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Trump Eyes 401(k) Overhaul to Include Private Market Investments

President Donald Trump is reportedly preparing to sign an executive order that would expand access to private-market investments—such as private equity, venture capital, hedge funds, and real estate—within 401(k) retirement plans. The order would direct the Labor Department and SEC to issue new regulatory guidance for employers and plan administrators.

These private assets, which are not traded on public markets, carry higher risks but also potentially higher returns. Financial firms like Apollo Global Management, State Street, and Blue Owl Capital are already developing retirement products that incorporate private-market exposure in anticipation of the change.

Supporters argue this would give Americans more options to diversify and grow retirement wealth. A similar move during Trump’s first term was reversed by the Biden administration, which discouraged private equity in retirement plans due to concerns over risk and fees. The new order would likely reinstate and expand that access. Read More. 

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Furious Over Dedollarization, Trump Threatens Brazil and BRICS With Tariffs

The U.S. government, particularly under Trump, is reportedly alarmed by BRICS' growing influence and its push for dedollarization—the effort to reduce global reliance on the U.S. dollar. Trump insiders, including Steve Bannon, say the former president is furious over the group's moves to establish a new global reserve currency and sees BRICS as an economic threat.

Brazil, under President Lula da Silva, has become a central figure in this movement, advocating for a multipolar world and promoting trade in local currencies. In response, Trump has threatened steep tariffs on Brazil—up to 50%—and plans to penalize all BRICS countries with a 10% tariff, aiming to deter participation in the group.

These tariff threats are also seen as an attempt to weaken Brazil’s economy and support Trump ally Jair Bolsonaro ahead of the 2026 Brazilian election. Lula has responded by asserting Brazil’s sovereignty, pledging retaliatory tariffs, and doubling down on dedollarization efforts.

The broader context includes a long history of U.S. interference in Latin America, particularly against leftist governments. Lula and other Global South leaders view BRICS as a way to resist this influence and assert independence in global trade and finance. Read More.