Resources

Super funds navigate the crisis to deliver surprise result

17/Jul/2020

Super funds have successfully navigated the coronavirus-induced financial crisis to deliver a result that should come as a pleasant surprise for their members. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) finished the 2019/20 financial year with a loss of just 0.5%. In fact, nearly half the funds in our growth category managed to generate a positive return, albeit a small one, despite the worst economic conditions since the GFC.

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Zenith completes the acquisition of Chant West

01/Jul/2020

Zenith Investment Partners confirmed today that it has completed the acquisition of the Chant West superannuation and consultancy business from ASX listed company Chant West Holding Ltd, (ASX: CWL).

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A negative year, but a good result in the circumstances

30/Jun/2020

Barring an extraordinary final day, super funds are set to post a small negative return for the 2019/20 financial year – the first in 11 years. With one business day remaining, Chant West’s early estimate is that the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) will return -1.3%. While a negative result is never welcome, containing the loss to such a small number must be considered a good outcome considering the chaos the world has been thrown into by COVID-19.

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Super continues to claw back from COVID-19 lows

17/Jun/2020

Super funds rose for the second consecutive month in May, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) up 2.2% as share markets continued to rally. With markets also up in June so far, we estimate that the financial year return is sitting at zero mid-way through the month so, remarkably, a positive year remains a real possibility. A final result that is flat or close to flat would be an excellent outcome considering the chaos the world has been thrown into by COVID-19.

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An April bounce but no light yet at the end of the tunnel

18/May/2020

After losing 12% over February and March as investors reacted to the potential economic impact of COVID-19, super funds had some respite in April. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) bounced back 3.1% on the back of rallying share markets. However, this still leaves the return for the ten months of the financial year to date in the red at -3.3%.

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Sunsuper shines winning three Chant West Awards

15/May/2020

Sunsuper has surpassed all other super funds in the country to be named Chant West Super Fund of the Year. QSuper took out two awards including the other big award of the day, Pension Fund of the Year, and Best Fund: Investments.

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Super funds' record bull run ends but don't panic

20/Apr/2020

The rapid spread of COVID-19 and its potential impact on the global economy drove a worldwide sell-off in share markets in March. This resulted in the median growth superannuation fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) falling 9% for the month and 10.1% for the quarter. The return for the first nine months of the financial year also turned negative at -6.3%.

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Chant West's response to COVID-19

22/Mar/2020

Our priority is the health and safety of staff, clients and suppliers, whilst maintaining the provision of our services.

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Super funds backtrack as pandemic triggers global asset sell-off

17/Mar/2020

Investor concerns over the spread of COVID-19 prompted a widespread sell-off in share and property markets, resulting in the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) falling 3.1% in February. Since then, the virus has spread at an exponential rate. Major share markets reversed from bull to bear phase in an unprecedented three weeks, and we estimate that the median growth fund is down a further 10.5% over March to date. However, with markets whipsawing from session to session and even within a day's trading session, this figure is fluctuating every day.

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Zenith announces acquisition of Chant West, supporting the growth ambitions of both businesses

18/Feb/2020

Zenith Investment Partners has announced today that it has entered into an agreement to purchase the Chant West superannuation and consultancy business from ASX listed company Chant West Holding Ltd, (ASX: CWL).

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Super funds hit the ground running in 2020

18/Feb/2020

After a stellar 2019 when the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth funds) returned 14.7%, super funds kicked off the new year with an impressive start, returning 1.9% in January. This was on the back of a strong month for Australian shares, local and overseas bonds and the depreciation of the Australian dollar. The momentum has continued into February, too, and we estimate that the median growth fund is up a further 1.5% this month so far.

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2019 a standout year for super funds

17/Jan/2020

Super funds put in an outstanding performance in 2019, with the median growth fund up 14.7%. This was the best calendar year return since 2013 and the seventh best in the entire 27½ year history of compulsory superannuation. UniSuper Balanced took out top spot with a lofty return of 18.4%. Even the worst performer in our growth category returned a healthy 10.5%, which was nearly 9% above the rate of inflation. Growth funds are those that have a 61 to 80% allocation to growth assets and are the ones in which the majority of Australians are invested.

