U.S. SEC Chairman Paul Atkins: Now is the right time to open the 401(k) retirement market to cryptocurrencies Atkins pointed out that many people have already indirectly accessed cryptocurrencies or similar assets through pension funds. The current focus is on private securities and private equity funds, which many people are already familiar with. He stated that through 401(k) plans, people will be able to invest in these assets under professional management, with fund trustees responsible for oversight and management.