Digital Assets Risk Disclosures
Digital Assets Risk Disclosures
Digital Assets Risk Disclosures
Last Updated: July 24, 2026
Last Updated: July 24, 2026
The information provided by Retired.com should not be interpreted or construed as investment, tax, or legal advice. It also does not constitute a recommendation, an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy any interest in Digital Assets.
All customer accounts are self-directed. Accordingly, unless Retired.com clearly identifies a communication as an individualized recommendation, customers are solely responsible for any and all orders placed in their accounts and understand that all orders entered by them are based on their own investment decisions or the investment decisions of their duly authorized representative or agent. Consequently, any customer of Retired.com agrees that, unless otherwise agreed to in writing, neither Retired.com nor any of its employees, agents, principals or representatives (i) provide investment advice in connection with a customer account; (ii) recommend any digital asset, transaction or order; (iii) solicit orders; (iv) act as a market maker; (v) make discretionary trades; or (vi) produce or provide research. To the extent research materials or similar information is available through Retired.com, these materials are intended for informational and educational purposes only and they do not constitute a recommendation to enter into any digital asset transactions or to engage in any particular investment strategies.
Digital Trust, LLC, acts as a directed custodian for self-directed retirement accounts that hold digital assets. This means Digital Trust processes transactions only as instructed by the account holder and performs administrative, custody, and reporting functions required under federal law.
The information provided by Retired.com should not be interpreted or construed as investment, tax, or legal advice. It also does not constitute a recommendation, an offer to sell, or a solicitation to buy any interest in Digital Assets.
All customer accounts are self-directed. Accordingly, unless Retired.com clearly identifies a communication as an individualized recommendation, customers are solely responsible for any and all orders placed in their accounts and understand that all orders entered by them are based on their own investment decisions or the investment decisions of their duly authorized representative or agent. Consequently, any customer of Retired.com agrees that, unless otherwise agreed to in writing, neither Retired.com nor any of its employees, agents, principals or representatives (i) provide investment advice in connection with a customer account; (ii) recommend any digital asset, transaction or order; (iii) solicit orders; (iv) act as a market maker; (v) make discretionary trades; or (vi) produce or provide research. To the extent research materials or similar information is available through Retired.com, these materials are intended for informational and educational purposes only and they do not constitute a recommendation to enter into any digital asset transactions or to engage in any particular investment strategies.
Digital Trust, LLC, acts as a directed custodian for self-directed retirement accounts that hold digital assets. This means Digital Trust processes transactions only as instructed by the account holder and performs administrative, custody, and reporting functions required under federal law.
1. GENERAL
1. GENERAL
Investing in cryptocurrencies and other digital assets (collectively referred to as “Digital Assets”) is highly speculative, involving substantial risks that may not be suitable for all investors. Individuals must possess the financial capacity, sophistication, substantial experience, and willingness to bear the inherent risks of such investments, which include the possibility of losing their entire investment. Capital allocated to Digital Assets investments should be discretionary and reserved solely for speculative purposes, with an understanding that past performance is not indicative of future results.
Investments in Digital Assets are complex and carry unique risks, making them unsuitable for many investors. Before engaging in any transactions, it is imperative to consult with financial, tax, or legal professionals to evaluate the appropriateness of Digital Assets investments within your portfolio.
You acknowledge that you have completed your own due diligence and understand the risks associated with trading in and/or lending and that you accept those risks. While the following is a listing of some of those risks, it is not presented as, nor should it be construed as a complete listing of potential risks.
Investing in cryptocurrencies and other digital assets (collectively referred to as “Digital Assets”) is highly speculative, involving substantial risks that may not be suitable for all investors. Individuals must possess the financial capacity, sophistication, substantial experience, and willingness to bear the inherent risks of such investments, which include the possibility of losing their entire investment. Capital allocated to Digital Assets investments should be discretionary and reserved solely for speculative purposes, with an understanding that past performance is not indicative of future results.
Investments in Digital Assets are complex and carry unique risks, making them unsuitable for many investors. Before engaging in any transactions, it is imperative to consult with financial, tax, or legal professionals to evaluate the appropriateness of Digital Assets investments within your portfolio.
You acknowledge that you have completed your own due diligence and understand the risks associated with trading in and/or lending and that you accept those risks. While the following is a listing of some of those risks, it is not presented as, nor should it be construed as a complete listing of potential risks.
