Indiana prepares to put bitcoin (BTC) in its public retirement plans

CoinDesk

by Olivier Acuna

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Indiana has taken a significant step in its approach to cryptocurrency by passing HB 1042, which allows public retirement funds to invest in Bitcoin (BTC) and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). However, the legislation also includes a ban on crypto ATMs due to growing concerns about fraudulent activities. Governor Mike Braun is expected to sign this bill into law soon, aligning Indiana with other states like Wyoming, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Arizona that have integrated cryptocurrency into their public investment frameworks. The move reflects a broader trend across the U.S., with 21 states either already investing in or evaluating investments in digital assets. This shift gained momentum following President Donald Trump’s initiative to establish a Bitcoin Strategic Reserve. States are increasingly looking to crypto as part of their financial strategies, particularly focusing on Bitcoin and stablecoins. The bill addresses fraud risks tied to crypto ATMs by prohibiting their operation in Indiana. This decision comes after reports of significant losses from crypto ATM scams, including a $400,000 loss reported in Evansville, Indiana, in 2025. National statistics show a surge in crypto ATM fraud, with the FBI estimating $240 million lost in the first half of 2025 and nearly 11,000 complaints filed in 2024—a 99% increase from the previous year. These developments highlight Indiana’s proactive approach to balancing investment opportunities in cryptocurrency with efforts to mitigate risks. By allowing public funds to invest in digital assets while addressing fraud concerns, Indiana is part of a growing movement aiming to make the U.S. a leading crypto market. This balance between innovation and regulation makes the state’s actions significant for both investors and regulators.

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Originally published on CoinDesk on 2/26/2026