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Super funds heading for a bumper result for 2019

17/Dec/2019

Against the expectations of many experts, super funds are closing in on a bumper result for the 2019 calendar year. After another strong month in November there is a strong likelihood of an annual return well into the double digits. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) was up 1.9% for the month, pushing the return for the first eleven months of the year to 14.4%. Markets have been relatively flat so far in December so we estimate that, with two weeks to go, the calendar year return is still sitting close to 14.5% – a very impressive result.

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To weed out underperformers, we first need to set the bar

28/Nov/2019

The two main weaknesses of our superannuation system are the proliferation of multiple member accounts and the defaulting of members into underperforming funds. These are both problems that have been highlighted by the Productivity Commission, and they need to be fixed in order to make the system more efficient and deliver improved retirement outcomes. Identifying underperforming funds is the focus of this article and is also the focus of APRA’s newly launched ‘Heatmap’. APRA’s methodology is broadly similar to ours and we comment later on what it could mean for our industry.

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Super funds approaching double digit return for 2019

17/Nov/2019

Super funds got a lift from positive global share markets in October, and now have a good chance of finishing the calendar year in double digit territory. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) was up 0.4% for the month, pushing the return for the first ten months of 2019 to an impressive 12.8%. Midway through November, that figure has increased further to an estimated 14.3%.

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Super funds pull back but bonds limit the damage

17/Sep/2019

After a positive start to the new financial year, super funds were down slightly in August with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) returning -0.5%. This came on the back of a 1.4% advance in July, so the net effect is still a gain of 0.9% over the first two months of the financial year.

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Chant West and Conexus Financial join forces for super fund awards

19/Aug/2019

Chant West and Conexus Financial will come together from 2020 to host a joint annual super fund awards, replacing their individual awards. The partnership recognises calls from the super industry in recent years for less awards. The co-branded Chant West & Conexus Financial awards will comprise the well-respected data, technology and methodology of Chant West at an event hosted and promoted by Conexus Financial.

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Up-and-down start to new financial year as share markets ride tariff war turbulence

16/Aug/2019

Having just delivered a 10th consecutive positive financial year return, super funds have had a mixed start to 2019/20 with markets responding to the escalating tariff feud between the US and China. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) was up 1.4% in July. However, with markets down in the first half of August those gains have been reversed and the median fund is in the red for the new financial year so far.

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Whatever the markets deliver, the best investors still find ways to stand out from the crowd

14/Aug/2019

The 2019 financial year was an unusual one for investment markets. All the main sectors produced positive results, there were no ‘must have’ assets that would guarantee above-average returns, and so fund performance was clustered far closer than usual. Yet some familiar names still found their way to the top of the year’s performance tables. What is the secret of their success? 

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Super funds deliver record-breaking 10th straight positive year

17/Jul/2019

Super funds have delivered a record-breaking 10th consecutive positive financial year return, with the median growth fund up 7% in the year to 30 June 2019. QSuper and UniSuper tied for top spot for the year, returning a very impressive 9.9%. Even the worst performer in our growth category returned 4.3%. Growth funds are those that have a 61 to 80% allocation to growth assets and are the ones in which most Australians are invested.

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UniSuper podcast features Chant West Super Fund Awards

10/Jul/2019

Ian Fryer, Head of Research, spoke to UniSuper’s official podcast, Super Informed Radio, about the Chant West Super Fund Awards.

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Super funds deliver ten straight positive years to break record

27/Jun/2019

Super funds are poised to deliver a positive return for a record-breaking 10th consecutive financial year. With just two business days remaining, Chant West's early estimate is that the median growth fund will post a return of 7.1% for 2018/19. Growth funds are those that have 61 to 80% of their investments in growth assets, and they are the ones in which the majority of Australian workers are invested.

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Super funds on the brink of a record-breaking run

18/Jun/2019

With less than two weeks of the financial year remaining, super funds are on the brink of a record-breaking 10th consecutive positive return for members. While the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) was down 0.7% in May, the return over the first 11 months of the financial year was 4.6% and June has been positive so far.

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UniSuper picks up three Chant West Awards

23/May/2019

UniSuper has surpassed all other super funds in the country to be named Chant West Super Fund of the Year. QSuper took out the other big award of the night, Pension Fund of the Year.

