Best US Shares For SMSFs - Top Picks For Maximising Returns In Your Self-Managed Super Fund.

Why Invest In US Shares For Your SMSF - Explore The Opportunities & Benefits

Historically, the US share market has outperformed the Australian market. In the year to May 2025, Australia’s ASX 200 index returned 7.5% (excluding dividends), compared to almost 16% for the US’ NYSE Composite, and close to 30% for the NASDAQ Composite. 

This superior performance is also born out when looking at 5 year returns (ASX 100 approx. 6.7%; NYSE Composite approx. 13.9% and NASDAQ Composite approx. 14.4%).

The strong growth of the US market is supported by a heavy weighting toward high-growth sectors such as technology, healthcare, and consumer goods. This includes some of the most innovative, globally dominant companies, such as Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Nvidia and Alphabet (Google). In contrast, the ASX is dominated by financial and resource stocks, which are more cyclical and slower-growing over time. 

The US economy is the largest in the world, and the US stock market accounts for up to 45% of global market capitalisation. This compares to the ASX being only ~2%. 

In adding US stocks to your SMSF, you stand to benefit by:

Accessing high growth sectors that are underrepresented on the ASX;

Investing in some of the world’s most innovative and dominant companies;

Diversifying across geographic markets, helping provide a buffer if the Australian market is underperforming;

Enhancing the potential for long-term capital gains.

Best US Shares For An SMSF - Expert-Reviewed Stock Picks

How To Choose The Best US Stocks For Your SMSF?

When selecting US shares for your SMSF, it’s important to look beyond the current share price. The following are some of the key metrics to consider when evaluating the past performance and future potential of individual stocks.

Earnings Per Share (EPS)

This represents the entity’s profitability on a per share basis. EPS growth over time is usually a positive sign of business health. 

Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratio + Share Price ÷ Earnings Per Share (EPS). 

This ratio indicates investor sentiment: a higher P/E ratio may suggest that investors expect higher earnings growth in the future, while a lower ratio could indicate the stock is undervalued or that the company is experiencing difficulties. 

Return on Equity (ROE)

This ratio assesses how efficiently the entity is using shareholder equity to generate profit, with a higher ROE suggests stronger profitability.

Dividend Yield 

This shows what proportion of earnings is being paid out to shareholders. Consider past and current dividend yields.

Balance Sheet Strength

A strong balance sheet suggests the ability to invest in growth and survive economic downturns. Consider debt levels, cash reserves, asset quality and liquidity.

It is also important to look at overall sector performance and potential. This can  be affected by macroeconomic conditions, competition, regulation, structural drivers (eg: ageing population), technological advances and consumption trends.

All of these factors should be considered against your own SMSF investment timeline, goals & risk tolerance. For example, a younger person with higher risk tolerance might consider  investing in higher risk higher opportunity sectors, whereas someone closer to retirement age may be looking for stable, blue chip stocks that deliver generous dividend income.

Efficient & Secure Trading In US Shares In An SMSF

Once you’ve determined the best US stocks for your self managed super fund, you’ll need to use a stockbroking service that gives you full access to the US stock market—such as Sharewise. 

Offering both share advisory and stockbroking services,  Sharewise customers benefit from fast onboarding, real-time data, regular market updates and performance tracking. Sharewise simplifies the investment process, while also offering pro-level expertise, with clients having direct access to their own investment manager.

Find out more about how Sharewise can help you add US shares to your SMSF.

Risk Management Techniques For SMSFs Investing In US Shares

While investing in US stocks through a SMSF can be a smart way to diversify and capture global growth, it also comes with some inherent risks, which need to be managed.

Market volatility and economic downturns can impact the value of US stocks, driven by changes to interest rates, inflation, investor sentiment and recessions. Geopolitical events such as conflicts or trade tensions can also cause sudden market shocks. 

Diversification across sectors and asset classes, and balancing growth vs income (dividend yielding) stocks can help mitigate these risks. Investing in defensive sectors like healthcare or consumer staples may also help provide stability during turbulent times, and utilising stop-loss orders can limit potential losses.

Currency fluctuations between the Australian and US dollars may also affect the value of your overseas investments - a rise in the AUD means returns from US stocks fall when converted back to Australian dollars.  Currency-hedged funds can offset exchange rate movements, and maintaining a mix of local and international market investments will help offset currency exposure.