A recent survey by Charles Schwab indicates that 45% of American investors are increasingly interested in alternative assets like cryptocurrency, gold, and oil. The survey highlights a growing sentiment that traditional stocks and bonds are insufficient for a robust investment portfolio, with two-thirds of respondents expressing this view. The popularity of alternative ETFs has surged, simplifying access to these assets, with over $1,000 billion invested in the US in 2025. Additionally, recent regulatory changes have made it easier to include alternative assets in savings and retirement plans, reflecting a shift in investment strategies among US investors.