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April gains propel funds closer to another positive financial year

16/May/2019

Super fund returns were up for the fourth consecutive month in April, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) riding the ongoing rally in share markets for a gain of 1.7%. Coming on the back of the 6.1% return for the March quarter, the return over the first 10 months of the financial year is now firmly in positive territory at 5.2%.

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Asset allocation shifts have driven performance and added resilience

14/May/2019

Chant West’s annual Super Fund Awards night is fast approaching, and in recent months we have been busy re-evaluating our ratings of funds across a range of criteria. The most important of these criteria remains investments, because how funds invest has the greatest bearing on the eventual outcomes of their members. For that reason, investments carries a weighting of 40% in our overall rating scores.

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Super back in the black as shares rebound

17/Apr/2019

After a disappointing end to 2018, super funds bounced back over the March quarter with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) gaining 6%. This brought the return over the first nine months of the 2018/19 financial year back into the black at 3.3%.

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Chant West Awards help lift super industry standards

25/Mar/2019

The country’s best super and pension funds will be recognised at Chant West’s seventh annual Super Fund Awards on 22 May 2019.

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Share surge continues to buoy super funds in February

19/Mar/2019

Super funds have kept up their strong start to 2019, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) gaining 2.7% in February on the back of the ongoing rally in share markets. Following on from the 2.5% gain in January, February’s result has brought the return over the first eight months of the financial year to 2.6%.

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Super funds off to a flyer in 2019

18/Feb/2019

After a flat 2018, super funds had a strong start to 2019 on the back of rallying share markets. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) gained 2.5% in January. Early February has seen the share market rally continue which has driven the median growth fund up a further 2.1% this month so far.

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Chant West shortlisted for the prestigious Fintech Business Awards

06/Feb/2019

Chant West has been named as a finalist for the Software Innovator of the Year category at the 2019 Fintech Business Awards.

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Super funds survive a late market stumble to eke out a positive return

18/Jan/2019

Super funds weathered a jittery December quarter on world share markets to finish the 2018 calendar year in the black, if only barely. The 0.8% return, while the lowest since 2011, nonetheless extended the run of positive years to seven.

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We need to deal with multiple accounts and get rid of poor-performing default funds

22/Jan/2019

Chant West agrees with the main two findings of the Productivity Commission report – there are too many unintended multiple accounts and too many people are defaulted into poor-performing funds. And since these are the main problems, any changes to the system should focus on addressing these two issues.

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Super funds eye a flat 2018 return as share market woes persist

18/Dec/2018

Further share market falls in November are weighing on investment returns, with super funds heading towards a flat calendar year result. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) retreated 0.6% in November, pulling back the return for the first eleven months of 2018 to 1.8%. Further sharemarket losses over the first half of December have reduced that figure to an estimated 0.5%.

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After five years of MySuper, what have we learned?

01/Dec/2018

1 January 2019 marked the fifth anniversary of MySuper, the Government’s mechanism for directing default superannuation contributions into funds that offered ‘a simple, cost-effective, balanced product’ and met minimum standards. There were early fears that the focus on costs would result in a ‘race to the bottom’, with performance sacrificed in the competitive drive to reduce fees but largely this has not happened. What has been more pronounced is the use of lifecycle strategies which we expect will grow.

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Chant West expects modest super fund return for 2018

19/Nov/2018

October’s share market falls mean that super funds are heading towards a more modest calendar year result than in recent years. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) slipped 3% in October, pulling back the return for the first ten months of 2018 to 2.4%. Midway through November that figure has reduced further to an estimated 1.8%. But according to Chant West, this is not a bad result considering the recent falls in markets.

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A solid quarter undone by October jitters

17/Oct/2018

Super funds got off to a solid start to the 2018/19 financial year, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) returning 2.1% for the September quarter. However, the first half of October has seen a change of fortunes. Share market jitters, triggered by rising US interest rates and the escalating US/China trade war, have driven the median growth fund about 2.3% lower so far this month.

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Shares, currency drive super funds forward in August

18/Sep/2018

Following on from a 1.1% return in July, super funds continued their good start to the 2018/19 financial year with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) posting a further 1% gain in August.

