US President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order on Thursday aimed at expanding the scope of investments allowed in 401(k) retirement accounts, a White House official confirmed. The order would pave the way for the inclusion of private equity, real estate, cryptocurrencies, and other alternative assets options traditionally off-limits in such plans. “The order directs the Securities and Exchange Commission to facilitate access to alternative assets for participant-directed defined-contribution retirement savings plans by revising applicable regulations and guidance,” the official said. It also instructs the labour secretary to consult with Treasury, the SEC, and other federal regulators to explore aligned policy changes. Trump is scheduled to sign the order at 12:00 PM ET, according to the official White House agenda.