Below are well-regarded unit trust (mutual fund) providers in Sri Lanka, with a short note on why each is commonly listed among the “best.” Criteria used: size (AUM), track record/performance, range of funds (money‑market, fixed income/gilt, balanced, equity), distribution/reach and reputation. I cite recent local reporting where available.

Top providers (not ranked strictly — choose by your goal and risk tolerance)

1. NDB Wealth (NDB Asset Management / NDB Wealth Management)

• Why: One of the largest asset managers in Sri Lanka with over LKR 100+ billion in total AUM and a large unit trust business; broad fund range (money market, income, balanced, equity) and long track record. (agamya.lk)

2. JB Vantage / JB Wealth Managers (JB Financial Group)

• Why: Strong presence in equity and balanced funds; some JB equity/balanced funds have been highlighted among better-performing equity offerings in recent market upsides. (See local industry performance summaries below.) (hirunews.lk)

3. Asia Securities (Wealth Management / Unit Trust arm)

• Why: Rapid AUM growth recently and placed among the top 5 unit trust managers by end of FY 2024/25; offers money‑market, gilt and dynamic funds that have ranked highly in quarter performance tables. Good for investors seeking actively managed fixed income and gilt exposure. (asiasecurities.lk)

4. CIC Asset Management / CIC Unit Trusts

• Why: CIC’s unit trust schemes have been widely reported as large market-share funds (frequently cited in industry AUM breakdowns). Good for conservative investors seeking money‑market and income options. (Industry summaries often list CIC among largest schemes.) (cytonnreport.com)

5. NDB, HNB, Commercial Bank / Bank‑linked fund houses (examples)

• Why: Several major commercial banks (HNB, Commercial Bank, Sampath, etc.) and their asset‑management arms have popular unit trust offerings — wide distribution network and convenience for bank customers. Check individual fund factsheets for fees and past returns.

Other notable managers to consider

• Senfin / Senkadagala Finance (has had successful balanced/sector funds in recent periods). (hirunews.lk)
• AsiaPacific / boutique fund managers and some newer entrants — some niche funds have outperformed in specific windows; check track records.

Quick guidance on choosing among providers

• Match the fund type to your goal: money‑market for cash parking; gilt/fixed income for lower volatility income; balanced/equity for growth.
• Look at longer-term track record (3–5+ years) rather than a single good year.
• Compare fees (management fees, entry/exit charges), NAV history, portfolio holdings, and liquidity.
• Confirm regulator status and reading: funds are managed under licensed fund managers and public disclosures / fact sheets should be available on each manager’s website.
• Consider distribution convenience (bank branches, online) and minimum investment amounts.

Recent industry context

• The Sri Lankan unit trust industry has grown in 2024–2025 with rising AUM and several equity funds posting strong returns during the market upswing; total industry AUM and top fund performances are reported by the Unit Trust Association and Sri Lankan business press. (hirunews.lk)

If you want, I can:

• Pull up the current top 5 unit trust funds by AUM (with fund‑level links and latest NAVs),
• Compare 3–5 specific funds (returns, fees, risk) side‑by‑side,
• Or recommend funds based on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.

Which would you like next?