Can you Invest your SMSF in Cryptocurrency Using Digital Surge?
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Yes, Digital Surge is an AUSTRAC compliant exchange which can be used by Self Managed Super Funds to invest in Crypto. Although SMSF Australia does not recommend any one exchange we do look to support clients with the exchange of their choice. This information below is provided collaboratively with Digital Surge on how their platform works within the SMSF Environment.
About Digital Surge
Founded in 2017, Digital Surge is an AUSTRAC-registered Australian cryptocurrency exchange offering 400+ tradeable cryptocurrencies. The platform supports SMSF-specific account types and is designed to provide a simple and user-friendly experience for trustees managing cryptocurrency investments within their fund.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 – Set Up Your SMSF
Before looking to sign up to any banks or crypto exchanges you need to establish your SMSF and wait for it to be marked at compliant by the ATO. We assist clients throughout this process including:
- The creation of a corporate trustee
- Creation of an SMSF Deed while has the powers necessary to allow for digital asset investments
- A template investment strategy for clients to work with that includes crypto options
- Setup of your Electronic Service Address so the fund can receive rollovers and contributions
- ATO registrations
Step 2 – Establish a Bank Account for Your SMSF
Once we have setup your new SMSF you will need to open an account with an Australian bank.
- The bank account must be in the SMSF name, not a personal name
- The bank must allow transfers to cryptocurrency exchanges (e.g. via PayID or standard bank transfer)
- Although we do not require clients to use any one bank, we are able to help setup ANZ V2 Plus accounts which have proven to be one of the most crypto friendly accounts available from a major bank
- For more information about the different bank account options available to SMSFs checkout the article below:
Step 3 – Create Your Digital Surge SMSF Account
Once your SMSF is setup and compliant and you have an active bank account then you are ready to sign up to your Crypto exchange. Please see below details of how-to setup with Digital Surge:
- Sign Up
Visit Digital Surge and create a new account using your SMSF email.
- Verify Your Email
Click the link sent to your inbox.
- Choose Account Type
On your dashboard, select SMSF as the account type during verification.
- Upload Required Documentation
Prepare and upload:
- SMSF name, ABN, and registered address
- Full SMSF Trust Deed showing all trustees/members
- Valid photo ID for trustees
- ASIC company extract if a corporate trustee is used
- Submit
After submission, SMSF account verification is usually completed within 1 business day. If you require assistance, the Digital Surge support team is available to guide you through the process.
Step 4 – Fund Your Account and Start Investing
Deposit AUD
Transfer funds from your SMSF bank account to your Digital Surge account using PayID or standard bank transfer. The bank account name must match the SMSF account name.
Purchase Cryptocurrency
Once funds are available in your account, you can use the Buy/Sell section of the platform to acquire cryptocurrency assets for your SMSF.
All transactions are recorded within your Digital Surge account and can be exported for regular reporting purposes including your SMSF financials and tax returns.
SMSF Compliance Considerations
When holding crypto in an SMSF, trustees should ensure compliance with SMSF and ATO requirements, including that:
- The Digital Surge account is in the SMSF’s name
- SMSF crypto is separate from personal crypto holdings
- Crypto assets held align with the fund’s investment strategy
- No prohibited related-party transactions are undertaken
- All holdings and transactions have robust documentation for audit
Reporting and Accountant Access
Digital Surge provides reporting tools designed to assist SMSF trustees, accountants and auditors with year-end compliance and record keeping.
Transaction History and Statements
- Complete transaction history including trades, deposits, withdrawals and fees
- Custom date range exports
- CSV download functionality for audit and tax reporting
- Portfolio balances and historical valuation data
Tax and SMSF Software Integration
- CSV and API integrations compatible with leading crypto tax platforms
- Integration support for Class Super via an API or BGL Simple Fund 360 via third-party tax and reporting providers
Cryptocurrency Storage and Wallets
What Sort of Wallets Will Your SMSF Have?
Your SMSF’s cryptocurrency holdings are stored in Digital Surge custodial exchange wallets under the SMSF account.
Digital Surge uses institutional-grade custody infrastructure, including Fireblocks, to secure digital assets. Fireblocks provides secure digital asset custody technology used by financial institutions globally.
Under this custodial model:
- Digital Surge controls the private keys
- Assets are held on behalf of your SMSF
- Account balances and transaction history are recorded within your SMSF account
Trustees may also withdraw cryptocurrency to an external wallet address for self-custody if required.
Additional Information
Digital Surge provides tools and reporting features designed to assist SMSF trustees, accountants and auditors with managing cryptocurrency investments within a self-managed super fund.
Need help setting up an SMSF of understanding how different investments work? Feel free to reach out to one of our friendly team today!