Cbus and Media Super have signed a successor fund transfer (SCT) deed as the two superannuation funds look to merge.
The funds announced in July 2020 that a merger was on the horizon and the merged entity was now set to launch in the second half of FY22 and would manage over $70 billion in funds for around 850,000 members.
Under the SFT Cbus would retain the Media Super brand to communicate with members in the print, media, entertainment and arts, and broader creative industries. The investment, management and back office functions would be shared.
Media Super chair, Susan Heaney, said: “In an environment where the complexities of regulatory change, investment opportunities and member demand for digital and advisory services are growing, it is becoming increasingly difficult for smaller superannuation funds to remain cost-competitive and provide members with more choice and opportunity to grow their retirement savings.
“By belonging to a much larger fund, Media Super members will gain investment opportunities at a lower cost and benefit from a portfolio of products and services that will help improve their retirement outcomes.”
Cbus chair, Steve Bracks, said the merged fund could deliver more for members by delivering tailored industry specific products members needed with greater scale and efficiencies.
As the Australian financial landscape faces increasing scrutiny from regulators, superannuation fund leaders are doubling down on their support for private markets, arguing these investments are not just necessary but critical for long-term financial stability.
Australian Retirement Trust (ART) is leaning on its private asset allocation to help shield members from ongoing market volatility, as its chief economist stresses the importance of long-term thinking and diversification.
AustralianSuper is poised to cement its leadership in the superannuation landscape over the next five years, with fresh research forecasting a sharp shift in the sector’s power dynamics.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has warned that significant liquidity pressures could arise in the superannuation sector if multiple risks materialise at once, potentially amplifying shocks in the financial system.