Hopes for US-Iran ceasefire drive super returns recovery

Yasmine Raso

Senior Journalist

11 May 2026

Hopes for a resolution to the US-Iran conflict have managed to placate markets and by extension superannuation fund returns, as they spent April recovering some of the losses recorded in March according to the latest from super research house, SuperRatings.

The research house has put forward its estimation that the median balanced option returned 2.6 per cent over the month of April, following an announcement earlier in the month of a ceasefire – however “uneasy”, making back much of the -3.2 per cent loss seen in March.

The median growth option also gained an estimated 3.1 per cent in April, while the median capital stable option returned 1.3 per cent.

“Global markets ended April retracing much of the March losses,” Kirby Rappell, Director of SuperRatings, said.

“The volatility reflects the world in which we are living, with markets hopeful for a sustained solution. However, the situation remains fluid, and its true impact on global inflation and supply chains is still unfolding.

“The Reserve Bank’s decision this week to lift the cash rate by 25 basis points underscores that inflationary pressures persist.

“For superannuation fund members, it remains a case of staying focused on long-term objectives and trying your best to block out the shorter-term noise.”

Rappell also noted that recent market conditions and outcomes – such as April’s recovery following so soon after March’s drop – have emphasised the importance of members keeping in mind that superannuation is a long-term investment.

He warned members that letting panicked reactions to market volatility drive investment choices when it comes to super may actually put them at a disadvantage on the path to retirement.

“To date, markets seem to be responding strongly to positive news, underscoring the risks that can be associated with switching to cash or other defensive assets in response to periods of negative returns,” Rappell said.

“Members who switch their investment to more defensive options struggle to time their re-entry which can often lead to missing out on the rebound.

“Despite market volatility being likely to persist, and inflation remaining an ongoing concern, super is designed to be a long-term investment.

“Members should consider reaching out to their fund or a trusted financial advisor to get professional financial advice before proceeding with any change in their investment strategy.”