Public's $65 Million CryptoIRA Initiative Reflects Surging Interest in Tax-Beneficial Crypto Retirement Options

Public Purchases Alto's CryptoIRA Division to Broaden Crypto Retirement Trading

NEW YORK, Nov. 13, 2025 – Public, a platform dedicated to long-term investment strategies,

from Alto, a provider of self-directed IRAs, through a $65 million cash and stock agreement. Announced on Nov. 13, this deal will see Public incorporate Alto’s technology into its own platform by early 2026, giving users the ability to trade cryptocurrencies within their IRAs. Until the integration is complete, current Alto CryptoIRA users will via Alto’s system.

This acquisition highlights the increasing interest among retail investors in crypto retirement products, driven by institutional backing and shifting regulations. Public has recently broadened its crypto services, adding more digital currencies and introducing API trading. Bringing CryptoIRAs into the fold is a strategic move to attract investors looking for tax-efficient ways to invest in digital assets.

Alto’s collaboration with Public is its first under a new Custodial Infrastructure as a Service (CaaS) approach, shifting its focus to acting as a custodian rather than a direct crypto IRA provider. Although Alto will exit the crypto IRA provider space, it will , including private equity, real estate, and venture capital.

Leif Abraham, Public’s co-CEO and co-founder, highlighted the platform’s distinct advantage in offering crypto IRA services. “Public is now among the few platforms where clients can trade crypto within their IRAs,” he stated. This move fits with Public’s broader expansion into crypto, aiming at more affluent investors whose median age is 38—six years older than the typical Robinhood user

.

Eric Satz, Alto’s CEO, described Public as the “ideal partner” for distributing its CryptoIRA solution, noting Public’s insight into the needs of sophisticated investors. Alto will remain the custodian for these accounts, maintaining security and regulatory standards while Public manages the trading features

.

The regulatory environment for crypto retirement accounts is still evolving. While President Donald Trump’s executive order seeks to broaden 401(k) investment choices, clear guidelines for IRAs are still pending. Public’s move into this sector shows optimism for future regulatory clarity, giving investors the chance to grow their crypto portfolios with tax advantages

.

Existing Alto clients can expect a smooth transition. Once the integration is finalized, they’ll be able to access their crypto IRAs through Public, alongside other investment options on the platform. Alto’s $2 billion in assets under management and more than 30,000 IRA investors

.

This acquisition reflects a larger trend of consolidation within the crypto fintech industry. As companies strive to offer more comprehensive retirement solutions, collaborations like this aim to connect traditional investment methods with the growing world of digital assets.