By Samuel Oladiipo Olabanji, Tunbosun Oyewale Oladoyinbo, Christopher Uzoma Asonze, Chinasa Adigwe, Olalekan J Okunleye & Oluwaseun Oladeji Olaniyi

The integration of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, into retirement savings plans has recently garnered significant attention. This interest has been amplified by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s approval of Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in January 2024 and Fidelity Investments’ decision to include Bitcoin in their 401(k) plans. These landmark developments represent a paradigm shift in retirement investment strategies, merging traditional financial planning with the dynamic and volatile world of cryptocurrencies. The entry of Bitcoin introduces novel challenges, including increased volatility and regulatory uncertainty, necessitating a comprehensive examination of its impacts on retirement savings. The study sought to explore the role of Financial Technology (FinTech) in managing these risks and assess the adequacy of current regulatory frameworks. Employing a quantitative research approach, the study collected data from 386 participants, including FinTech practitioners and investment portfolio managers through a survey that combining closed-ended and open-ended questions. Multiple regression was used to analyze the relationships between variables such as FinTech integration, regulatory compliance, and the risk associated with cryptocurrency-inclusive retirement portfolios. The study revealed that the inclusion of Bitcoin significantly increases portfolio volatility. It also found that advanced FinTech data management techniques significantly enhance risk mitigation, while current regulatory frameworks are inadequate for governing the inclusion of cryptocurrencies in retirement plans. A comprehensive framework combining FinTech and regulatory compliance was shown to effectively reduce investment risks. The study recommends cautious consideration of cryptocurrencies in retirement portfolios, with an emphasis on assessing the risk appetite of participants. It advocates for dynamic regulatory frameworks and enhanced use of FinTech for real-time risk management. The study suggests that retirement plan providers should adopt an integrated approach, combining technological innovations with regulatory oversight, to navigate the complexities of cryptocurrency investments effectively.

Source SSRN