Fidelity Launches Crypto Retirement Accounts for U.S. Investors

Fidelity is making a bold move into the crypto space by offering new retirement accounts that let Americans invest in digital assets with minimal fees.

The financial giant, managing around $5.9 trillion, has introduced three types of IRAs: a traditional tax-deferred account and two Roth IRAs, one of which is a rollover. These accounts will support buying and selling Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin. While opening and maintaining the accounts is free, Fidelity charges a 1% spread on crypto transactions.

This initiative is managed by Fidelity Digital Assets, a subsidiary that typically caters to institutional investors. By expanding to retail clients, Fidelity signals a shift in how mainstream financial institutions view crypto as part of retirement planning. The move also reflects the growing acceptance of digital assets in the U.S., where companies like Circle are pursuing public listings and Bitcoin reserves are becoming a strategic choice.

To ensure security, most of the crypto held within these accounts is stored offline in cold wallets, minimizing hacking risks. This cautious approach highlights Fidelity’s commitment to safeguarding client assets.

READ MORE:

PayPal Expands Crypto Offering with Solana and Chainlink Integration

In the past, accessing crypto through retirement accounts was challenging since few IRA providers allowed direct purchases. Although Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs have offered some exposure since 2024, direct investment options remained limited. Recently, some companies like BitIRA began offering crypto-specific IRAs, including altcoins like Litecoin, to meet growing demand.

Efforts to integrate crypto into retirement savings are gaining traction. Senator Tommy Tuberville recently proposed a bill to make it easier for Americans to include cryptocurrencies in their 401(k) plans, aiming to reduce current regulatory restrictions. As traditional finance increasingly intersects with the crypto world, Fidelity’s move marks another step toward broader adoption.

Alexander Stefanov