Self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF) are growing in popularity. They provide more freedom to investors including the ability to borrow money, buy artwork and directly invest in property. This freedom makes them the fastest growing area of superannuation in Australia. The market share of a SMSF is approximately 29% which is in excess of $578 billion^.
The benefits of a SMSF can be:
- Increased control – you get to decide where your money goes
- Increased Investment choice i.e. direct property
- Economies of scale – the bigger the SMSF the lower the fees
- Can have up to 4 members (for example husband and wife)
- Leverage – can borrow money to invest
The downsidescan be:
- Higher fees
- An increased burden of compliance
- The potential of increased time and effort
^ASFA – The Voice of Super – Superannuation Statistics December 2015