Retail superannuation funds, including those offered by AMP have shared the laurels with industry and corporate funds in the latest Heron Partnership Quality Star Ratings released this week.
The ratings covered 190 major superannuation products, which included 39 commercial products, 45 industry funds, eight Government-designated funds, 21 specialist corporate products and 77 pension funds.
Of the 113 superannuation products assessed, 82 were judged as outstanding quality and awarded 5 Heron Quality Stars.
Commenting on the assessment, Heron Partnership managing director, Chris Butler said the primary goal of the rating process was to provide a realistic and objective representation of the product strengths and weaknesses.
The Heron ratings also covered MySuper products which saw 22 funds awarded five star status, with industry superannuation funds dominating.
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.