29 January 2026
As 2025 drew to a close, global events continued to make the news – from changes in interest rates to political and economic agreements and disagreements between countries. It can all feel a long way from your day-to-day, but these moments do shape how share markets behave, and in turn, how your super performs.
Here’s a look at how GuildSuper options performed, what happened from October through December 2025 to influence investment markets, and what we’re keeping a close eye on as we head into 2026.
How did GuildSuper perform?
The last 3 months of 2025 (October to December) provided small positive returns across all investment options. Over longer timeframes GuildSuper options continued to deliver solid results, with several options delivering returns broadly in line with the market median over longer timeframes.
Your super balance reflects the movements of investment markets, making some quarters better than others. Looking at the long-term performance of your super is important, because super is designed to support you over decades, not months.
For GuildSuper longer-term returns have remained solid across multiple options, even through periods of market uncertainty. This reflects our disciplined investment approach that balances growth opportunities with careful risk management.
MySuper investment performance
MyMix investment performance
What happened in markets?
During the last 3 months of 2025, investment markets delivered mixed results.
Global shares were the standout. Investors became more confident that interest rates in major economies were starting to settle, and enthusiasm around new technologies (particularly artificial intelligence) continued to support good performance in share markets overseas.
Closer to home, Australian shares fell slightly. Higher ongoing inflation meant interest rate policy direction may pivot early in 2026, which put downward pressure on local markets. Defensive assets like bonds also faced some bumps as higher inflation pushed their value down, while cash continued to provide small but steady returns. But overall, the Australian picture wasn’t as rosy as the global one.
Zooming out, 2025 was a strong year for diversified investors. Returns weren’t driven by just one market or region, instead, gains were spread across different asset classes and countries. This highlights the value of a diversified investment approach and maintaining a long-term focus.
How global events affect your super
Your super is invested across many countries, industries and asset types. That means global events, including political and economic developments, can influence short-term market movements.
At the start of 2026, Venezuela has been in the news, with the US carrying out a military operation to capture and remove President Maduro, leading to a change in government leadership. This has increased political tension and, because Venezuela is a major oil-producing country, has created uncertainty about global energy supply. When oil prices change, it can affect the cost of fuel and transport. This can push everyday prices up or down, which influences inflation. Inflation then influences interest rates, which play a big role in how financial markets perform – and therefore how your super performs.
While these situations can increase volatility in the short term, they don’t automatically mean poor outcomes for long-term investors. Our investment team closely monitors geopolitical risks like these and adjusts portfolios where needed, always with your retirement savings in mind.
Looking ahead
We’re living through a period of rapid global change. Economic power is shifting, technology is evolving quickly, and geopolitical tensions can flare up with little warning. That can feel unsettling – especially when headlines are loud.
But history shows that long-term investing (like super) rewards patience, diversification and staying the course. Global growth is still expected to continue, supported by investment in areas like technology, infrastructure and the transition to renewable energy.
At GuildSuper, we remain focused on managing risk thoughtfully and positioning your super to support your future – through the ups and downs.