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When uncertainties matter: The causal effect of cryptocurrency investment on retirement hardship withdrawals

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  • Bai, Zefeng
  • Wang, Pengcheng
  • Zhang, Hengwei

Abstract

Cryptocurrencies are invested in by approximately 15% of U.S. households. However, the high volatility of these assets poses substantial financial risks, particularly as 40% of U.S. households already face potential retirement shortages. Therefore, the present study aims at investigating the impact of cryptocurrency investment on retirement borrowing. Our causal analysis of 1,912 respondents revealed that cryptocurrency investors are 7.4% more likely to make a hardship withdrawal from their retirement accounts. This study provides insights for researchers and practitioners on managing retirement accounts by highlighting the potential financial risks associated with cryptocurrency investments.

Suggested Citation

  • Bai, Zefeng & Wang, Pengcheng & Zhang, Hengwei, 2024. "When uncertainties matter: The causal effect of cryptocurrency investment on retirement hardship withdrawals," Finance Research Letters, Elsevier, vol. 67(PB).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:finlet:v:67:y:2024:i:pb:s1544612324009826
    DOI: 10.1016/j.frl.2024.105952
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