Quick Breakdown
- Australian SMSF crypto holdings fell 4% year-on-year to AU$3.02B despite Bitcoin’s 60% surge.
- Analysts say the figures understate real allocations, with holdings up 41% since 2023.
- Exchanges like Coinbase and OKX are rolling out SMSF services as retirement-focused adoption grows.
SMSF crypto assets fall despite market surge
Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) in Australia reported a 4% year-on-year decline in crypto holdings, according to fresh data from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Figures show that as of June 2025, SMSF crypto assets stood at AU$3.02 billion (US$1.97 billion) down from AU$3.12 billion the previous year.
The fall came despite Bitcoin price rising nearly 60% during the same period, while the total Asia-Pacific region increased its status as the “global hub of grassroots crypto activity,” according to a recent Chainalysis report.
Demographics and future potential
ATO data shows SMSFs are largely dominated by members over 35, with those aged 75–84 representing the largest share (13.7%). However, a separate survey by Independent Reserve revealed that 53% of Australians aged 25–34 own crypto, suggesting a generational shift could reshape SMSF investment strategies in the coming years.
Exchanges prepare for retirement adoption
With younger demographics showing stronger interest, Australian exchanges are already preparing for a wave of retirement-driven crypto demand. Bloomberg reported this week that Coinbase and OKX will launch SMSF services in Australia to capture the growing segment. The industry is also urging the re-elected Labor government to fast-track digital asset legislation to maintain competitiveness.
Global momentum for crypto retirement funds
The trend extends beyond Australia. In the UK, an Aviva survey found 27% of adults are open to holding crypto in retirement portfolios, with higher returns cited as the main draw. Meanwhile, the growing interest comes as the U.S. takes a bold step forward, with President Donald Trump recently signing an executive order allowing 401(k) retirement plans to allocate to Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, potentially unlocking access to over $9 trillion in assets.
Additionally, North Carolina is exploring the inclusion of cryptocurrency in its state retirement system, with lawmakers introducing two related bills on March 24 and 25.
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