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What’s going on with not-for-profit funds and growth/defensive assets?

14/Sep/2018

Not- for-profit funds have outperformed retail funds over the medium and long term. But have they done so by taking on more risk by significant investments in unlisted property and infrastructure? This article will explore this contentious issue that has been drawing lots of attention in recent months.

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Super funds off to a good start for 2018/19

20/Aug/2018

Fresh off a healthy 9.4% return in 2017/18, super funds have kept up the momentum going into the new financial year. The median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) posted a return of 1.1% in July.

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Chant West has its say on Productivity Commission's superannuation recommendations

30/Jul/2018

​Chant West recently submitted its response to the Productivity Commission’s draft report on superannuation. We support the Productivity Commission’s recommendations in general but we have some suggested changes that we believe will lead to better member outcomes.

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Super funds have that positive feeling – yet again

19/Jul/2018

UPDATE: When this media release was issued on 19 July 2018, we had data for 57 out of the 61 investment options. Subsequently, we have all 61 and the median return for growth funds has increased to 9.4% for 2017/18.

The 2017/18 financial year turned out to be another excellent one for super funds and their members. The median growth fund finished the year up a very healthy 9.2% – a record-equalling ninth consecutive positive year and well ahead of the funds’ own performance targets. Hostplus took the top spot for the second year in a row, returning 12.5%. Every fund in our growth category easily bettered the rate of inflation, and even the lowest performer delivered a respectable 6.5%. Growth funds have a 61 to 80% allocation to growth assets and are the ones in which most Australians are invested.

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Nine straight positive years equals the super record

28/Jun/2018

Super funds are poised to deliver a positive return for a ninth consecutive financial year. The only previous time we had a streak that long was from 1992/93 to 2000/01. With just two business days remaining, early estimates suggest that the median growth fund will post an impressive 9.2% for 2017/18, while some of the better-performing funds may deliver as much as 11.5%. Growth funds are those that have 61 to 80% of their investments in growth assets, and they are the ones in which the majority of Australian workers are invested.

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Another good year on the cards for super fund members

19/Jun/2018

With less than two weeks of the financial year remaining, super funds look certain to deliver a ninth straight positive return for their members. The median growth superannuation fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) gained 0.4% in May, taking the return over the eleven months of the financial year to a healthy 8%.

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Lifecycling on the path towards personally-tailored portfolios

29/Jun/2018

Lifecycle products represent an important innovation in superannuation. They allow disengaged MySuper members to invest more like advised members, with an asset allocation that changes to suit their current stage in life. While there are flaws in some of the early models, these products will evolve and ultimately result in better member outcomes.

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Chant West announces award winners

24/May/2018

Sunsuper has taken out three of the 12 Chant West Super Fund Awards including the top award – Super Fund of the Year 2018.

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Super funds on pace for ninth straight positive year

18/May/2018

After a flat March quarter, super funds had a strong April with the median growth superannuation fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) up 1.7%. This brings the return over the first ten months of the financial year to a healthy 7.4%.

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A flat quarter, as diversification smooths out the bumps

18/Apr/2018

Despite two consecutive months of sliding share markets, the median growth superannuation fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) managed to avoid a loss over the March quarter, posting a zero return. The return for the first three quarters of the financial year remains at a solid 5.5%.

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Slight setback in February, but FY18 returns still healthy

19/Mar/2018

After experiencing sharp losses in early February on the back of sliding share markets, the median growth superannuation fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) recovered to finish the month barely in the red, down just 0.2%. Despite the slight setback, the return over the first eight months of the financial year remains at a healthy 6.5%.

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Evaluating investment skills in a changing world

30/Mar/2018

As super funds evolve we need to be clear about what really makes a difference to member outcomes, in other words the benefits that fund members ultimately receive. We have recently updated our ratings methodology to reflect some important developments, especially those that affect how funds invest.

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Chant West awards to recognise member outcomes

19/Mar/2018

Chant West’s sixth annual Super Fund Awards will recognise the best super and pension funds in Australia. The focus of this year’s awards will be on member outcomes, taking the lead from APRA’s new outcomes assessment model.

