SMSFs Become the Next Crypto Frontier
The largest cryptocurrency exchanges – Coinbase and OKX – are gearing up to enter one of the world’s most robust retirement systems: Australia’s superannuation. Both are launching tailored solutions to make it easier for Australians to add crypto to their self-managed super funds (SMSFs), raising both excitement and caution among retirement savers and regulators alike.
What’s Happening?
OKX rolled out its SMSF-focused crypto platform in June 2025, offering custody services, legal and accounting referrals, and tools for streamlined audit compliance. Demand has already exceeded expectations.
Coinbase is close behind, preparing its own SMSF service. It has already amassed a waitlist of over 500 investors, the majority intending to invest up to A$100,000 each.
Why SMSFs?
SMSFs make up about 25% of all superannuation assets in Australia and have seen crypto holdings grow to A$1.7 billion as of March 2025 – a sevenfold increase since 2021.
As Fabian Bussoletti of the SMSF Association puts it:
“It does make sense that we’re probably seeing a bit more interest in crypto in the self-managed super fund space first.… perhaps the larger funds will catch up over time.”
The Stockpile Is Small – For Now
Though growing fast, crypto’s share in the SMSF market remains modest overall: just A$1.7 billion out of a A$4.3 trillion system.
Still, this move represents one of the first times global exchanges are actively packaging crypto access for retirement capital in Australia.
Tools for Invested Trustees
Both platforms offer:
- Integrated custody for digital assets
- Audit-compliant record-keeping
- Referrals to lawyers and accountants to simplify fund setup
-
Support tailored for long-term ("buy-and-hold") investors, not day-traders
- OKX emphasises technical support for SMSF trustees and professionals
OKX - Coinbase expects up to 80% of waiting-list members will establish new SMSFs, investing up to A$100,000 each.
- OKX emphasises technical support for SMSF trustees and professionals
Regulatory Watchdogs Sound the Alarm
Australian regulators remain cautious:
ASIC warns crypto assets are “highly volatile products and over-exposure can lead to substantial losses.”
ATO reminds SMSF trustees that "the objective of superannuation is to preserve savings to deliver income for a dignified retirement."
These statements underscore the need for energetic investor education and professional guidance.
Summary at a Glance
Key Trend |
Details |
|---|---|
| Target Market | SMSFs, which control ~25% of Australia’s super and allow more investment flexibility |
| Holdings Trend | Crypto in SMSFs grew from negligible levels in 2021 to A$1.7B as of March 2025 |
| Exchange Offerings | OKX (live since June); Coinbase (launching soon) – both simplify crypto integration for retirement |
| Investor Appetite | >500 subscribers on Coinbase’s waitlist; most plan to invest up to A$100K |
| Regulatory Signals | Volatility warnings by ASIC and conservative reminders by ATO about the purpose of super |
The Final Buzz
Managing digital assets inside an SMSF isn’t just about buying coins – it’s about staying compliant, audit-ready, and secure for the long haul.
Our SMSF Shield membership gives you:
- Step-by-step guidance on crypto compliance
- Templates for trustee minutes, wallet declarations, and record-keeping
- Security frameworks built for long-term asset protection
Learn more and join SMSF Shield today – safeguard your fund with confidence.
Stay safe. Stay smart. Be Crypto Safe.
Education is your best defence. Unlock member-only guides, checklists, and tools designed to protect your crypto, stay safe and be compliant.
