ART, AustralianSuper deliver strong FY26 returns

Australian Retirement Trust (ART) and AustralianSuper have reported solid investment returns, with both funds crediting diversified portfolios and strong global equity markets for the performance despite heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

ART's High Growth accumulation option returned 9.21% for the year to 30 June, while its retirement equivalent delivered 10.25%. over the decade to 30 June, the High Growth accumulation option returned an annualised 10.07%, with the fund noting it is currently the top-performing option in the SuperRatings SR Growth Index over 10 years to 31 May.

ART chief investment officer Ian Patrick said the results reflected the fund's commitment to long-term investing rather than reacting to short-term market movements.

"Over the past decade, we've delivered consistently strong returns for members, reflecting the discipline of our long-term investment strategy," Patrick said.

"We remain focused on diversified strategy that aims to grow our members' retirement savings over time."

Patrick said listed global equities were the strongest contributor during the financial year, while ART continued increasing its exposure to private markets, investing an additional $12 million over the year, including a record $3 billion in Australian real estate.

"Volatility driven by the global external environment is no longer a one-or two- year event, so taking a multiyear investment approach is more important than ever," he said.

Meanwhile, Australia's largest superannuation fund, AustralianSuper, delivered a 9.77% return for its Balanced option and 11.58% for its High Growth option in FY26. The Balanced option has returned an annualised 8.47% over the past decade, while the high growth option has averaged 9.64%.

AustralianSuper chief investment officer Shaun Manuell said active management and portfolio diversification had supported members through another volatile year.

"This is a strong result and a great outcome for members," Manuell said.

"Strong long-term performance is what makes the biggest difference to members in retirement."

Manuell said international and Australian equities remained the strongest-performing asset classes, supported by corporate earnings, continued investment in artificial intelligence and resilient investor sentiment.

"We live in unpredictable times, but volatility can also create opportunities for active investors, and we remain optimistic about the opportunities ahead," he said.