The U.S. Department of Labor has proposed new rules for 401(k) plans, aiming to clarify how fiduciaries should evaluate alternative assets, including private equity, private credit, and digital assets. This proposal follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in August 2025, which directed the expansion of retirement plan access to alternative investments. The proposed rule provides a compliance framework and a "safe harbor" for employers, offering legal protection if investment decisions are later challenged. While the proposal does not mandate the inclusion of new investments or endorse specific asset classes, it sets the groundwork for potential future inclusion of alternatives like Bitcoin. The rule is seen as a significant step towards expanding the alternative investment market, which could impact the $10.1 trillion held in 401(k) plans as of 2025. A 60-day public comment period is now open, with the final rule subject to adjustments and legal scrutiny before implementation.