Crypto & Single Women: How to Think About It In Your Plan
Let’s be honest — few things make your head spin faster than the combination of politics + crypto. Between headlines about Trump’s GENIUS Act and market chatter about Bitcoin’s next bull run, it’s easy to feel like you’re either “missing out” or walking through a minefield.
Here’s the truth:
You don’t need to be a crypto expert to make smart decisions about it. You just need to understand how it fits (or doesn’t) into your financial plan.
How I Changed My Mind About Crypto
I used to stay away from crypto — too confusing, too unpredictable, too many unknowns.
Now? I believe every retirement portfolio should include a small slice (about 3–4%) of crypto. I personally use indexed ETFs like IBIT or BITW to make that exposure simple and transparent.
Why the change of heart?
A single story shifted my perspective. In April 2020, someone transferred 161,500 Bitcoin — worth more than $1.1 billion — in one transaction. It settled in ten minutes, with a transaction fee of $0.68.
Compare that to an international bank wire: one to two business days, limited banking hours, and fees ranging from 1–8%.
That was my lightbulb moment.
It hit me that our financial system is laggy. Every bank keeps its own ledger, and no one moves money until everyone verifies everyone else. Unless we all agree to use the same “shared playground” (like Venmo), every transaction gets delayed by layers of bureaucracy.
Crypto changes that. It’s built on a shared ledger — transparent, decentralized, and always open for business.
The Case for a Small Allocation
The CFA Institute Research Foundation analyzed what happens when crypto is added to a typical retirement portfolio.
Between 2014 and 2020, every 1% allocation to Bitcoin increased overall returns by 5.3% on average.
But above a 4% allocation, the maximum drawdown (how much a portfolio drops from its high point to its low point before recovering) increased rapidly.
To me, that data says it all: crypto can be a smart complement to a diversified portfolio — but moderation matters.
Why Regulation Changes Everything
The GENIUS Act, passed in July 2025, laid the groundwork for regulating stablecoins. It marks one of the first major acknowledgments by the U.S. government — a global leader in financial governance — that crypto isn’t going anywhere.
In theory, regulation brings safety and structure to what’s historically been the Wild West of investing. But as always, the details matter. Some experts see it as a green light for innovation; others warn that it still leaves consumers exposed. In other words: we’re moving toward clarity, but we’re not there yet.
What we have seen is major progress in three key areas:
Custody: Crypto can now be held with major custodians like Schwab, Fidelity, and Vanguard.
Taxation: The IRS treats crypto like property, so gains and losses are taxed consistently.
Regulation: Policymakers are paying attention — a sign that the asset class is maturing, not fading.
How to Think About Crypto in Your Plan
So where does that leave you — a smart, independent woman building real wealth on your own terms?
Here’s how I help my clients think about crypto:
1. Curiosity ≠ Commitment
It’s okay to be curious without diving in headfirst.
Learning about digital assets can expand your financial IQ — and give you new tools to diversify later. But curiosity should never become pressure. Ask questions. Read. Get clarity before you click “buy.”
2. Treat It Like Spice, Not the Main Dish
Even as crypto matures, it should complement your strategy, not replace it.
If your retirement plan, savings goals, and emergency fund aren’t solid yet, start there. Once your foundation is strong, sprinkle in a little crypto — measured, intentional, and proportionate.
3. Understand What You’re Really Buying
Bitcoin isn’t the same as stablecoins. Stablecoins aren’t the same as NFTs.
Before investing, ask: What’s the purpose of this asset? Who’s behind it? How is it regulated and backed?
If you can’t explain it simply, it’s not time to invest yet.
4. Watch Policy — Don’t Panic Over It
Yes, laws like the GENIUS Act can change the playing field. But regulation doesn’t make investing risk-free — it just changes which risks matter most.
Instead of reacting to every headline, use them as reminders to review your portfolio and goals. Your money deserves steady hands, not knee-jerk reactions.
5. Invest With Hope and Caution
Crypto’s rise reflects something bigger: a desire for innovation, independence, and new ways to build wealth. That’s exciting — and a little scary.
But optimism paired with discipline? That’s where real power lies.
If you’re curious about how digital assets could fit into your financial plan — without the hype, fear, or confusion — I’d love to help you explore it. We’ll look at your goals, your risk tolerance, and your timeline, then decide if and how crypto deserves a seat at your financial table.
Because financial freedom doesn’t come from chasing trends — it comes from understanding your options and owning your choices