2. RISK OF DIGITAL ASSETS INVESTMENTS
2. RISK OF DIGITAL ASSETS INVESTMENTS
Many Digital Assets have a relatively short performance history, resulting in heightened uncertainty about their long-term viability and investment performance. Lack of historical data complicates the evaluation of risks and potential returns.
Digital Assets investments can incur significant costs, which may reduce overall returns. These include Custodial Fees, Liquidity Provider Fees, and Platform Fees, as described in the Digital Asset Fee Schedule available on our website. Transaction fees may fluctuate due to factors such as market volatility, blockchain congestion, and exchange rates.
The value of Digital Assets is highly volatile and can quickly devalue to complete loss. Legislative or regulatory actions, market shifts, or technological failures could lead to a total loss of investment capital.
Digital Assets investments are subject to evolving laws and regulations, which can impact their legality and value. Changes at the state, federal, or international level related to commodities and securities regulation, money transmission licensing, and custodial requirements may impose significant restrictions or obligations, negatively affecting the transfer, use, or exchange of cryptocurrencies. Compliance and licensing costs may also increase as regulations become more stringent.
Depending on jurisdiction, Digital Assets are classified as different asset classes. In many cases, cryptocurrency is not considered legal tender and is without insurance or backing by government. Common protections by such financial regulatory institutions such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) may not apply. This exposes investors to higher risk in case of financial loss.
Digital Assets transactions are generally irreversible, which means losses resulting from errors, fraud, or accidental transfers may be permanent. As such, recovery mechanisms are also generally unavailable.
The completion of Digital Assets transactions depends on when they are recorded on the blockchain ledger, which may differ from the time the transaction is initiated. This delay can affect the value of the transaction.
The valuation of Digital Assets depends largely on the willingness of market participants to exchange fiat currency for digital assets. If market sentiment deteriorates, there is a real risk of complete and permanent devaluation. Additionally, market acceptance can be inconsistent; there is no assurance that vendors or service providers will continue to accept cryptocurrencies.
The market for Digital Assets is extremely volatile. Prices may fluctuate dramatically in response to events such as government regulation, security breaches, or changes in market sentiment. Such volatility can lead to significant or total loss of investment within a short timeframe.
The digital nature of these assets makes them vulnerable to hacking, fraud, and cyber-attacks. Security breaches can result in a complete loss of assets or personal data. Investors must adopt strong security practices, such as using multi-factor authentication and secure wallets.
The infrastructure supporting Digital Assets investments, including exchanges, wallets, and blockchain networks, is subject to technological risks. Failures, downtime, or breaches of these services may limit access to your holdings or render your assets inaccessible.
Blockchain technology itself may encounter unforeseen challenges, including software bugs, consensus failures, or network attacks. These technological issues could jeopardize the security and operability of Digital Assets, impacting your ability to trade or transfer assets.
Digital Assets may undergo “hard forks”—a significant change in a blockchain’s protocol that results in the splitting of the original blockchain into two separate networks. These events may cause significant volatility and uncertainty in the value and functionality of the affected Digital Assets. Additionally, Retired.com or any affiliated service providers may choose not to support the new or derivative assets resulting from a hard fork. If a hard fork occurs, there is no guarantee that you will receive any resulting new digital assets.
Changes to the underlying technology or protocol of a blockchain network may disrupt the value or usability of Digital Assets. These changes can include software updates, consensus algorithm adjustments, or other technological shifts that impact transaction processing and security.
Digital Assets transactions may have tax implications that require accurate reporting to tax authorities. Laws regarding taxation are complex and vary by jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for understanding and fulfilling their tax obligations.
Digital Assets operate on a global scale, and international regulations may vary. Cross-border restrictions, bans, or jurisdictional legal conflicts could disrupt your ability to trade or access your digital assets.
Our platform utilizes advanced security measures, including encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular cybersecurity audits. However, even robust security measures cannot completely eliminate the risks associated with digital assets.
Many Digital Assets have a relatively short performance history, resulting in heightened uncertainty about their long-term viability and investment performance. Lack of historical data complicates the evaluation of risks and potential returns.
Digital Assets investments can incur significant costs, which may reduce overall returns. These include Custodial Fees, Liquidity Provider Fees, and Platform Fees, as described in the Digital Asset Fee Schedule available on our website. Transaction fees may fluctuate due to factors such as market volatility, blockchain congestion, and exchange rates.
The value of Digital Assets is highly volatile and can quickly devalue to complete loss. Legislative or regulatory actions, market shifts, or technological failures could lead to a total loss of investment capital.
