Short-term uncertainty but confidence for the long-term
The recovery of global markets showed signs of slowing in September, following a period of steady gains since falls in March, as the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impacts continue to evolve globally.
September was tough month for Australian super funds, with most funds recording negative returns for Balanced options1 for the month.
Markets move in cycles and from time to time short-term losses may occur; but we understand negative returns can be concerning for members, especially if you’re retired or nearing retirement.
It’s important to remember that superannuation is a long-term investment and over the longer term, Media Super’s Balanced options are performing strongly. Over the last 10 years, super members in the Balanced option received a return of 7.41% per annum.
Your investment returns
While we saw small negative returns for month of September, our Balanced (MySuper) option returned 1.76% for the financial year to 30 September 2020 and the pension Balanced option returned 1.95%.
It’s important to note that longer term investment returns are performing strongly and meeting their investment objectives. Our Balanced options’ returns for three, five, seven and 10 years are all above median.1
Returns based on SuperRatings Fund Crediting Survey – SR50 Balanced (60-76) Index, September 2020
Returns based on SuperRatings Fund Crediting Survey – SRP50 Balanced (60-76) Index, September 2020
Media Super’s Balanced options (MySuper and pension) are well diversified across a number of asset classes, including Australian and global shares, property, infrastructure, fixed interest, foreign currency and cash, as well as various alternative investments, such as our Fulcrum film and television financing fund.
View performance information for our full range of super, transition to retirement, and pension investment options.
Looking forward
As we move into the second quarter of the financial year, we recognise there is ongoing uncertainty due the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and the breadth and depth of recessions being seen around the world.
While recognising there will be ups and downs in financial markets, we are cautiously optimistic as we work with our investment managers and advisors to identify new investment opportunities and look for ways to enhance our existing strategies.
Looking ahead we remain confident our Balanced investment strategy is well positioned to continue meeting its long-term investment objective for your super and pension savings.
We’re here to help
If you have any questions or concerns about your investment options, or you’re considering making an investment switch, please call the Helpline on 1800 640 886.
Considering an investment switch? Make an informed decision
We understand that losses can be concerning, especially if you’re retired or nearing retirement.
Times of uncertainty are often the wrong time to switch, as it crystallises and locks in losses, and can lead to lower account balances in the long term. This is because members often don’t switch back into less defensive options when uncertainty subsides, and miss out on gains when financial markets rebound.
If you’re considering switching investment options, take the time to fully understand all options available to you and the potential impact of switching now. You can find information about our full range of investment options in the Investment Guides.
And it’s a good idea to speak to our team before making a switch, so you can talk through your concerns and fully understand the options available and associated risk. Call us on 1800 640 886 to get started.
Note: Investment returns are not guaranteed and past performance gives no indication of future returns.
1 SuperRatings Fund Crediting Rate Survey – SR50 Balanced options (60-76) Index & SRP50 Balanced options (60-76), September 2020.
