Super funds posted 9% returns this year — but the tailwinds are reversing

Affects every Australian with superannuation — that is, essentially every employed person and retiree. Strong past returns don’t protect future balances from rising rates and oil-driven market volatility.

In a nutshell: The median growth super fund is estimated to have returned approximately 9.2% over the 12 months to June 2026, according to Chant West research. However, analysts and SBS warn the run is unlikely to continue: oil prices are surging on Middle East conflict, the RBA is now expected to hike a fourth time this year, and equity markets are exposed to a potential US-Iran escalation that could shock global asset prices.