SMSF sector growth being led by younger members, women
The latest ATO quarterly SMSF statistics show the sector continues to grow, led by younger members and women.
The data shows that establishments in the March 2024 quarter were 7,371 up from 6,618 in 12 months from the March 2023 figures. The total number of SMSFs was 616.400 compared to 596,370 and the total number of members increased in 12 months from 1,136,532 to 1,148,481.
The number of wind-ups continues to fall with only 272 in the latest quarter compared to 510 in the December 2023 quarter and 1,470 in March 2023.
Men make up 53 per cent of SMSF members while women account for 47 per cent, however, women between the ages of 35-44 made up the majority of new establishments at 38.7 per cent compared to men in the same age bracket at 34.5 per cent.
The average income of members in newly established funds was between $100,000 to $150,000 (23.7 per cent), highlighting the trend towards establishments made by younger people on middle incomes.
Around 87 per cent of SMSF members are 45 years and over, with the highest number of members sitting in the 75 to 84 years age bracket (15.1 per cent) followed by the 60 to 64 years at 12.7 per cent and 35 to 44 years at 10.3 per cent.
There were more female SMSF members in every age bracket except for those 75+.
The total estimated assets of SMSFs is $932.9 billion compared to $856.7 million in March 2023. The top asset types held by value are listed shares (29 per cent of total estimated SMSF assets) and cash and term deposits (16 per cent).
In value, listed shares accounted for were valued at $54.2 million compared to $48.5 million in the March 2023 quarter, listed shares were $270.7 million and LRBAs accounted for $63.1 million.
The amount invested in non-residential property rose from $82.4 million to $92 million.