On the performance of KiwiSaver funds

Purpose – This paper aims to investigate the risk-adjusted performance of the KiwiSaver Growth funds for the period 2007-2013 in New Zealand. Design/methodology/approach – Performance attribution regressions are used to measure risk-adjusted performance of KiwiSaver funds. Findings – This paper found that there is no evidence of systematic risk-adjusted outperformance of KiwiSaver Growth funds, and in several cases, there is evidence of significant underperformance. This paper further reports substantial variation in the amount of risk-taking, and local and international stock market exposure of KiwiSaver Growth funds. Originality/value – KiwiSaver is becoming an increasingly important investment vehicle for many New Zealanders saving for retirement. This is the first paper that considers the performance of KiwiSaver funds.