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Super's roller-coaster start to 2018

19/Feb/2018

After a strong 2017, super funds initially got off to a good start in 2018, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% in growth assets) returning 0.8% in January. This brought the return over the seven months of the financial year to date to a healthy 6.7%. Early February has seen a change of fortunes, however, and sliding share markets have led the median growth fund about 1.1% lower so far this month.

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Chant West Blog

08/Feb/2018

This week's market volatility reinforces super as a long-term investment and the importance of diversification.

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A stellar year for super funds

18/Jan/2018

Against most if not all expectations, 2017 turned out to be a stellar year for super funds. The median growth fund ended up 10.8% – the sixth consecutive positive annual return and well ahead of the funds' own performance targets. AustralianSuper took the top spot with 13.6%, and even the worst performing fund in our growth category delivered a respectable 7.6%. Growth funds have a 61 to 80% allocation to growth assets and are the ones in which most Australians are invested.

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Surprise! 2017 shaping as a vintage year

19/Dec/2017

Australia's major super funds look certain to deliver a sixth consecutive positive calendar year return – and quite possibly in the double digits.  A gain of 1.3% in November has pushed the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) to a cumulative return of 10% for the first 11 months of 2017, so a positive December would make for a vintage year.

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Super funds continue to deliver for members young & old

15/Dec/2017

Super funds have defied the gloomy expectations of a year ago and put in another impressive performance in calendar 2017. At a time when most other forms of saving were offering 3% returns or less – barely above the rate of inflation – the median growth fund returned a remarkable 10.8%.

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Daring to dream of a double digit return for 2017

15/Nov/2017

A surge in October has left super funds in sight of a double digit return for the 2017 calendar year. Following a steady September quarter, strong share markets drove returns higher in October with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) gaining 2.3% for the month. This brings the return over the first ten months of the year to a very healthy 8.6%.

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Superannuation fees just got supersized, but nothing for members to worry about

25/Oct/2017

Chant West's latest fees survey highlights the extent to which the regulator's new disclosure regime will instantly make super look more expensive. Super funds now face a massive test to convince their members – and the wider public – that the increases in their publicly-disclosed fees are more perception than reality.

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World markets drive funds to a steady quarter

18/Oct/2017

Super funds have continued their steady start to the new financial year.  Listed share markets, which are the main drivers of growth fund performance, had a positive September quarter and as a result the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) gained 1.5% over the quarter.

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A slow but steady start to FY18

19/Sep/2017

After eking out a 0.1% return in July, super funds were in positive territory again in August with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) rising 0.6%.  This brings the cumulative return for the first two months of the 2017/18 financial year to 0.7%.

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How good is super? Celebrating 25 years of achievement

11/Sep/2017

On 1 July, compulsory superannuation turned 25. It's an anniversary that Australian workers have good reason to celebrate, because the vision and foresight of the then Labor government and trades union leadership has developed into a world class system that has served fund members exceptionally well. The industry should be underlining that message by presenting a united endorsement of the positives, rather than undermining confidence through the public airing of internal disagreements.

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Super funds mark time in July as share markets cool

17/Aug/2017

After a strong 2016/17 financial year, super funds were flat over the first month of the new year with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) providing a zero return in July.

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Optimistic share markets drive funds to eighth consecutive gain

19/Jul/2017

Super funds have delivered a positive return for the eighth consecutive financial year, with the median growth fund up 10.7% for 2016/17. Among the major funds, double digit returns were common. Hostplus took the top spot with 13.2%, and even the worst performing fund in our growth category delivered a respectable 7.4%. Growth funds are those that have a 61 to 80% allocation to growth assets and are the ones in which most Australians are invested.

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Eighth positive year, and over 100% gain since GFC

29/Jun/2017

Super funds are poised to deliver a positive return for the eighth consecutive financial year, capping off a remarkable 110% rebound since the end of the Global Financial Crisis.  With just two business days remaining, early estimates suggest that the median growth fund will post a very healthy return of 10.5% for 2016/17, while some of the better-performing funds may deliver as much as 12.5%.  Growth funds are those that have 61 to 80% of their investments in growth assets, and they are the ones in which the majority of Australian workers are invested.

