Self-directed 401k

[brxndxn]

My 401k options, while better than almost any other of my friends' 401k options, are lacking. Out of the 16 options I have, it basically boils down to 'stock market' or 'dollar.' I am quickly losing faith in both and would rather have options based on metals and other finite resources. Really, I would rather just pick my own investments through a brokerage.

If my plan does not allow for self-direction, is there anything I can do besides bug my company owners to get things changed?

 

[Blackjack200]

Commodities and metals (and other similar investment options) are usually considered speculative and therefore "unsuitable" for 401(k) investors. The reason they are not availble in your plan is because the plan sponsor is afraid that someone will lose a ton of money in the fund and sue them for even offering it as an option.

One way around this is if your 401(k) provider offers a brokerage window. The window basically allows you to buy stocks, bonds, and pretty much anything you want with your 401(k) dollars. The problem is it's usually expensive (monthly charges to your account).

 

[CPA]

Nope, not much you can do.

 

[DaveSimmons]

Pile up money in the 401k now, move it to gold, guns and canned food when you change jobs and roll it over into an IRA.

 

[Elbryn]

open a roth or traditional ira to get whatever commodities or other investments you want to fill that role in your asset allocation.

 

[Jassi]

Commodities and metals (and other similar investment options) are usually considered speculative and therefore "unsuitable" for 401(k) investors. The reason they are not availble in your plan is because the plan sponsor is afraid that someone will lose a ton of money in the fund and sue them for even offering it as an option.

One way around this is if your 401(k) provider offers a brokerage window. The window basically allows you to buy stocks, bonds, and pretty much anything you want with your 401(k) dollars. The problem is it's usually expensive (monthly charges to your account).

This.

Commodities in a 401k (particularly if it's your primary retirement savings vehicle) is a terrible idea. They are way too volatile. As suggested, use Roth or Traditional IRA for that.

You still have exposure to commodity prices via your 401k holdings. Looking at the S&P 500 funds (my main investment in a 401k), plenty of companies are directly affected by commodity prices - but probably not a good way since they are consumers of commodities and sell finished goods.