There are changes aplenty in the superannuation space at present, but some things have stayed the same.

One of which is that there are still multiple benefits to running your own super fund, regardless of any changes to the general super landscape.

In fact, more and more Australians are opting to take control of their superannuation and setting up self-managed super funds (SMSFs) but before embarking on an SMSF get specific advice to ensure it is right for you.

And there are many reasons why they’re doing so.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits, shall we?

An SMSF allows a trustee to consolidate the super assets of up to four members (usually family members or business partners) into one larger pool of funds, which increases investment opportunities.   
SMSFs can provide flexibility with more investment options. Trustees can invest directly in shares, high-yielding cash accounts, term deposits, income investments, direct property, unlisted assets, international markets, collectables and more.
Tax effectiveness: Like all super funds, SMSFs benefit from concessional tax rates. In the accumulation phase, tax on investment income is capped at 15 per cent; in the pension phase, there is no tax payable, not even Capital Gains Tax. Carefully considered tax strategies can help trustees grow their super savings and reduce tax payments as they transition to retirement.
SMSFs allow greater flexibility for multiple members to run a mixture of accumulation and pension accounts. Trustees can adjust their investment mix as it suits them, allowing for a fast response to changes in market conditions, super rules or personal circumstances.
The cost of administration could be reduced using an SMSF. While SMSF trustees must lodge an annual tax return and audit, and pay ATO fees, these costs are based on the time to prepare and not based on a percentage of your super balance. This means the more an SMSF grows, the more cost-effective it becomes.  
Increased transparency and control. You’re in control of your SMSF’s meaning you can chose where and how you invest and you will have a better understanding where your money is invested, with complete visibility over performance and tax treatment.
You can increase the size of your nest egg through leverage.
You can purchase residential property with debt.
You may be able to influence the valuation of properties in your fund through cosmetic renovations and improvements using cash within the SMSF.
SMSFs can borrow to purchase your business premises. It’s important to understand that an SMSF member can’t live in a residential property owned by their SMSF. An SMSF can purchase a business property from a member (and the member can still use it), but it can’t purchase residential property from a member.
Estate planning: Having an SMSF provides the flexibility to plan who receives the member’s death benefits, when they receive it and how they receive it, such as a pension or lump sum.

It’s an enlightening insight to learn that there are nearly 600,000 SMSF’s in Australia.

So that’s a lot of people in Australia who understand the benefits of controlling their superannuation.

It’s no secret, however, that the superannuation landscape can be complex.

That’s why many SMSFs access professional guidance before they establish their own super fund as well as during its duration.

So if you’re wondering whether a SMSF is the right investment vehicle for you, consider speaking to Metropole Wealth Advisory so we can help you understand all of the benefits mentioned above, as well as many more.

Why not contact us to discuss your individual needs & let Ken Raiss, director of Metropole Wealth Advisory, formulate a Strategic Wealth Plan for you, your family or your business.

Please complete click here now and set up a time for a chat

Disclaimer

The article is general information only and is intended as educational material. Metropole Wealth Advisory nor its associated or related entitles, directors, officers or employees intend this material to be advice either actual or implied. You should not act on any of the above without first seeking specific advice taking into account your circumstances and objectives. 

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