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How good is super? Celebrating 25 years of achievement

26/Jun/2017

On 1 July, compulsory superannuation turned 25.  It’s an anniversary that Australian workers have good reason to celebrate, because the vision and foresight of the then Labor government and trades union leadership has developed into a world class system that has served fund members exceptionally well.  The industry should be underlining that message by presenting a united endorsement of the positives, rather than undermining confidence through the public airing of internal disagreements.

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Super funds power on towards the FY17 finish line

19/Jun/2017

With just two weeks of the financial year remaining, super funds are on track to post a remarkably strong annual performance.  The median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) gained another 0.5% in May, taking the return over the eleven months of the financial year to 10.4%.  And with a positive start to June, a double digit return is looking increasingly possible.

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Double digit super returns a live possibility for FY17

17/May/2017

Super funds were again in positive territory in April with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) up 1.5%.  This was the eighth month of positive performance out of the past ten, and the cumulative return for the financial year to date now stands at an impressive 10.1%.

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Another solid quarter for super funds as economic outlook improves

20/Apr/2017

Super funds had a solid March quarter, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) up 2.5%. The previous two quarters were also positive, at 3.1% for the September quarter and 2.5% for the December quarter, so the cumulative return for the first nine months of the 2016/17 financial year is now a healthy 8.5%.

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Super funds survive a late market stumble to eke out a positive return

17/Jan/2019

Super funds weathered a jittery December quarter on world share markets to finish the 2018 calendar year in the black, if only barely. The 0.8% return, while the lowest since 2011, nonetheless extended the run of positive years to seven.

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Chant West awards to recognise the value of advice

21/Feb/2017

On May 24, Chant West will present its fifth annual awards at a black-tie function at the Ivy Ballroom, Sydney. The awards recognise the cream of Australia's superannuation and pension funds.

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Super funds take a breather after heady end to 2016

17/Feb/2017

After a strong finish to 2016, super funds were relatively flat in January with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) down 0.1%. Nevertheless, the return over the seven months of the financial year to date remains healthy at 5.6%.

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Late share surge powers super funds to another positive year

19/Jan/2017

A strong finish to 2016 from Australian and global share markets ensured that super funds delivered a healthy return for the year and a fifth consecutive positive annual return.  The median growth fund returned 7.7% in 2016, and every fund in the growth category delivered a positive result.  Returns ranged between 4.2% and 10.1%, with Catholic Super and Hostplus tied for top spot.  Growth funds are those that have a 61 to 80% allocation to growth assets and are the ones in which most Australians are invested.

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'Trump effect' propels funds towards a positive 2016

19/Dec/2016

After averaging 11% per annum over the past four years, super funds look set to deliver a fifth consecutive positive calendar year return. A gain of 1.1% in November propelled the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) to a cumulative 5% for the first 11 months of 2016. And with share markets continuing to rise in December, the median return for the year currently stands at an estimated 6.3%.

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Super funds give ground in October, but positive year in sight

17/Nov/2016

Following a solid September quarter, super funds retreated in October in the lead-up to the US election, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) down 0.7% for the month. This brought the return for the first ten months of 2016 to 4.1% so, with only six weeks of the year remaining, there is a good chance that funds will deliver a fifth consecutive calendar year return.

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A solid quarter to start FY17, but markets nervous ahead of US interest rate and election decisions

19/Oct/2016

After a tumultuous finish to 2015/16, super funds have got off to a good start in the new financial year.  Over the September quarter, the median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) gained a solid 3.1%.

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Super funds nudge ahead in August

19/Sep/2016

After surging in July, super funds delivered a more modest gain in August with the median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) rising 0.3%.  This brings the cumulative return for the first two months of the 2016/17 financial year to 3%.

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Super funds off to a strong start in FY17

17/Aug/2016

After a tumultuous finish to 2015/16, super funds got off to a strong start in the new financial year with the median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) gaining 2.7% in July.

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Diversified investments help funds post seventh straight gain

19/Jul/2016

Australia's major super funds weathered a late Brexit scare to post their seventh consecutive positive financial year return. The median growth fund returned 3% in 2015/16, while the top-performing fund – QSuper – delivered 7.6%. All funds in the Growth category posted positive returns for the year. Growth funds are those that have 61 to 80% of their investments in growth assets and are the ones in which the majority of Australians are invested.

