Australian SMSF Crypto Holdings Dip Amid Rising Retirement Interest

Crypto holdings in Australian Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) have seen a 4% year-on-year decline, despite a broader crypto market rally, according to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). As of June 2025, SMSF crypto assets were valued at A$3.02 billion, down from A$3.12 billion in June 2024, when adjusted for consistent valuation. This decline occurred even as Bitcoin’s price surged by approximately 60% during the same period [1].

The drop in holdings was noted despite the Asia-Pacific region being labeled the “global hub of grassroots crypto activity” by Chainalysis. Simon Ho, head of SMSF strategy at Coinstash, suggested that the reported figures might be misleading, as the June 2025 data is based on tax return filings due by May 2026, which may not yet reflect current market conditions [1]. He emphasized that SMSF crypto holdings were 41% higher in June 2025 compared to June 2023, aligning with increased regulatory clarity from the Australian government.

SMSFs allow individuals to manage their retirement savings independently, typically accessible from age 60. These funds are predominantly held by individuals over 35, with the largest proportion in the 75–84 age group. However, younger Australians, particularly those aged 25–34, are showing strong interest in crypto, with over 50% owning digital assets [1]. This trend could shift the SMSF landscape as younger generations approach retirement age and bring their crypto exposure into retirement planning.

Crypto exchanges in Australia are already preparing for increased adoption. Major platforms like Coinbase and OKX are launching dedicated SMSF services, offering custody and referral services to accountants and legal professionals. As of March 2025, SMSFs held A$1.7 billion in crypto assets, a sevenfold increase since 2021 [3]. Demand for these services is high, with over 500 investors waiting for Coinbase's SMSF offering and OKX reporting higher-than-expected interest [3].

Globally, the integration of crypto into retirement planning is gaining traction. A survey of 2,000 UK adults by Aviva found that 27% were open to holding crypto in their retirement funds, citing potential higher returns as a key motivation. In the United States, President Donald Trump signed an executive order in August 2025 allowing 401(k) plans to include cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin [4]. These developments highlight the growing mainstream acceptance of crypto as part of long-term investment strategies, despite regulatory concerns over volatility and risk.

Australian regulators, including the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), continue to warn of the risks associated with crypto investments in SMSFs. Despite these cautionary messages, the rapid growth in crypto adoption among SMSF holders suggests a potential shift in broader regulatory approaches. As larger pension funds and institutional investors observe SMSF trends, the integration of crypto into Australia’s retirement system may continue to expand, potentially influencing global retirement investment strategies.

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[1] DIY retirement savers in Australia trim crypto nest eggs by 4% (https://cointelegraph.com/news/crypto-investment-australia-retirement-funds-ato)

[2] Crypto Finds Gateway Into Australia's $2.8 Trillion ... (https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-31/crypto-finds-gateway-into-australia-s-2-8-trillion-pensions-pot)

[3] Coinbase, OKX Target Australia's $2.8T Pension Market ... (https://www.livebitcoinnews.com/coinbase-okx-target-australias-2-8t-pension-market-with-crypto-offerings/)

[4] Coinbase, OKX push crypto into Australia's retirement system (https://cointelegraph.com/news/coinbase-okx-crypto-australia-retirement-system)