Coinbase heads a new wave of products designed to target Australia’s A$4.3 trillion retirement system, while OKX has teamed up in a push to bring digital currencies to long-term saving. Coinbase and OKX have launched services designed specifically to target self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs), a fast-growing area that already controls around a quarter of the nation’s pension pool.
While traditional funds bring in professionals who invest on behalf of others, SMSFs provide a level of investment control. Such control has provided an entry point to cryptocurrencies that largely remain untouched in traditional pension schemes. Statistical data shows crypto holdings in SMSFs hit A$1.7 billion in March 2025. That’s seven times higher than levels observed in 2021 and shows how rapidly interest has increased despite regulatory caution.
Coinbase is set to roll out a stand-alone SMSF product next after having a waitline of more than 500 investors. OKX, which launched a comparable product in June this year, has seen a continued demand among Australian investors who want to diversify retirement holdings. The two firms help individuals enter the SMSF space by connecting them with accountants and lawyers. This streamlined access lowers the barrier to setting up and managing self-managed super funds.
Coinbase and OKX embracing regulatory scrutiny
Intergenerational divisions are characterizing this era. Crypto-exposure aims to be integrated within mainstream investment funds, in some instances due to younger generation family. Younger Australians who initiate SMSFs at younger ages compared to older cohorts invest large sums in cryptocurrencies.
Coinbase’s survey finds most plan to invest up to A$100,000 in crypto assets. Spillover growth across holdings has raised regulator concerns. Australian Securities and Investments Commission continues to warn crypto is highly volatile and might not be appropriate for retirement system’s aim to achieve long-term savings.
Tax Office continues to highlight SMSFs will be requested to be frugal since they will be requested to be audited distinctly and need frequent admin. Australia’s scenario is not unique in emperiing such concerns. Foreign markets remain highly regulated, and Coinbase and OKX both were fined abroad concerning compliance.
All things considered, the current frenzy suggests Australia could become a testing ground for mainstream crypto adoption. This shift would go beyond its current niche role in retirement planning. It may mark the beginning of broader, real-world crypto integration in the country.