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Super funds set to post gains despite Brexit vote tremors

30/Jun/2016

As the UK’s decision to leave the European Union reverberates through financial markets, super funds are still poised to finish in positive territory for the 2015/16 financial year.  With just hours remaining, early estimates suggest that the median growth fund will post a small positive return of about 2.5%, while some of the better-performed funds may deliver up to 6%.  Growth funds have 61 to 80% of their investments in growth assets, and are the ones in which the majority of Australians are invested.

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A strong May keeps funds in the black

17/Jun/2016

Super funds have posted a third consecutive positive month, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) gaining 2.3% in May.  That takes the return for the first eleven months of the financial year to 4.0%, raising the prospect of a small positive annual return come the end of June.

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The changing face of super fund investment

06/Mar/2017

Chant West’s annual Awards night will be held later this month, and investment excellence will feature heavily.  While there are other qualities that the best funds need to exhibit, investment is the single most important and it carries the highest weighting (35%) in our fund rating process. 

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When you're winning the game, just let the true numbers tell the story

01/Jun/2016

Superannuation in Australia is fiercely competitive – far more so than the Government and some commentators give it credit for. One enduring rivalry is that between industry funds and retail funds, particularly regarding their investment performance. Unfortunately, while industry funds have delivered superior long-term investment performance, their lobby group, Industry Super Australia (ISA), exaggerates the quantum of this outperformance to the detriment of the industry and consumers.

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Super funds edge closer to another positive year

18/May/2016

After a disappointing start to the year, super funds have posted a second consecutive positive month and are edging closer to a positive financial year result. Following a rise of 1.8% in March, the median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) gained another 1.4% in April. That takes the return over the ten months of the financial year to date to 1.7%.

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A negative March quarter for super funds, but still an even bet on a positive FY16

19/Apr/2016

Super funds were in the red over the March 2016 quarter with the median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) retreating 1.1%. That means the return over the nine months of the financial year to date is only marginally positive at 0.1%.

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Super funds down in February – but it could have been much worse

21/Mar/2016

Super funds lost further ground after a tumultuous February, but a mid-month turnaround in share markets limited the damage. The median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) ended up retreating just 0.4%, bringing the return over the eight months of the financial year to date to -1.6%.

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Super Fund Awards Finalists Announced

07/Mar/2016

The finalists for the Chant West 2016 Super Fund Awards have been announced. The awards span 12 categories, including Super and Pension Funds of the Year.

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How to compare super funds in 7 easy steps

09/Dec/2015

If, like most people, you can choose the super fund your employer contributes to, you need to be able to compare one fund with another. At the very least, it's important to be able to compare the fund you're in now with any alternatives you may want to consider. So how do you compare super funds? To do the job thoroughly, it's a 7 step process.

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AIA Australia & Pillar Administration major sponsors of Chant West Awards event

29/Feb/2016

Chant West is delighted to announce that AIA Australia & Pillar Administration have agreed to be the major sponsors of its 2016 Super Fund Awards evening to be held on Wednesday, 4 May, at the Ivy Ballroom in Sydney.

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Super funds avoid full brunt of share market turmoil

18/Feb/2016

Super funds are off to a disappointing start in 2016 on the back of sharp falls in share markets worldwide. The median growth fund (61 to 80% allocation to growth assets) retreated 2.3% in January, and has continued to slide further into the red in February.

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Chant West awards to recognise the cream of the crop

15/Feb/2016

On May 4, Chant West will present its fourth annual awards at a black-tie function at the Ivy Ballroom, Sydney. The awards recognise the cream of Australia's superannuation and pension funds.

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Super funds defy tepid share markets to post respectable returns

20/Jan/2016

After averaging 12.7% per annum over the three previous years, super funds delivered a fourth consecutive calendar return in 2015 with the median growth fund returning a more modest but respectable 5.8%. The top-performing fund for the year was MTAA, which returned 9.5%. Even the worst-performing fund in the growth category produced a positive return of 1.8% which is still slightly ahead of inflation for the year. Growth funds are those that have 61 to 80% of their investments in growth assets and are the ones in which the majority of Australians are invested.

