How to invest in mutual funds in Bangladesh
A plain, step-by-step guide to putting your money into an open-end mutual fund, from choosing a fund to setting up a monthly SIP. To compare what real funds actually returned first, use the calculator.
On this page
Before you start
Decide three things: your goal, how long you can stay invested, and how much risk you are comfortable with. Mutual funds are market-linked, so their value moves up and down; the longer your horizon, the more that short-term movement tends to smooth out. A good first step is to compare what real Bangladeshi funds have actually returned over different periods on the ReturnKoto? calculator, then read the plain-language guide if any term is new.
1. Choose a fund
Open-end funds come in a few flavours: income funds (lower risk, steadier), balanced funds (a mix), and growth funds (higher risk, more upside). Several are Shariah-compliant. Compare funds by historical total return, fund size and track record on ReturnKoto?, and open any fund's page to see its verified fees and details before you commit. Browse them all in the funds directory.
2. Open an account with the asset manager
You buy open-end units directly from the asset management company (AMC) or one of its authorised selling agents, in person at their offices and designated bank branches, or online. You fill in a short form with your KYC details (NID, photo, bank account and a nominee). You also need a BO (Beneficiary Owner) account, because fund units are held in dematerialised form with CDBL; you open one through a broker or a bank that offers the service, often online.
3. Choose a SIP or a lump sum
A lump sum invests all your money at once. A monthly SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) invests a fixed amount every month by auto-debit, spreading your entry price over time so you do not have to guess the right moment. ReturnKoto? lets you test both on each fund's real history. See how funds compare with Sanchayapatra, DPS and FDR.
4. Pay and get your units
You can usually pay by cheque, pay order, bank transfer, or mobile money such as bKash or Nagad. Units are issued at the fund's NAV-based sale price, and you receive a confirmation and periodic statements. You can redeem (sell back) units at the repurchase price whenever you like, on the fund's regular schedule.
Minimum investment
Many asset managers let you start a monthly SIP from around ৳1,000, while lump-sum minimums vary by fund. Each fund's stated minimum is shown on its own page in the directory.
Tax rebate
Investing in mutual funds can lower your income tax through the yearly investment rebate. The 2026-27 budget made this more attractive by removing the old ৳5 lakh ceiling that used to cap how much of a mutual fund investment could qualify, so a much larger investment now counts toward the rebate. Tax rules change each year, so see the tax section of the guide and confirm the current figures with the NBR or a tax professional.
Can NRBs invest?
Yes. Non-Resident Bangladeshis can invest in many Bangladeshi open-end mutual funds. Check the individual fund's prospectus for the exact eligibility and process, which may involve an NITA or similar account.
A few tips
Compare funds on real history before you choose, not on marketing. Reinvest dividends to compound your holding. Think in years, not weeks, and match the fund's risk to your horizon. And remember that past performance is context, not a promise.
Common questions
How do I start investing in mutual funds in Bangladesh?
Choose an open-end fund, open an account with the asset management company or its selling agent with your KYC details, and buy units as a lump sum or a monthly SIP. You will also need a BO (Beneficiary Owner) account, since units are held in dematerialised form, and you can pay by cheque, bank transfer or mobile money.
How much money do I need to start?
Many asset managers let you start a monthly SIP from around 1,000 taka. Lump-sum minimums vary by fund and are listed on each fund's page.
Do I need a BO account to buy mutual funds in Bangladesh?
Yes. Open-end fund units are held in dematerialised form, so you need a BO (Beneficiary Owner) account with CDBL, which you open through a broker or a bank that offers the service, often online. You then buy units from the asset manager and they are credited to your BO account.
Is investing in mutual funds tax-deductible in Bangladesh?
Mutual fund investments count toward the yearly income-tax investment rebate. The 2026-27 budget removed the old 5 lakh taka ceiling on how much of a mutual fund investment could qualify. Confirm the current limits with the NBR.