HESTA returns 10.18% to members

HESTA's MySuper Balanced Growth option has delivered 10.18% for the 2024/25 financial year, with the fund crediting the performance of listed equities and prudent management of market volatility for the result.

The outcome represents the third consecutive year of annual returns above 9% for the MySuper Balanced Growth option.

Over 10 years to 30 June 2025, the fund's default investment option - where most members are invested - has averaged an annual return of 7.64% and ranked in the top quartile over five, seven and 10 years.

Among other super investment options, Indexed Balanced Growth, High Growth and Sustainable Growth achieved very strong annual returns of 12.01%, 12%, and 11.06%, respectively.

HESTA's Retirement Income Stream Balanced Growth achieved a return of 11.81% and Retirement Income Stream Conservative yielding 8.45%.

HESTA chief investment officer Sonya Sawtell-Rickson said the fund's investment team was on the lookout for opportunities to continue to drive performance and build the retirement savings for members over the long-term.

"We started the year with a cautious stance, and our robust liquidity management and stress testing allowed us to take advantage of long-term buying opportunities during the periods of market volatility," Sawtell-Rickson said.

Sawtell-Rickson added policy announcements in the US and conflict in the Middle East had impacted markets in recent months, with management of these risks remaining a focus.

"While volatility has eased after a surge in March and April, geopolitical events remain an important consideration as we head into the new financial year," she said.

"Our expectation is that global economic growth will likely be slower, though the response of several central banks has helped temper recession fears. Further rate reductions are expected over the year ahead, including here in Australia, which should provide additional support to the economy and households."

HESTA chief executive Debby Blakey said the financial results were great news for the fund's members.

"We are very pleased to report another strong performance for our members, particularly given the more volatile and uncertain period in global markets over the past six months," Blakey said.

"The consistency of our returns over the long run can make a significant difference to our members, helping improve their retirement readiness.

"It was also great to see our income stream options perform well for the financial year, with the positive returns helping retired members maintain their savings as they draw an income stream and enjoy the retirement they deserve."