Median balanced superannuation funds will have an annual return of about 15% by the end of the year and this is a result not seen since 2013, according to SuperRatings.
According to SuperRatings, funds had “done a good job” of managing uncertainty brought by global risks and challenging economic conditions.
It said over the past five years the median balanced options returned an estimated 7.9% per annum, compared to 8.7% per annum for growth and 4.9% per annum for capital stable.
The median balanced pension option over 2019 returned an estimate 16.3% year-to-date to the end of November, compared to 19.6% for growth and 9.6% for capital stable.
SuperRatings executive director, Kirby Rappell, said: “It’s been a nervous year for investors, so it’s great to see that super can deliver some much-needed stability and solid returns during this period. There might not be a lot of positive economic news at the moment, but at least super is one story we can all draw some hope from.
“We expect to see an increase in fund mergers in 2020, but it’s important that regulatory responses don’t move us towards a one-size-fits-all approach, which could be detrimental to member outcomes."
Super funds have built on early financial year momentum, as growth funds deliver strong results driven by equities and resilient bonds.
The super fund has announced that Mark Rider will step down from his position of chief investment officer (CIO) after deciding to “semi-retire” from full-time work.
Rest has joined forces with alternative asset manager Blue Owl Capital, co-investing in a real estate trust, with the aim of capitalising on systemic changes in debt financing.
The Future Fund’s CIO Ben Samild has announced his resignation, with his deputy to assume the role of interim CIO.