Digital Assets investments are subject to evolving laws and regulations, which can impact their legality and value. Changes at the state, federal, or international level related to commodities and securities regulation, money transmission licensing, and custodial requirements may impose significant restrictions or obligations, negatively affecting the transfer, use, or exchange of cryptocurrencies. Compliance and licensing costs may also increase as regulations become more stringent.
Depending on jurisdiction, Digital Assets are classified as different asset classes. In many cases, cryptocurrency is not considered legal tender and is without insurance or backing by government. Common protections by such financial regulatory institutions such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC) may not apply. This exposes investors to higher risk in case of financial loss.
Digital Assets transactions are generally irreversible, which means losses resulting from errors, fraud, or accidental transfers may be permanent. As such, recovery mechanisms are also generally unavailable.
The completion of Digital Assets transactions depends on when they are recorded on the blockchain ledger, which may differ from the time the transaction is initiated. This delay can affect the value of the transaction.
The valuation of Digital Assets depends largely on the willingness of market participants to exchange fiat currency for digital assets. If market sentiment deteriorates, there is a real risk of complete and permanent devaluation. Additionally, market acceptance can be inconsistent; there is no assurance that vendors or service providers will continue to accept cryptocurrencies.
The market for Digital Assets is extremely volatile. Prices may fluctuate dramatically in response to events such as government regulation, security breaches, or changes in market sentiment. Such volatility can lead to significant or total loss of investment within a short timeframe.
The digital nature of these assets makes them vulnerable to hacking, fraud, and cyber-attacks. Security breaches can result in a complete loss of assets or personal data. Investors must adopt strong security practices, such as using multi-factor authentication and secure wallets.
The infrastructure supporting Digital Assets investments, including exchanges, wallets, and blockchain networks, is subject to technological risks. Failures, downtime, or breaches of these services may limit access to your holdings or render your assets inaccessible.
Blockchain technology itself may encounter unforeseen challenges, including software bugs, consensus failures, or network attacks. These technological issues could jeopardize the security and operability of Digital Assets, impacting your ability to trade or transfer assets.
Digital Assets may undergo “hard forks”—a significant change in a blockchain’s protocol that results in the splitting of the original blockchain into two separate networks. These events may cause significant volatility and uncertainty in the value and functionality of the affected Digital Assets. Additionally, Retired.com or any affiliated service providers may choose not to support the new or derivative assets resulting from a hard fork. If a hard fork occurs, there is no guarantee that you will receive any resulting new digital assets.
Changes to the underlying technology or protocol of a blockchain network may disrupt the value or usability of Digital Assets. These changes can include software updates, consensus algorithm adjustments, or other technological shifts that impact transaction processing and security.
Digital Assets transactions may have tax implications that require accurate reporting to tax authorities. Laws regarding taxation are complex and vary by jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for understanding and fulfilling their tax obligations.
Digital Assets operate on a global scale, and international regulations may vary. Cross-border restrictions, bans, or jurisdictional legal conflicts could disrupt your ability to trade or access your digital assets.
Our platform utilizes advanced security measures, including encryption, two-factor authentication, and regular cybersecurity audits. However, even robust security measures cannot completely eliminate the risks associated with digital assets.
3. RISKS SPECIFIC TO DIGITAL ASSETS INVESTMENTS IN AN IRA OR RETIREMENT ACCOUNT
3. RISKS SPECIFIC TO DIGITAL ASSETS INVESTMENTS IN AN IRA OR RETIREMENT ACCOUNT
Digital Assets held within an IRA are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). This means that any losses incurred will not be recoverable through traditional governmental protection schemes.
Retirement accounts are subject to a different set of regulations compared to traditional securities accounts. Digital Assets investments in IRAs may lack certain regulatory safeguards that typically protect more conventional IRA investments, such as stocks or mutual funds.
Although gains or losses on Digital Assets investments are typically tax-advantaged, noncompliance with IRS regulations can have severe tax penalties.
The IRS imposes strict rules on what constitutes a prohibited transaction within an IRA. Using IRA-owned Digital Assets in a way that violates these rules, such as engaging in personal benefit transactions, could disqualify the IRA, resulting in significant tax liabilities and penalties.
For Traditional IRAs, the IRS requires account holders to start taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) starting at a certain age (73 as of 2024). This information is on occasion updated by the IRS and may be available through the IRS website. The client is responsible for understanding these requirements.
Digital Assets investments are typically more volatile and may not be easily liquidated to meet RMD obligations. A sudden drop in value or lack of market liquidity could make it difficult to fulfill these requirements without incurring substantial losses.
