Private equity could transform your retirement, Wharton alternative investment experts say, but only if it adapts to protect savers

With President Trump’s new executive order encouraging private market investments in defined contribution plans like 401(k)s, private equity stands at a pivotal moment. This shift could reshape how millions of Americans save for retirement.

Private equity may offer higher returns and diversification, but bringing it into retirement plans requires new rules and safeguards to protect savers.

Private equity has a compelling case for inclusion — but one that demands caution. Traditional retirement accounts still focus on public stocks and bonds, even as public markets represent a shrinking share of today’s economy. The number of publicly traded U.S. companies has nearly halved since the mid-1990s. Meanwhile, companies are staying private longer. As a result, retail investors are missing out