ATO Says SMSF Crypto Holdings May Be Down 4% YoY Despite Bitcoin Gains; Exec Says Data Could Be Undercounted

• ATO reports A$3.02B in SMSF crypto holdings (June 2025)

• June 2025 figures are ~4% below June 2024 but ~41% above June 2023 after valuation adjustments.

• Bitcoin price rose sharply over the period, and exchanges are preparing SMSF services for retirement savers.

SMSF crypto holdings Australia: A$3.02B in June 2025, down 4% y/y but likely understated — read how funds and exchanges are preparing for retirement crypto adoption.

What are SMSF crypto holdings in Australia and how did they change in 2025?

SMSF crypto holdings in Australia refer to digital‑asset investments held within Self‑Managed Super Funds. The Australian Taxation Office reported A$3.02 billion in SMSF crypto holdings at June 30, 2025, down from A$3.12 billion at June 30, 2024, after consistent valuation adjustments.

Why does the ATO data likely understate actual SMSF crypto holdings?

The ATO figures are extracted from tax return filings as of June 30 each year and are adjusted for consistent valuation. Industry experts note that tax returns for the 2025 financial year are not due until May 2026, so late filings and reporting timing can produce lower snapshot totals.

Simon Ho, head of SMSF strategy at Coinstash, said the reported number is likely “undercooked” because it does not capture post‑reporting reconciliations and late submissions.

Key comparative data (ATO):

How are demographics and market trends shaping SMSF crypto adoption?

SMSFs are dominated by older members: 96.7% of SMSF members are aged over 35, with the largest share in the 75–84 age bracket (13.7%). At the same time, younger Australians show high crypto ownership—data from Australian exchanges indicates 53% ownership among 25–34 year olds—suggesting future growth in SMSF crypto allocations as these cohorts age.

How are exchanges and the industry preparing for SMSF demand?

Major exchanges are developing SMSF‑focused services to support retirement accounts and custody requirements. Reports indicate firms are introducing products and compliance tooling aimed at trustees and advisers managing digital assets within superannuation structures.

Industry groups are urging the Australian government to prioritise clear digital asset legislation to support institutional‑grade services and protect retirement savers.

What does global retirement crypto adoption look like?

Internationally, retirement plans are increasingly open to crypto exposure. Surveys show a meaningful share of retirement‑age savers are receptive to crypto for potential returns. Policymakers in some jurisdictions are enabling retirement plan inclusion of digital assets, which could influence Australian policy and adoption.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much crypto did Australian SMSFs hold in June 2025?

ATO data shows Australian SMSFs held A$3.02 billion in crypto at June 30, 2025, a decline from A$3.12 billion at June 30, 2024, after consistent valuations were applied.

Will SMSF crypto holdings rise as younger Australians age?

Yes. Higher crypto ownership among 25–34 year olds suggests SMSF crypto allocations could increase over the next decade as these cohorts begin managing retirement savings directly.

Key Takeaways

• ATO snapshot: A$3.02B in SMSF crypto holdings at June 2025, down ~4% y/y after valuation adjustments.
• Timing matters: Reported totals may understate true holdings due to late tax filings and reconciliation.
• Future growth likely: Younger high‑ownership cohorts and exchange readiness point to rising SMSF crypto adoption.

Conclusion

SMSF crypto holdings in Australia show both short‑term fluctuation and clear longer‑term growth. While the ATO snapshot reports a slight year‑on‑year decline to A$3.02 billion, demographic trends and exchange readiness indicate potential for increased crypto allocations within retirement funds. Monitor regulatory updates and trustee guidance as the market and policy evolve.