Digital Assets can be highly illiquid, especially during market downturns. If you need to convert digital assets to cash for distributions or other financial needs, you may face unfavorable pricing or delays.
The extreme price volatility of Digital Assets introduces significant risks to retirement planning. Since retirement accounts are generally intended for long-term growth and stability, the high degree of fluctuation in Digital Assets prices can pose a risk to achieving consistent, reliable returns.
Managing Digital Assets within an IRA may incur higher custodial, transaction, and account maintenance fees compared to traditional IRA investments like mutual funds or ETFs. These fees can erode the overall value of your retirement savings over time.
The regulatory landscape for Digital Assets is continuously evolving, and changes in laws or regulations may impact the legality or treatment of cryptocurrency IRAs. Investors must stay informed about new developments and how they may affect their retirement accounts.
Any changes in Digital Asset regulations could potentially affect the status of your IRA, including the classification and treatment of digital assets for tax purposes.
Given the complexities and risks involved, it is crucial to consult with financial or tax professionals who have experience with Digital Assets and retirement planning. This ensures compliance with IRS regulations and helps formulate an appropriate investment strategy.
Digital Assets held within an IRA are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). This means that any losses incurred will not be recoverable through traditional governmental protection schemes.
Retirement accounts are subject to a different set of regulations compared to traditional securities accounts. Digital Assets investments in IRAs may lack certain regulatory safeguards that typically protect more conventional IRA investments, such as stocks or mutual funds.
Although gains or losses on Digital Assets investments are typically tax-advantaged, noncompliance with IRS regulations can have severe tax penalties.
The IRS imposes strict rules on what constitutes a prohibited transaction within an IRA. Using IRA-owned Digital Assets in a way that violates these rules, such as engaging in personal benefit transactions, could disqualify the IRA, resulting in significant tax liabilities and penalties.
For Traditional IRAs, the IRS requires account holders to start taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) starting at a certain age (73 as of 2024). This information is on occasion updated by the IRS and may be available through the IRS website. The client is responsible for understanding these requirements.
Digital Assets investments are typically more volatile and may not be easily liquidated to meet RMD obligations. A sudden drop in value or lack of market liquidity could make it difficult to fulfill these requirements without incurring substantial losses.
Digital Assets can be highly illiquid, especially during market downturns. If you need to convert digital assets to cash for distributions or other financial needs, you may face unfavorable pricing or delays.
The extreme price volatility of Digital Assets introduces significant risks to retirement planning. Since retirement accounts are generally intended for long-term growth and stability, the high degree of fluctuation in Digital Assets prices can pose a risk to achieving consistent, reliable returns.
Managing Digital Assets within an IRA may incur higher custodial, transaction, and account maintenance fees compared to traditional IRA investments like mutual funds or ETFs. These fees can erode the overall value of your retirement savings over time.
The regulatory landscape for Digital Assets is continuously evolving, and changes in laws or regulations may impact the legality or treatment of cryptocurrency IRAs. Investors must stay informed about new developments and how they may affect their retirement accounts.
Any changes in Digital Asset regulations could potentially affect the status of your IRA, including the classification and treatment of digital assets for tax purposes.
Given the complexities and risks involved, it is crucial to consult with financial or tax professionals who have experience with Digital Assets and retirement planning. This ensures compliance with IRS regulations and helps formulate an appropriate investment strategy.
The above summary is not a complete list of the risks and other important disclosures involved in investing in digital assets. There may be additional risks that we have not foreseen or identified. For a more comprehensive understanding, review all governing documents, including our Terms of Service and Customer Transaction Disclosure, and stay informed about the latest terms and policies. Significant changes in our terms, fee structures, or regulations will be communicated through our official channels.
You should carefully assess whether your financial standing and tolerance for risk are suitable for buying or selling Digital Assets.
The above summary is not a complete list of the risks and other important disclosures involved in investing in digital assets. There may be additional risks that we have not foreseen or identified. For a more comprehensive understanding, review all governing documents, including our Terms of Service and Customer Transaction Disclosure, and stay informed about the latest terms and policies. Significant changes in our terms, fee structures, or regulations will be communicated through our official channels.
You should carefully assess whether your financial standing and tolerance for risk are suitable for buying or selling Digital Assets.
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Retired.com, LLC (“Retired.com”) is a technology platform that connects users with third-party custodians, digital wallet providers, cryptocurrency platforms, brokerage providers, and banking partners. Retired.com is not a bank, broker-dealer, exchange, custodian, or registered investment adviser, and does not provide investment, legal, or tax advice.
