When it comes to building a self-managed super fund (SMSF) portfolio, investors typically prioritise business quality and the ability to generate reliable returns across many market cycles.
Balance sheets, competitive positions, and long-term relevance tend to matter more than short-term momentum.
With that in mind, here are three ASX 200 shares I'd be comfortable holding inside an SMSF for the long haul.
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Goodman Group (ASX: GMG)
The first ASX 200 share I would be comfortable holding in an SMSF is Goodman Group.
Goodman has evolved well beyond a traditional property trust. It focuses on high-quality industrial property, logistics facilities, and data centres in major global cities. And it often develops these assets in partnership with long-term capital providers, as we saw here with CPP Investments.
This model allows Goodman to recycle capital, fund growth without excessive balance sheet risk, and maintain exposure to structural tailwinds such as ecommerce, supply chain optimisation, and digital infrastructure. For an SMSF, that combination of asset backing and growth optionality is attractive.
Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG)
Another ASX 200 share that could suit an SMSF is Macquarie Group.
It operates a diversified global financial services business, with earnings generated across asset management, infrastructure, commodities, and advisory activities. This diversity is very attractive for SMSF investors as it helps smooth results across economic cycles and reduces reliance on any single revenue stream.
What makes Macquarie particularly attractive for long-term investors is its capital discipline. The group has a strong track record of investing alongside clients, managing risk conservatively, and returning surplus capital to shareholders when appropriate.
For an SMSF, Macquarie offers exposure to global financial markets without needing to constantly trade or reposition. This arguably makes it a solid candidate for a buy and hold approach.
Woolworths Group Ltd (ASX: WOW)
A final ASX 200 share I'd be comfortable owning in an SMSF is supermarket giant Woolworths Group.
It operates in a part of the economy that rarely disappears from household budgets. Food, groceries, and everyday essentials tend to see consistent demand regardless of economic conditions, which helps underpin revenue stability.
Beyond its supermarket dominance, Woolworths continues to refine its operations through digital channels, loyalty programs, and supply chain improvements. These initiatives are protecting margins and its market share.
Overall, for an SMSF, Woolworths offers a blend of defensive characteristics and steady cash generation. These are qualities that can be valuable when building a portfolio that is designed to last through to retirement.
