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Hostplus Eyes Crypto Offerings for Self-Directed Pension Accounts
Hostplus, one of Australia’s largest pension funds managing over A$150 billion ($105 billion), is exploring the addition of cryptocurrency exposure through its self-directed Choiceplus option, according to Bloomberg on March 23, 2026.
Chief Investment Officer Sam Sicilia told Bloomberg that digital asset offerings could be available as early as the next financial year, subject to regulatory approval and internal design work. The fund is reviewing consumer protections, product structure, and a broader range of assets, including Bitcoin and potentially tokenized exposures such as music rights.
Growing Member Demand
Hostplus serves nearly 2 million members, with an average age in the mid-to-late 30s. Sicilia noted increasing member inquiries: “There’s certainly a demand from some of our members who write in and say ‘why can’t I have access to cryptocurrency?’”
This marks a shift from Hostplus’s earlier cautious stance nearly a decade ago, reflecting the maturation of the crypto market.
Limited Crypto Adoption in Australian Pensions
Australia’s pension industry has so far shown limited interest in crypto. In 2024, AMP Ltd. took a cautious step by gaining indirect exposure through Bitcoin futures. Hostplus’s potential move would represent a more direct approach via self-directed accounts, which currently make up about 1% of the fund’s total assets.
Contrast with U.S. Developments
The move comes as the U.S. expands crypto’s role in retirement savings. In August 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order permitting 401(k) plans to include crypto. Indiana recently passed legislation allowing crypto allocations in certain state retirement plans.
What This Means for Investors
If approved, Hostplus members could gain access to Bitcoin and other digital assets within their superannuation accounts, potentially increasing mainstream adoption in Australia. However, the offering remains subject to regulatory hurdles and internal reviews focused on consumer protection.
The development highlights growing institutional interest in crypto despite ongoing volatility and regulatory considerations.
