Super funds post seventh straight month of gains

Super funds have extended their winning streak, with balanced options rising 1.3 per cent in October amid broad market optimism.

Superannuation funds have continued their strong run of positive returns in October, with research house SuperRatings estimating that the median balanced option has delivered a 1.3 per cent gain for members over the month.

October has marked the seventh consecutive month of positive returns, making this year the sixth time in 25 years that the first four months of the financial year have all been positive.

“Share markets continued to remain optimistic over October driving a good return for the month,” said SuperRatings director Kirby Rappell.

“While international shares remain the key driver, Australian shares had a better month, and outcomes were positive across key asset classes.”

According to SuperRatings’ estimates, the median growth option has grown by 1.4 per cent in October, while the median capital stable option has risen 0.8 per cent.

For accumulation funds to 31 October 2025, the median balanced option returned 4.9 per cent for the financial year to date, 11.5 per cent over one year, and 10.4 per cent per annum over three years.

Meanwhile, the median growth option has returned 5.6 per cent for the financial year to date and 12.9 per cent over the past year, while the capital stable option has risen 2.8 per cent over the same period.

Pension funds have also seen robust gains, with the median balanced pension option up an estimated 1.4 per cent in October.

The median capital stable pension option has grown 0.9 per cent, and the median growth pension option has advanced 1.5 per cent.

Over the longer term, the median balanced pension option has delivered 12.7 per cent over one year and 11.6 per cent per annum over three years. The median growth pension option has achieved 14.2 per cent over one year, while the capital stable pension option has delivered 8.6 per cent.

“November brought the second consecutive month of interest rates being left on hold by the Reserve Bank of Australia with inflation sitting higher than anticipated,” Rappell said.

“Geopolitical tensions continue to create the potential for market shocks meaning we may see some more bumps in the road over the coming months.

“However, funds have had a strong start to the financial year and returns remain well above objectives over the long term. We encourage members to review any changes with their long-term strategy in mind and seek advice if they are unsure how to maximise their final retirement outcomes.”