If you’ve been nervously checking your superannuation balance over the past year, you’re not alone!

With all the global economic ups and downs—especially the market tremors caused by Donald Trump’s latest economic moves, many Aussies have been left wondering if their retirement nest egg would weather the storm.

But here’s some good news to brighten your day: Australian super funds have defied the odds this financial year.


In conclusion, 2025 has been a wild ride for investors and retirees. Earlier in the year, Donald Trump’s so-called 'Liberation Day' tariffs sent shockwaves through global markets.

Major stock indexes took a nosedive, and for a moment, it looked like super balances across the country were in for a rough time.

Many of us felt that familiar pit in our stomachs as we watched our hard-earned savings dip.


But, as is often the case with investing, patience paid off. SuperRatings’ executive director Kirby Rappell said the markets staged a remarkable comeback.

'What a year. I don't think we all would have guessed we'd end up at double digits,' Mr Rappell said.

He described the journey as a true rollercoaster: up 8 per cent in the first seven months, then down to just 1% a couple of months later, before surging back to a 10 per cent gain by year’s end.


So, what’s behind this impressive recovery? The answer lies in diversified investment strategies' resilience and superannuation's long-term nature.

While short-term shocks—like Trump’s tariffs—can rattle the markets, super funds are designed to ride out these bumps.

Over the past 16 years, there have only been three years of negative returns and just five since 1992. That’s a pretty solid track record!

Mr Rappell points out that, historically, the average super fund has grown by about 7 per cent per year since 1992.

Even during the Global Financial Crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, those who stayed the course and didn’t panic-sell were rewarded in the long run.


Another interesting trend is the consolidation of the super industry. Fifteen years ago, there were around 1,500 super funds in Australia.

Today, that number has shrunk to well under 100, and it’s likely to drop even further.

This consolidation means bigger, more efficient funds with greater resources to weather market storms and innovate for their members.

Mr Rappell believes that future returns could range between 7 per cent and 14 per cent, depending on how the industry evolves.

He also stresses the importance of ongoing innovation and strong regulatory settings to keep the system working for all Australians.


For those of us in or approaching retirement, these results are a reassuring reminder that superannuation is built for the long haul.

While it’s natural to feel anxious during periods of volatility, history shows that staying invested and resisting the urge to make knee-jerk reactions is usually the best strategy.

If you’re concerned about your super, now is a great time to review your investment options and make sure your fund is working as hard as it can for you.

Many funds offer free advice sessions, so don’t hesitate to reach out and ask questions.

To navigate market volatility, stay invested, keep your super diversified, review your fund regularly, and seek expert advice.

Panicking or making rushed decisions can do more harm than good.
Have you noticed the ups and downs in your super balance this year? Did you make any changes, or did you ride out the storm? Share your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments below.

Read more: Can the United States affect your nest egg now? Here's what experts say!