Investment advisory services offered through Retired Advisory, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser, pursuant to a written advisory agreement. Securities accounts are carried and cleared by Interactive Brokers LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Digital asset custody and related services are provided by Digital Trust, LLC. Banking services are provided by participating partner banks. Retired.com, LLC, Retired Advisory, LLC, Rocket Dollar Capital, LLC, and Digital Trust, LLC are wholly owned subsidiaries of WAO Fintech, LLC.
Neither the IRS nor any governmental or regulatory authority has approved or endorsed any investment or transaction available through the platform.
Investing in cryptocurrencies, digital assets, and securities involves substantial risks, including the possible loss of principal. Digital assets are highly speculative, volatile, and may become illiquid or lose value entirely. Investments are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed, and may lose value.
The information provided through the platform is general and educational in nature and should not be construed as legal, tax, investment, or other professional advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. While Retired.com believes the information presented is reliable, it does not guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Retired.com disclaims liability arising from reliance on such information. Users should consult their own legal, tax, and financial advisers regarding their specific circumstances.
© 2026 Retired.com. All rights reserved. Retired.com™ and the Retired.com Logo are trademarks of Retired.com, LLC. All other trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners.
Stocks
Precious Metals
Call us
Retired.com, LLC (“Retired.com”) is a technology platform that connects users with third-party custodians, digital wallet providers, cryptocurrency platforms, brokerage providers, and banking partners. Retired.com is not a bank, broker-dealer, exchange, custodian, or registered investment adviser, and does not provide investment, legal, or tax advice.
Investment advisory services offered through Retired Advisory, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser, pursuant to a written advisory agreement. Securities accounts are carried and cleared by Interactive Brokers LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Digital asset custody and related services are provided by Digital Trust, LLC. Banking services are provided by participating partner banks. Retired.com, LLC, Retired Advisory, LLC, Rocket Dollar Capital, LLC, and Digital Trust, LLC are wholly owned subsidiaries of WAO Fintech, LLC.
Neither the IRS nor any governmental or regulatory authority has approved or endorsed any investment or transaction available through the platform.
Investing in cryptocurrencies, digital assets, and securities involves substantial risks, including the possible loss of principal. Digital assets are highly speculative, volatile, and may become illiquid or lose value entirely. Investments are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed, and may lose value.
The information provided through the platform is general and educational in nature and should not be construed as legal, tax, investment, or other professional advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. While Retired.com believes the information presented is reliable, it does not guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Retired.com disclaims liability arising from reliance on such information. Users should consult their own legal, tax, and financial advisers regarding their specific circumstances.
© 2026 Retired.com. All rights reserved. Retired.com™ and the Retired.com Logo are trademarks of Retired.com, LLC. All other trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners.
Stocks
Precious Metals
Call us
Retired.com, LLC (“Retired.com”) is a technology platform that connects users with third-party custodians, digital wallet providers, cryptocurrency platforms, brokerage providers, and banking partners. Retired.com is not a bank, broker-dealer, exchange, custodian, or registered investment adviser, and does not provide investment, legal, or tax advice.
Investment advisory services offered through Retired Advisory, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser, pursuant to a written advisory agreement. Securities accounts are carried and cleared by Interactive Brokers LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Digital asset custody and related services are provided by Digital Trust, LLC. Banking services are provided by participating partner banks. Retired.com, LLC, Retired Advisory, LLC, Rocket Dollar Capital, LLC, and Digital Trust, LLC are wholly owned subsidiaries of WAO Fintech, LLC.
Neither the IRS nor any governmental or regulatory authority has approved or endorsed any investment or transaction available through the platform.
Investing in cryptocurrencies, digital assets, and securities involves substantial risks, including the possible loss of principal. Digital assets are highly speculative, volatile, and may become illiquid or lose value entirely. Investments are not FDIC insured, are not bank guaranteed, and may lose value.
The information provided through the platform is general and educational in nature and should not be construed as legal, tax, investment, or other professional advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. While Retired.com believes the information presented is reliable, it does not guarantee its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Retired.com disclaims liability arising from reliance on such information. Users should consult their own legal, tax, and financial advisers regarding their specific circumstances.
© 2026 Retired.com. All rights reserved. Retired.com™ and the Retired.com Logo are trademarks of Retired.com, LLC. All other trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners.