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Coinbase and OKX Launch Crypto Services for Australian Pension Funds
Coinbase and OKX are launching specialized services targeting Australia’s massive $2.8 trillion retirement savings system, marking a significant shift toward mainstream crypto adoption in pension funds.
Trump’s Crypto Policy Sparks Global Movement
The timing aligns with international policy changes, particularly President Donald Trump’s recent executive order permitting cryptocurrency investments in US 401(k) retirement plans. This regulatory momentum is now spreading to Australia’s superannuation sector.
Self-Managed Super Funds Lead the Charge
Australia’s compulsory Self-Managed Superannuation Funds (SMSFs) represent one of the world’s largest retirement systems, valued at $2.7 trillion as of September 2024—doubling from $1.2 trillion a decade ago. Deloitte projects this figure will reach $11.2 trillion by 2043.
IFM Investors chair Cath Bowtell emphasized the system’s scale, noting that “$3.2 billion flows into the super system each week, requiring constant investment opportunities.”
While traditional super funds invest in infrastructure like toll roads and ports, liquidity challenges are pushing managers toward diversification, with crypto emerging as a viable alternative asset class.
Exchange Giants Target Crypto-Ready Pensions
SMSFs, which allow individual retirement investment management, have become early crypto adopters. The Australian Tax Office reports they hold $1.1 billion in digital assets—a sevenfold increase since 2021, representing 25% of total pension assets.
Coinbase is preparing a dedicated SMSF service with over 500 investors on its waiting list. John O’Loghlen, Asia-Pacific managing director, revealed that 80% of applicants plan new SMSF creation, with 77% expecting to allocate up to $67,000 in digital assets.
OKX launched its SMSF product in June 2025, with Australian CEO Kate Cooper reporting demand exceeded expectations. The platform connects investors with accountants and legal advisors to streamline SMSF creation.
Regulatory Warnings Persist
Despite growing interest, ASIC continues warning about crypto’s volatility, while AUSTRAC has intensified enforcement actions against non-compliant platforms, including ordering Binance to appoint external auditors over money laundering concerns.