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Super funds limp towards the line, but still in the black for 2015

17/Dec/2015

After averaging 12.7% per annum over the past three years, super funds look set to deliver a fourth consecutive positive calendar year return – but a much smaller one this year.  Following a loss of 0.3% in November, the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) was up 5.7% for the first 11 months of 2015.  And while the first half of December has been negative, the median return for the year still stands at an estimated 5%.

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Markets oscillate, but funds still on track for a positive 2015

18/Nov/2015

Following an up and down September quarter, super funds bounced back strongly in October with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) up 3.2% for the month. This brought the return for the first ten months of the calendar year to 6.1%, so with only six weeks of 2015 remaining there is a good chance that funds will deliver a fourth consecutive calendar year return.

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Retirement calculators – getting better, but where’s the consistency?

24/Nov/2015

The ultimate purpose of superannuation is to provide an income in retirement, but often that fundamental point is lost. That's hardly surprising, considering that most of the public discussion focuses exclusively on lump sums. To the average member, some of the numbers bandied about sound more like Lotto prizes than real life targets, so no wonder they switch off and fail to engage. One way to change the focus is through online calculators that generate income projections. These are becoming more common, but to be really useful they need to be more comprehensive and more consistent in their design, assumptions and outcomes.

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There's far more to assessing investments than just the numbers

09/Mar/2015

Investment is the single most important aspect of superannuation, so it is only natural that it carries the highest weighting (35%) in our fund rating process. While we take performance numbers into account, there are other factors that we consider far more important in determining whether funds are likely to deliver the best outcomes for their members over time.

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Diversification cushions the blow in disappointing quarter for super funds

19/Oct/2015

A weak September capped off a disappointing quarter for super funds, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) down 1.7% for the first three months of the financial year. However the good news for fund members is that, while listed shares – the main drivers of performance – tumbled more than 6.5%, the broad spread of assets that their funds hold provided a strong measure of protection.

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Chant West awards to recognise the cream of the crop

15/Feb/2016

On May 4, Chant West will present its fourth annual awards at a black-tie function at the Ivy Ballroom, Sydney. The awards recognise the cream of Australia's superannuation and pension funds.

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A low fee diet is no guarantee of healthy returns

16/Dec/2014

A year into the MySuper era, there is no evidence emerging that the latest batch of low fee, passively managed super funds are delivering any additional value for their members. One year is too short a period to form a judgement, of course, but over the medium and longer term the better performing funds have been those that have focused on maximising their net returns, not on minimising their fees.

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Super funds up in July but the outlook is not so rosy

19/Aug/2015

Super funds got off to a good start for the 2015/16 financial year, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) gaining 2.3% for the month of July. This is on the back of an impressive 9.8% return for the year ended 30 June, which was the sixth consecutive positive financial year.

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China jitters drag super funds lower in August

17/Sep/2015

Super funds suffered significant losses in August, with the median growth fund (61 to 80% growth assets) down 2.9% on the back of growing concerns over slowing economic growth in China. The poor performance in August more than outweighed the gains in July, so the overall return for the first two months of the 2015/16 financial year was negative, at -0.6%.

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Chilean Pension System: Relevance for Australia

19/Jan/2015

In the Financial System Inquiry's Interim Report (July 2014), it made considerable reference to the Grattan Institute's report on fees in the Australian superannuation system (Super Sting: April 2014). The Grattan report claims that Australians pay too much for superannuation when compared with other countries, and it recommends we hold a fee-based tender to select one or more funds to be the default fund for compulsory employer contributions for a period of time. This is similar to the approach used in the Chilean pension market.

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Chant West Awards Celebrate Excellence in Super

07/May/2015

The winners of the Chant West 2015 Super Fund Awards were announced at a gala event in Sydney on 6 May, attended by more than 300 guests in attendance including industry luminaries and VIPs.

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At last… a simple way to assess the competitiveness of super fund insurance

24/Sep/2014

Insurance through super is a valuable benefit, but also a significant cost to members. At a time when claims are escalating and premiums are rising, it’s more important than ever to know whether a fund's insurance represents good value. Now, thanks to ground-breaking analysis by Chant West, there's a simple way to do just that.

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