Public has agreed to acquire the CryptoIRA business from Alto, marking a significant expansion of its digital asset capabilities as crypto demand continues to rise among long-term investors. The move positions Public to offer cryptocurrency trading within IRAs starting in early 2026, adding tax-advantaged crypto investing to its growing suite of products.
The transition will take place over several months as Alto’s CryptoIRA accounts migrate to Public’s platform. Until the integration is complete, customers will continue using Alto’s existing interface. Once moved, investors will be able to trade cryptocurrencies through Public while accessing the full range of assets already available on the platform.
The acquisition also represents an important milestone for Alto, as it enters its first enterprise partnership under its new Custodial Infrastructure as a Service model. While Alto will step back from direct participation in crypto investing, it will continue offering self directed IRA access to private market opportunities ranging from private equity and private credit to real estate and infrastructure.
The rise of institutional participation in digital assets, combined with improving regulatory conditions, has contributed to a greater consumer interest in crypto over the past year. Public has responded by adding more coins, enabling API based crypto trading, and is now preparing to support crypto trading inside IRAs. The integration of Alto’s technology will provide Public with the necessary infrastructure to meet this demand across both taxable and tax-advantaged accounts.
Crypto IRAs offer the ability to buy and sell digital assets without the taxable events that typically occur in standard brokerage accounts. As with other IRAs, earnings may grow tax-deferred or tax-free, depending on the account type, allowing investors to build diversified crypto portfolios for retirement.
Existing Alto CryptoIRA users will see no immediate changes and can continue to manage their accounts through Alto’s platform. Once the systems merge, they will gain access through Public and be able to invest seamlessly across all supported asset classes.
KEY QUOTES
“Public is now one of the only platforms where customers can trade crypto in their IRAs, and we continue to expand on our crypto offering for our members as demand grows. Alto’s CryptoIRA product is another way we’re offering our investors sophisticated products to build long term wealth.”
Leif Abraham, Co-CEO and Co-Founder, Public
“Alto wanted the right crypto distribution partner who truly understands the unique needs of sophisticated investors in this dynamic asset class, and there’s no question Public is that partner. We will continue to serve as the custodian for these accounts, while our customers get a best in class trading experience with Public. It’s a win for our customers, a win for Alto, and a win for Public.”
Eric Satz, CEO and Founder, Alto
