Public, the long-term investing platform known for its accessible approach to stocks and ETFs, announced it has acquired Alto’s CryptoIRA business. The move positions Public to offer cryptocurrency trading within individual retirement accounts (IRAs) by early 2026, expanding its suite of sophisticated investment products.

Bringing crypto to retirement accounts
The integration will allow Public members to trade cryptocurrencies in tax-advantaged accounts, a feature increasingly sought after by retail investors as crypto adoption grows. Until the platform transition is complete, existing Alto CryptoIRA customers can continue trading via the Alto platform. Once integrated, Public will provide a seamless experience across both traditional and crypto assets.

Why it matters
IRAs have historically been limited to stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Adding crypto trading without triggering taxable events is a significant step for mainstream adoption, especially as regulatory clarity and institutional support for digital assets increase. This move positions Public as one of the few platforms where customers can trade crypto in their retirement accounts—a compelling differentiator in a crowded retail brokerage market.

“Public is now one of the only platforms where customers can trade crypto in their IRAs,” said Leif Abraham, co-CEO and co-founder of Public. “Alto’s CryptoIRA product is another way we’re offering our investors sophisticated products to build long-term wealth.”

A strategic partnership for scale
Alto’s decision to partner with Public also marks its first enterprise client under its new Custodial Infrastructure as a Service (CaaS) model. While Alto will exit direct crypto offerings, it will continue providing access to private markets like private equity, real estate, and infrastructure IRAs. Eric Satz, CEO and Founder of Alto, noted that the collaboration ensures “a best-in-class trading experience” while leveraging Alto’s secure, scalable infrastructure.

Implications for investors
The acquisition reflects a broader trend: retail platforms are increasingly adding alternative assets to meet investor demand for diversified portfolios, especially in retirement accounts. For Public members, it means one-stop access to both traditional and crypto assets in a tax-advantaged account, simplifying portfolio management and long-term wealth building.

For existing Alto CryptoIRA users, nothing changes immediately. They will continue to manage accounts on Alto until the integration is finalized, at which point they will access crypto IRAs through Public alongside other investment options.