Australians continue to be the world leaders in managed funds, according to research released by the Australian Financial Group (AFG).

The AFG Global Funds Management Index showed that Australians had invested an average of $70,385 per person in managed funds in 2007, compared to $47,124 for the United States, the next highest managed funds investment.

The third, fourth, and fifth places for average figures were taken by France ($37,266), Canada ($25,753), and Sweden ($25,559).

The dealer principal of AFG Financial Planning, Ross Nayler, said that the compulsory 9 per cent employment super contribution was the reason behind the figures.

“With employment remaining strong and 9 per cent of salaries being invested in managed funds each month, the low dollar-cost averaging effect on superannuation savings will be tremendous when we take a five-year view,” he said.

From December 2006 to December 2007, per capita funds in Australia grew by 38 per cent, from $50,753 to $70,385. Canada came next, with 26 per cent growth.

AFG research noted that this was an indication of the robust strength of the Australian economy, and Australians are best placed to weather a market storm.