International and Australian shares each posted solid 13.7% gains. But with the Australian dollar sliding, unhedged international shares returned a remarkable 18.6%. This result highlights the power of a strategic investment approach—and why smart asset allocation matters.

Leading the pack was niche fund legalsuper with a standout 12.9% return, closely followed by Vanguard and Colonial First State. These results weren’t just about riding market waves—they were about informed decisions and active management.

Looking forward, volatility and inflation risks remain on the radar. Industry leaders agree: in a more complex global environment, stock selection and proactive investment strategies will play a critical role.

It's no longer just about broad exposure—it's about being selective, agile, and informed. Whether it's identifying the next big tech performer or managing risk in global markets, successful super funds will be those who think ahead.

While year-to-year gains are encouraging, the real story is long-term performance. Over the past decade, top funds like Hostplus and UniSuper have delivered consistent, above-average returns by combining strong equities with diversified unlisted assets such as infrastructure and private equity.

This underscores what we always champion at Smart Private Wealth: it’s not just about short-term wins, but about building a strategy that supports confident, long-term financial decisions.