The Diversification and Performance of Self-Managed Superannuation Funds

In this article we examine the diversification and performance of a small preliminary sample of Australian self-managed superannuation (retirement) funds (SMSFs). Using the single index model and traditional (risk-adjusted) performance measures within the context set by modern portfolio theory we find that the SMSFs in our sample exhibit considerable under-diversification. In addition, we find that the SMSFs do not appear to be benefiting from even naive diversification and, unsurprisingly, perform poorly on a risk-adjusted basis vis-à-vis the unmanaged S&P/ASX300 index. This empirical investigation contributes to economists' understanding of the microeconomic structure of this increasingly important component of Australia's retirement income stream. Copyright 2007 Bank of England.