In 2025, Australian self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF) reduced their share of cryptocurrency investments by 4%, despite significant growth in the digital asset market. According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), the volume of crypto-assets in SMSF decreased from 3.12 billion Australian dollars in June 2024 to 3.02 billion in June 2025. This occurred against the backdrop of a price increase of $BTC by 60%, highlighting investors' caution regarding volatility.
SMSFs, which make up a quarter of Australia's pension system valued at $4.3 trillion, allow for individual control over investments. However, traditional assets such as stocks, real estate, and deposits remain a priority. The growth of crypto investments among young Australians (53% aged 25–34 own crypto) contrasts with the conservatism of older generations. Experts like Simon Ho from Coinstash note that ATO data may be understated due to late tax return submissions, but the trend towards reduction is clear.
Regulators, including ASIC, warn of risks: hacker attacks, loss of passwords, and the speculative nature of crypto. In 2024, a hacker attack on an exchange cost $50 million. New rules from mid-2025 require licensing for exchanges and enhanced AML oversight. Platforms like Coinbase and OKX are implementing SMSF services with custody and reporting, easing access, but demand exceeds expectations.
Globally, in the USA and UK, crypto is being integrated into pension plans, but in Australia, large funds like AustralianSuper avoid direct investments. The reduction in share reflects a balance between potential returns and the protection of retirement savings. Younger generations may change the trend, but the risk remains high.
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