We've all learnt the meaning of the term "market volatility" during the past couple of months. With days of record losses and record gains on share markets around the world, it's hard to keep up.

As most super funds invest in shares, there is no doubt the impact on global financial markets affects super earnings.

We're experiencing an extended period of market volatility and financial experts are saying when the markets do recover, it will take time for them to stabilise.

Investing for your future is a long-term strategy. Reacting to the recent downturn by selling off investments is short-term thinking that could consolidate your losses. History shows us that negative periods are part of the normal market cycle and that markets always recover, often to higher levels.

So it's a matter of sitting tight and waiting for the markets to stabilise. And in the meantime, there's the opportunity to get more involved with your super.

1. A super finding - new search option

2. Member Investment Choice options update

3. AMP market commentary

4. Women and super

5. Negative returns: the dark side of investments

6. New look for SuperNews

1. A SUPER FINDING - NEW SEARCH OPTION

To help you navigate around the RBF website more easily, we've introduced a search option. You'll find the search option at the bottom left corner of your screen. Enjoy!

2. MEMBER INVESTMENT CHOICE OPTIONS UPDATE

The Member Investment Choice(MIC) option web pages have been updated on the RBF website to reflect the 14 options' investment profiles, objectives and current crediting rates. It's now easier for you to compare the options against one another so that you can select an MIC option or a combination of these options that suit your long-term goals and risk tolerance.

3. AMP MARKET COMMENTARY

During these volatile times we know you want more information on financial markets. So we've arranged for commentary from AMP Capital Investors to be available on the RBF website.

Oliver's Insights is written by Dr Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP Capitol Investors, on issues and trends affecting the economy and financial markets. Dr Oliver has recently provided an interesting article - The continuing roller-coaster ride in financial markets.

4. WOMEN AND SUPER

Did you know that Australian women retire on approximately half the super of men? The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) reported that average retirement payouts in 2006 were $136,000 for men and $63,000 for women. That is simply not enough to live on in retirement.

But all is not lost. There is support available so that you can equip yourself with some financial knowledge.

Women, married and single, young and old, can take an active role in planning for their retirement. Read our super tips to find out how...

5. NEGATIVE RETURNS: THE DARK SIDE OF INVESTMENTS

We ran this article in a previous SuperNews and received positive feedback from members saying it was really useful. The information is still relevant and the message remains important, so we think its worthwhile revisiting.

The Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) provides interesting articles on their financial tips and safety checks website known as FIDO.

This article discusses negative returns and explains how often to expect them depending on your investment strategy. FIDO says people invest because they expect to make money and goes on to say that negative returns are always a risk that you have to reckon with. Read on...

6. NEW LOOK FOR SUPERNEWS

SuperNews is going for a new look!

SuperNews has a lot to offer you, and we know the current layout doesn't present the valuable information in an easy-to-read format. In the new year you can expect a more professional and appealing newsletter. It's all about giving you a better service.

Now is the perfect time to give your feedback to help us make the right changes. Please email super@rbf.com.au with your suggestions.

SuperNews is an e-bulletin from the Retirement Benefits Fund, 39 Sandy Bay Road, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia 7000.

WE'D LIKE YOUR FEEDBACK

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Please email us at super@rbf.com.au and give us your feedback. (Please do not reply to this email.)

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This email service is linked to your registration on www.rbf.com.au. It is available to anyone who registers on the RBF website.

RBF will send you an email to complete the registration process. Once registered, login then select Subscriptions and elect to receive SuperNews.