SMSFs Turning to Crypto
Australia’s superannuation landscape is shifting. What was once a cautious space dominated by shares, term deposits, and cash is now seeing trustees actively explore digital assets like Bitcoin. The trend is clear: SMSF investors are no longer standing on the sidelines.
Recent data shows just how far things have come:
36.4% of SMSF investors say they’re likely to invest in Bitcoin – a huge leap from just 13.6% back in 2019.
22.2% prefer exposure through crypto exchanges, reflecting a willingness to use mainstream trading platforms.
14.2% favour ETFs, though that number has dipped slightly compared to past years.
Source: Independent Reserve Cryptocurrency Index (IRCI) 2025 report
What does this tell us? Trustees are experimenting. They want exposure, but they’re also weighing up convenience versus compliance.
The Bigger Picture: Mainstream Super Funds Join the Mix
It’s not just SMSFs. Mainstream super funds are slowly dipping their toes in.
18% of Australians would like to see their super fund hold Bitcoin – up 5% in a single year.
The strongest interest comes from 25–34 year olds (32.3%).
Among existing crypto investors, one in three (33.8%) would like their super fund to offer Bitcoin.
In late 2024, AMP became the first Australian super fund to include Bitcoin, albeit just 0.05% of its portfolio. It’s small, but symbolically huge – a signal that digital assets are edging into the mainstream.
What This Means for SMSF Trustees
If you run an SMSF, you already know your role comes with more responsibility than a regular super fund member. Adding crypto into the mix brings both opportunity and obligation:
- Opportunity: Crypto offers diversification and growth potential. You control how it fits into your retirement plan.
- Obligation: SMSFs must remain compliant. Every trade, wallet, and valuation needs to stand up to audit scrutiny.
Why Education is Your Edge
The difference between a smooth SMSF audit and a stressful one often comes down to record-keeping, tax treatment, and wallet ownership documentation. Most of this isn’t complicated – it just requires knowing what to put in place early.
That’s exactly why we’ve built resources for both first-time SMSF crypto investors and those already managing digital assets in our SMSF Shield membership.
- For beginners: Clear guides on choosing an exchange, setting up a wallet, and documenting your first trade.
- For experienced trustees: Advanced checklists and downloads covering tax, audit preparation, and ATO guidance.
The Final Buzz
The data says it all: more Australians want crypto in their super, and SMSF trustees are leading the way. Whether you’re just considering your first Bitcoin buy or you already hold crypto in your fund, the next step is making sure you’re strategic, compliant, and future-ready.
Stay ahead of the curve, and more importantly – stay on the right side of the ATO.
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.
