Series 9/10: Key Insights for Australian Investors in 2025

Australian investors are always seeking new opportunities to diversify their portfolios, and in 2025, Series 9/10 investments have come sharply into focus. With regulatory shifts and a changing economic climate, understanding these financial products is critical for making informed investment decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting to build your portfolio, here’s what you need to know about Series 9/10 in the current market.

What Are Series 9/10 Investments?

Series 9/10 typically refers to a class of structured investment products that offer exposure to a basket of assets, often with defined risk and return profiles. These products are designed to suit investors seeking a balance between risk management and potential upside, and are commonly offered by banks or investment houses.

• Series 9: Usually features fixed income components with capital protection mechanisms.
• Series 10: Often includes higher-growth assets, such as equities or property-linked returns, with a moderate risk buffer.

Unlike traditional term deposits or direct shares, Series 9/10 products blend elements of both, making them an attractive option for those wanting diversification without excessive risk exposure.

2025 Regulatory Updates and Market Trends

This year, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) rolled out enhanced disclosure requirements for structured products, including Series 9/10. Key changes include:

• Clearer product disclosure statements (PDS): Issuers must now provide detailed risk scenarios and performance simulations.
• Stricter suitability assessments: Advisors are required to assess investor knowledge and experience before recommending Series 9/10 products.
• Reporting standards: Ongoing reporting to investors has been standardised for greater transparency.

These reforms aim to safeguard retail investors from unsuitable or overly complex products, while still allowing access to innovative investment solutions. According to the 2025 Investment Trends Report, demand for structured products like Series 9/10 has increased by 18% year-on-year, reflecting growing appetite for non-traditional income streams amid volatile global markets.

How Series 9/10 Fits Into Your Portfolio

With inflationary pressures persisting and the RBA maintaining a cautious stance on rate cuts, investors are rethinking their approach to fixed income and growth assets. Here’s how Series 9/10 could complement your strategy:

• Diversification: Exposure to multiple asset classes within a single product.
• Capital protection: Series 9 options often guarantee a minimum return, appealing to conservative investors.
• Growth potential: Series 10 may capture upside from equities or property markets, suitable for those with moderate risk tolerance.
• Liquidity considerations: Most Series 9/10 investments have fixed maturity dates, so they suit medium-term goals rather than immediate liquidity needs.

For example, a retiree seeking to preserve capital but outpace inflation might allocate 20% of their portfolio to Series 9, while a younger investor with a higher risk appetite could consider Series 10 for a portion of their growth allocation.

Real-World Example: Series 9/10 in Action

In early 2025, a major Australian bank launched a Series 10 product linked to a diversified basket of ASX 200 shares and commercial property trusts. The product offered a 6% annual coupon with partial capital protection, and a potential bonus if the underlying assets outperformed a predetermined benchmark. Within three months, the offer was oversubscribed, underlining strong investor demand for innovative structures that bridge the gap between fixed income and equities.

Key Considerations Before Investing

• Understand the product’s risk-return profile and how it aligns with your financial goals.
• Review the issuer’s credit rating and track record.
• Assess fees, early exit penalties, and tax implications—structured products can have unique tax treatments under Australian law.
• Consult with a qualified adviser to ensure suitability, especially given the new ASIC suitability rules in 2025.