155: Super Returns! Australia’s Largest Super Fund’s CIO, Mark Delaney, Describes Their Investment Priorities
Oct 10, 2024
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Mark Delaney, the Chief Investment Officer of AustralianSuper, shares insights from nearly 20 years at Australia's largest super fund. He discusses the evolution of Australia’s pension industry and how consolidation has benefited pensioners. Mark highlights the importance of active management over passive strategies, emphasizing infrastructure as the 'ballast in the boat.' He also explores global equities, private equity preferences, and his unique approach to commodity exposure, all while humorously noting how even markets can't distract him while surfing!
The AustralianSuper fund's consolidation of smaller pension plans has led to enhanced operational capabilities and superior investment outcomes for members.
Mark Delaney advocates for an active asset allocation strategy that adjusts based on market conditions, emphasizing long-term investment over short-term market timing.
Deep dives
Australia's Superannuation System
Australia's superannuation system has evolved significantly since its inception in the 1980s, currently mandating a contribution of 12% of salaries into pension accounts. This system aims to alleviate the burden on the government-funded old age pension and improve retirement standards for individuals, resulting in a pooled retirement savings of over AUD 340 billion for 3.4 million Australians. The success of this model has shifted Australia's economic position from a historical capital importer to a capital exporter, with pension plans investing more abroad. This transformation illustrates how collective retirement savings can positively impact both individuals' financial security and the broader economy.
Competition and Scale in Pension Plans
The introduction of competition in Australia’s pension landscape has driven the consolidation of smaller pension plans into larger entities like Australian Super, which exclusively serves its members. This shift towards larger, more competitive funds enhances operational capabilities and retains skilled professionals, ultimately leading to superior investment outcomes. In contrast, the fragmented pension market in the UK faces challenges that could be alleviated through similar competitive dynamics, which would support the consolidation of pension pools. The emphasis on scaling pensions allows for enhanced resource allocation, enabling funds to utilize more sophisticated investment strategies.
Investment Strategy and Market Timing
Mark Delaney's investment strategy emphasizes active asset allocation, moving away from traditional benchmarks based on evolving market conditions and value opportunities. This approach involves adjusting asset allocations based on economic forecasts and current valuations, an effort to capitalize on cyclical market trends. The ability to act decisively during market fluctuations, like purchasing undervalued stocks during downturns, demonstrates a disciplined investment philosophy amidst uncertainty. Recognizing the difficulty of timing the market, the strategy promotes a consistent, long-term view rather than relying solely on market hype or trends.
Cultural Aspects of Fund Management
The culture within Australian Super prioritizes a mission-driven approach, focusing on maximizing retirement outcomes for members rather than generating shareholder profits. Emphasis on humility, collaboration, and a sense of responsibility creates an environment conducive to attracting and retaining talent in a competitive industry. By fostering strong team dynamics and valuing every individual's contribution, the organization enhances its overall performance and investment decision-making process. This cultural foundation not only underpins operational success but also encourages a positive and resilient work environment that can withstand market pressures.
AustralianSuper, Australia’s largest super fund, manages approximately USD $230bn for 3.4m members. Mark Delaney has been at its helm as CIO for almost 20 years.
Mark describes the goals, the organisation and its investment principles. He explains why Australia consolidated its pension industry and the benefits it has reaped for pensioners and the economy.
He discusses approaching global equities, why infrastructure is the “ballast in the boat”, his favourable view of private equity and why he likes active over passive.
He also covers how he accesses commodity exposure, and why you can’t worry about the markets when he’s on his surfboard trying to catch a wave!