM: GL HOMES The Ultimate 55+ Lifestyle at Valencia from the $340s VALENCIA communities are designed to make the most of Florida's 55+ lifestyle where residents can relax poolside, stay active, and connect with friends at the resort-style clubhouses. Discover fitness programs, clubs, events, and endless social opportunities. Experience the Valencia lifestyle firsthand with our Stay & Play program and spend 3 days/2 nights in a furnished home for just $99! Learn More BARRON'S LATEST Alternative Assets Are Coming to Your 401(k). Are They Worth It? Fees and high cash allocations could act as a drag on returns. Americans' 'Magic Number' for Retirement Just Jumped to $1.5 Million The estimate is up $200,000 from a year ago, a survey finds. Money Is a Huge Strain for the Sandwich Generation Start the conversation early with aging parents. Meet the Next Generation of Dividend Aristocrats Going forward, expect more tech names in this elite group. Who Needs Las Vegas When You Have a Casino in Your Pocket? Inside Sin City's efforts to reinvent itself. WHAT WE'RE READING Beware Using Your Smartwatch to Track Business Mileage Taxpayers who use fitness apps to track business miles might not be aware of the in-app limitations. RESOURCES Social Security Medicare Required Minimum Distribution calculator Getting Ready to Retire? Here's a Planning Guide for the 5 Years Before Your Last Day. Finra's Guide to Social Isolation and the Risk of Investment Fraud The SEC's Guide to Identity Theft, Data Breaches, and Your Investment Accounts Sign up for more newsletters You are currently subscribed as aymentanaze.news@blogger.com Contact us   |   Privacy Notice   |   Cookie Notice Not a subscriber? Subscribe to Barron's now Forward 4300 Route 1 North, South Brunswick, NJ 08852 ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Unsubscribe