Superannuation Portfolio Holdings Disclosure Regulations strike the right balance

The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) considers the Superannuation Portfolio Holdings Disclosure regulations made today will achieve greater transparency for consumers whilst recognising the potential effect on investment outcomes.

“ASFA supports the objective of increased transparency of superannuation for consumers, however, we have long advocated that it was important that this be done in the best interests of fund members,” said ASFA CEO, Dr Martin Fahy.

“The regulations released today enhance transparency to consumers while recognising the importance of investment considerations around disclosure, to ensure that Australian super funds continue to be able to deliver great investment returns for their members.”

Significantly, the regulations provide for the disclosure of unlisted assets and some disclosure of derivatives to be aggregated for each type of asset.

“ASFA has advocated that the holding valuation of unlisted assets should be disclosed as a range or bundled with similar assets, and we are pleased to see the Government has recognised this. This will help ensure that Australian super funds can continue to compete on an even footing in global institutional investment markets,” concluded Dr Fahy.

For further information, please contact:
Jacqui Maddock, 0451 949 300.

About ASFA
ASFA is the peak policy, research and advocacy body for Australia’s superannuation industry. It is a not-for-profit, sector-neutral, and non-party political, national organisation. ASFA’s mission is to continuously improve the superannuation system, so all Australians can enjoy a comfortable and dignified retirement.