Kirby Rappell
The strong run of positive returns for superannuation funds continued in October with superannuation research house SuperRatings estimating that the median balanced option returned 1.3% to members over the month. October marks the seventh consecutive month of positive returns, while also making this year the sixth time over the past 25 years the first four months of the financial year have all delivered positive returns.
“Share markets continued to remain optimistic over October driving a good return for the month” commented Kirby Rappell, Director of SuperRatings. “While international shares remain the key driver, Australian shares had a better month, and outcomes were positive across key asset classes.”
The median growth option grew by an estimated 1.4% in October, while the median capital stable option grew by 0.8%.
Pension returns were also strong over the month, with the median balanced pension option increasing by an estimated 1.4%. The median capital stable pension option is estimated to grow 0.9% over the month while the median growth pension option is estimated to rise 1.5% for the same period.
“November brought the second consecutive month of interest rates being left on hold by the Reserve Bank of Australia with inflation sitting higher than anticipated. Geopolitical tensions continue to create the potential for market shocks meaning we may see some more bumps in the road over the coming months” continued Mr Rappell. “However, funds have had a strong start to the financial year and returns remain well above objectives over the long term. We encourage members to review any changes with their long-term strategy in mind and seek advice if they are unsure how to maximise their final retirement outcomes.”