Here’s the simple 5-step version for Sri Lanka:
Step 1: Pick a fund company
Go with one that has online signup + low minimum.
Good beginner options: NDB Wealth, CAL, JB Vantage, First Capital.
Step 2: Open an account online
Takes 15 mins. You’ll need:
1. NIC photo
2. Address proof – Bank statement or utility bill
3. Bank account details – To send money in/out
Just visit their website → “Invest Now” → Upload docs.
Step 3: Choose your fund type
| Fund to pick | |
| Your goalEmergemcy cash, 1 year | Money Market Fund |
| Emergemcy cash, 1 year | Income Fund |
| 5+ year wealth building | Balanced Fund or Equity Fund |
If confused: Start with a Balanced Fund. 50% stocks + 50% bonds.
Step 4: Transfer your first investment
Minimum is usually 1,000 to 5,000 LKR.
Do a bank transfer to their account. Your units get allocated in 1-2 days.
Step 5: Set up monthly SIP
This is the cheat code. Set a standing order from your bank.
Example: 5,000 LKR every 1st to your unit trust. Automate it and forget it.
Fees to expect
1. Buying fee: 0% to 1% – many are 0% online now
2. Yearly fee: ∼1.5-2% taken from returns automatically
3. Selling early: 0% if you hold >6-12 months
