SMSF investment
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Asset valuation guidelines for SMSFs
End of financial year asset valuations are routine for SMSF trustees, but they will assume even more importance with the introduction of Division 296 tax.
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SMSF valuations: Common mistakes and what really matters
SMSF valuations can affect contributions, pensions and tax outcomes. This interview explains what trustees can get wrong and why documentation and process matter just as much as the final valuation.
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Managing your SMSF in a downturn
With slower growth, higher inflation and volatile markets the order of the day, investors need a plan to help them navigate choppy waters.
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SMSF returns are competitive with large funds
SMSFs still underperform large super funds in years when markets are strong, but consistently beat the big end of town over five years.
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Payday Super is a good reminder to review your SMSF investment frequency
More frequent and timely employer super contributions are an opportunity for SMSF investors, but they are also a call to action.
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ETFs: How to use them and what they cost
Exchange-traded funds have made building a well-diversified investment portfolio easier and more cost effective than ever, as growing numbers of SMSF investors are discovering.
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SMSF loans: What are the SMSF borrowing rules?
The ability to borrow to invest gives SMSF trustees additional flexibility when choosing investment assets, but it’s not open slather. Strict rules apply.
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2025 year in review, 2026 year ahead
It was a year when hope triumphed over uncertainty on financial markets, with all major asset classes – and super funds – delivering positive returns.
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5 new year’s resolutions for your SMSF
The summer break is always a good time for trustees to review their SMSF and resolve to make it fit for whatever 2026 may bring.
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How the rich invest
Wealthy Australians have surfed the wave of strong investment returns in 2025, with a disciplined approach and a growing appetite for alternative investments.
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Diversification and your SMSF: Why and how to do it
Diversifying your portfolio is a golden rule of investing and a vital task for your SMSF as it can help reduce risk and smooth investment returns.
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SMSF investment rules: Collectables and personal use assets
An ATO crackdown on asset valuations is putting pressure on SMSFs with collectables to take stock.
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How do ETFs compare to LICs/LITs and managed funds?
Managed investments offer instant diversification, but there are important differences between the types of funds on offer – from cost to legal structure.
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SMSF investing: 20 most popular LICs/LITs
Listed investment companies and trusts are facing stiff competition from cheaper ETFs and passive index funds, but have a place in many SMSF portfolios.
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SMSF investing: 20 most popular managed funds
Traditional managed funds have been partially eclipsed by the rise of ETFs, but they remain core holdings for many SMSF investors looking to diversify.
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SMSF investing: 20 most popular international shares
Direct holdings in international shares fell in 2024–25 due to volatile market conditions but perhaps also to the growing appeal of ETFs to access global markets.
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SMSF investing: 20 most popular Australian shares
Australian shares remain the most popular asset class for SMSF investors, with portfolios dominated by the big banks and miners.
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SMSF investing: 20 most popular ETFs
Gen X and Millennials are fuelling the rapid take-up of ETFs by SMSF investors, drawn to their instant diversification, global reach, accessability and low cost.
