Posted Wednesday, December 10, 2025 9:57 am

By Jason LaBarge | Financial Advisor and President, LaBarge Financial

I’m a father of five children, and I’m in charge of guiding them to explore the world for the first time in their lives, with new experiences every day. While that can be exciting, it can also be scary. For example, when I took each of my older kids swimming at Severna River Swim Club for the first time, they were scared to jump in.

As a financial advisor, I feel that same hesitancy when considering new investment options. There are thousands of options to invest in, and when cryptocurrency rose to prominence just over a decade ago, I was admittedly skeptical. Many investors viewed it as too risky. For example, Bitcoin fell 53% in one week in May 2021.

However, Bitcoin value has since come back and currently, one Bitcoin is worth about $100,000, emerging as a possible investment option investors may consider. Just this year, Bitcoin reached a high of over $120,000 and a low of $75,000. If you are considering investing in cryptocurrency, here’s what you should consider.

Risk And Volatility

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency that, unlike traditional money, isn’t created or backed by a government. The cryptocurrency world is rapidly evolving, with new Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) guidance anticipated under a more crypto-friendly administration regarding crypto-based investment options. For example, in August 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to lay the groundwork for expanding investment choices in retirement plans to include alternatives like cryptocurrency for employer-sponsored 401(k)s.

Even with the long-term growth of cryptocurrency, especially in the last year, it’s impossible to ignore the risk. Investors in their 20s or 30s may have years to recover from large losses. Those approaching or in retirement typically are less interested in higher-risk products for their investments.

There may be benefits to crypto investments for some clients, but investing too heavily in any one asset class leaves investors susceptible to large market swings and potential. Diversifying investments typically will balance growth while helping to protect money from market risk.

Investing In Cryptocurrency

Cryptocurrency is not like it was when Bitcoin was first established in 2009. The market has grown to include numerous options like Ethereum, Tether and Binance Coin, which makes entering the market daunting.

There are alternative options available for crypto investing. For example, some people may choose to invest in companies that focus on cryptocurrency, or crypto-focused index funds that follow the growth of cryptocurrency, similar to the S&P 500 index fund that tracks the growth of the top 500 leading companies. Others may choose to invest directly using a third-party cryptocurrency platform.

If you are saving for retirement, a Roth IRA may be an option to consider for the tax benefits afforded in a retirement plan. These plans offer a variety of investment options and can be a central place to hold investments that could include some crypto-based options if appropriate based on your specific circumstances.

Consult A Professional

My kids eventually jumped into the pool and love swimming now, and I have taken a lesson from them at LaBarge Financial. While I remain skeptical, the growth has made cryptocurrency impossible to ignore.

Each investment option carries its positives and negatives. Do extensive research before investing your hard-earned money in these products. Consult with a financial professional who can help you understand investment options based on your specific risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Jason LaBarge, financial advisor and president of LaBarge Financial
7 Riggs Avenue, Severna Park, MD 21146
443-647-4321
www.labargefinancial.com

Investing in any securities, including crypto, comes with risk and potential to lose principal value. This is for educational purposes only and not a recommendation to buy or sell cryptocurrency or investment alternatives. **As of October 6, 2025.

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory products and services made available through AE Wealth Management LLC (AEWM), a registered investment advisor. Not all crypto-based securities are available through MAS/AEWM. MAS/AEWM and LaBarge Financial are not affiliated entities.

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