What the news headlines mean for your super

9 March 2026

From political tension and trade disputes in the United States to conflict in the Middle East, there’s a lot happening in the world right now. 

When major global events unfold, it can lead to sudden ups and downs in financial markets, that often flow on to super balances. 

If recent headlines have left you feeling concerned, you’re not alone. Remember, while market movements can feel unsettling, super is designed to be a long-term investment.  

Let’s look at what’s happening and what it could mean for your super. 

Why does the US have such a big impact on economics? 

The United States is still the largest economy in the world and makes up a significant portion of global share markets. 

That means decisions made in the US – around trade, government spending, interest rates or foreign policy – can flow through to markets in Australia and beyond. 

Right now, investors are keeping an eye on: 

• Ongoing political division and civil unrest in parts of the US 

• Shifts in trade and tariff policies 

• US government debt levels 

• Interest rate decisions by the US Federal Reserve 

• The conflict occurring in the Middle East, which can affect global energy prices and inflation 

When several of these factors happen at once, markets can become more volatile. And while volatility can feel unsettling, it’s not unusual. 

Markets don’t like uncertainty. But uncertainty itself isn’t new. 

Bumps are part of investing 

Over the past 20 years, markets have experienced: 

• The Global Financial Crisis 

• The Covid-19 pandemic 

• Major geopolitical conflicts 

• Trade wars and sharp spikes in inflation 

Each time, markets experienced sharp falls. And each time, over the long term, diversified investors saw markets recover. 

That doesn’t mean downturns are comfortable. They aren’t. 

But super is designed to be a long-term investment. For most GuildSuper members, retirement is still many years away. That long time horizon is one of your biggest advantages. 

Short-term events – even dramatic ones – don’t automatically lead to long-term losses. 

How this affects your super 

Because super funds invest across global markets, including the US, movements overseas can influence returns here in Australia. 

In the short term, global instability can: 

• Increase share market volatility 

• Move bond prices 

• Shift currency values (like the Australian dollar) 

• Lead to temporary declines in account balances 

But your super isn’t invested in just one country, one company or one event. 

GuildSuper's investment options are diversified across different asset classes (like shares, bonds and property) and across different regions. That diversification is designed to help manage risk and reduce the impact of any single market shock. 

We also actively monitor markets and adjust portfolios when needed. While no fund is immune to ups and downs, careful portfolio construction plays an important role in navigating uncertain periods. 

Should you be worried about exposure to the US? 

It’s understandable to feel uneasy when headlines focus on unrest or conflict involving major economies. 

The US is home to thousands of companies across many industries, and it remains a key part of the global financial system. Investing globally – including in the US – is part of building a diversified portfolio. 

Importantly, super funds don’t make decisions based on short-term political cycles. Investment strategies are built around long-term objectives, risk management and helping members grow their retirement savings over time. 

What should you do? 

For most members, the answer is: stay focused on the long term. 

History shows that reacting to short-term market movements – for example, switching investment options during a downturn – can lock in losses and make it harder to benefit from a recovery. 

If you’re feeling unsure, it can help to: 

• Check that your investment option matches your long-term goals and comfort with risk 

• Remember that super is a long-term investment 

• Speak to a GuildSuper Coach if you need personal advice or just have questions 

And if you haven’t checked your balance in a while? It’s okay. Super is built to weather different market conditions over time. 

A steady approach in uncertain times 

Global events can be confronting. Political tension, conflict and economic uncertainty affect real communities and real families. But when it comes to your super, our role is to stay disciplined. 

Markets will rise and fall. They always have. What matters most is having a long-term plan, staying diversified and avoiding decisions driven by short-term headlines.  

Your super is invested with your retirement in mind – not just this year’s news cycle.