Hostplus, one of Australia’s largest pension funds, is exploring plans to introduce Bitcoin and other digital assets into its investment offerings, signalling a potential shift in how retirement savings are managed.
Self-directed retirement options could unlock Bitcoin access
According to a report by Bloomberg, the fund, which manages over A$150 billion ($105 billion) in assets, is considering adding crypto exposure through its self-directed investment platform, Choiceplus. This option currently allows members to manage a portion of their retirement savings independently, though it represents just 1% of the fund’s total assets.
Chief Investment Officer Sam Sicilia noted that demand from members has been a key driver behind the renewed interest. Many investors, particularly younger ones, have increasingly sought access to cryptocurrencies within their retirement portfolios. With nearly two million members and an average age in the mid-to-late 30s, Hostplus appears well-positioned to respond to this demand.
Australian pension fund Hostplus eyes crypto offering for self-directed accounts: Bloomberg
Digital asset offerings could arrive as early as next financial year, its executive said, subject to regulatory approval. pic.twitter.com/741qacyipN
— Review Trading (@ReviewTrading11) March 24, 2026
However, Sicilia emphasized that several factors remain under review, including regulatory approval, product design, and consumer protection frameworks. If approved, the digital asset offerings could roll out as early as the next financial year.
Global pension landscape slowly embraces crypto
Hostplus’ move reflects a broader, but cautious, shift among pension funds globally toward digital assets. In Australia, adoption has remained limited. AMP Limited, for example, only gained indirect exposure to bitcoin through futures in 2024, highlighting the sector’s traditionally conservative stance.
Additionally, Australian crypto hedge fund JellyC merged with Singapore-based Trovio Asset Management in a bid to secure larger investments from institutional players, including pension funds.
The U.S., meanwhile, has been more proactive in integrating crypto into its retirement systems. Last August, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that allowed 401(k) plans to include cryptocurrencies, and the state of Indiana recently enacted legislation permitting crypto allocations in specific state retirement plans.
Sicilia added that the crypto market has evolved significantly since Hostplus first assessed it nearly a decade ago. Beyond bitcoin, the fund is also exploring broader digital asset opportunities, including tokenized investments tied to sectors such as music rights.
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