The continuing volatility of global share markets is going to be an ongoing concern for super fund members, particularly for those edging retirement, according to Dixon Advisory.
Head of advice, Nerida Cole, said while it’s important to not make “knee jerk reactions” to volatility, members should still look at how their investments are holding up against the environment, and decide which investments they want going forward.
Cole said despite initial positive signals that a ceasefire had been agreed upon between China and the US, global markets have continued to be wary.
“Although the 90-day tariff ceasefire sounds good, the reality of China and the US working through these very complex negotiations within that time frame has hit home and the share markets have had a very tough week,” she said.
Cole said the US’ concerns were broader than trade tariffs, and Australians and their super funds would continue to be affected by volatility next year as the remaining “big picture issues” are yet to be resolved.
“There is still some way to go before a more meaningful and lasting agreement on trade issues can be achieved,” she said. “Recent concerns over the rate of the US interest rate rises have also hit the Australian share market and investors are watching the Federal Reserve very closely.”
The two funds have announced the signing of a non-binding MOU to explore a potential merger.
The board must shift its focus from managing inflation to stimulating the economy with the trimmed mean inflation figure edging closer to the 2.5 per cent target, economists have said.
ASIC chair Joe Longo says superannuation trustees must do more to protect members from misconduct and high-risk schemes.
Super fund mergers are rising, but poor planning during successor fund transfers has left members and employers exposed to serious risks.