FIRST CAPITAL
THE MARKET
First Capital Holdings is a listed full service investment institution in Sri Lanka, operating as a primary dealer, corporate finance advisor, wealth manager and stockbroker, holding the distinction of being the country’s oldest active primary dealer.
As the market grows with rising digital adoption and a broader economic recovery, First Capital plays a catalytic role in enabling access, fostering stability and creating long-term value for all stakeholders.
Anchored by its vision to improve the lives of all Sri Lankans through financial solutions, First Capital expands access to capital markets, promotes financial literacy and champions transparency, environmental, social and governance (ESG) oversight, and digital innovation – building a stronger, inclusive and more informed financial ecosystem.
ACHIEVEMENTS
First Capital made history by winning Brand of the Year in 2024 and securing gold for Best Service Brand at the SLIM Brand Excellence awards – a first for the investment banking sector.
In 2025, the company received the silver award for SLIM Brand Excellence Service Brand of the Year, underscoring its success in elevating financial services into a trusted, people centric brand.
At the TAGS Awards 2024, the company strengthened its leadership by earning gold in the Investment Banking Sector for the second consecutive year.
Its research and asset management capabilities were also recognised at the CFA Society Capital Market Awards 2025, where it earned a silver for Best Equity Research Report and bronze for Best Unit Trust Fund for First Capital Money Market Fund.
A milestone achievement was winning gold at the National ICT Awards – NBQSA 2024 for First Capital Invest, the country’s first WhatsApp based Unit Trust Funds (UTFs) platform designed to make investing simpler and more accessible. A merit award for Fintech Innovation further highlighted the company’s commitment to user-friendly digital solutions.
In 2025, First Capital was honoured at the CMA Excellence in Integrated Reporting Awards, winning Best Integrated Report in Investment Banking Sector and merit award in Integrated Reporting, reaffirming its commitment to transparency.
Alongside being ranked among LMD readers’ Most Loved Brands and Most Awarded entities in 2025, the organisation has been certified as a Great Place To Work®, named a CFA Top 25 Employer and recognised by AICPA & CIMA as a Development Quality Partner.
HISTORY
For over four decades, First Capital has been a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s financial services landscape, driving innovation, resilience and investor confidence. The company traces its origins to 1982, when it opened its doors as one of the country’s earliest money brokers.
In 1992, it was incorporated as CF Venture Fund (CFVF) and two years later, it was listed on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) – this marked the beginning of its journey into broader financial services.
Initially focussed on venture capital, the organisation expanded to provide investment management in 1998, recognising the need to offer structured long-term financial instruments to a wider base of Sri Lankans.
And in 2006/07, it unified its operations under the name First Capital Holdings, marking a new era with a comprehensive suite of financial services delivered through its investee companies.
In 2010, First Capital strengthened its asset management arm by launching unit trust management services; and in 2013, it entered the stockbroking arena through a strategic acquisition, enabling more investors to participate in equity markets.
By 2015, the company had established its core operations across government securities, corporate finance and advisory, asset management and stockbroking – positioning itself as a fully integrated investment institution. The acquisition by Janashakthi in 2018 provided renewed strategic direction and financial strength.
Throughout this journey, the guiding force has remained the same: empowering Sri Lankans through meaningful financial solutions. Every expansion, acquisition and strategic shift has reinforced the organisation’s belief that a strong, transparent and inclusive financial system can improve lives and support national progress.
THE PRODUCT
As a recognised and trusted full service financial institution, First Capital offers a comprehensive suite of investment solutions designed to support diverse financial goals. As a licenced primary dealer appointed by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the company facilitates investments in government securities such as treasury bills and bonds, providing secure and stable options for risk averse investors.
Its corporate debt offerings including debentures and other fixed income securities enable clients to pursue attractive returns while supporting corporate growth.
The organisation’s corporate grade services aid organisations with corporate advisory services backed by innovative solutions in tandem with mergers, sales, acquisitions, leverage buyouts, joint ventures and divestitures.
Through its stockbroking services, investors can participate in equity markets with confidence, supported by research driven insights and expert advisory. Its asset management solutions – including unit trusts and private wealth management – are tailored to meet varying risk appetites and long-term financial objectives.
Complementing these offerings is the company’s dedicated corporate advisory arm, which assists businesses in raising capital, structuring debt and strategic transactions to drive sustainable growth. With a strong research foundation and digital first approach, First Capital ensures that every product is backed by transparency, innovation and disciplined execution, empowering clients to make informed decisions in a dynamic market environment.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
First Capital continues to strengthen its market leadership through strategic developments and technology driven innovations.
On the digital front, the company has enhanced client engagement by introducing AI driven chatbots and text based solutions, along with innovative communication channels such as SMS, WhatsApp and missed call functionalities, now extended to gilt auction bids for greater convenience.
To improve client onboarding, the organisation has undertaken comprehensive reviews of its e-onboarding processes, revamping platforms to deliver seamless experiences. Extensive portal upgrades have also been implemented, particularly within the asset management division, improving usability and client convenience.
And to support scalability and resilience, First Capital has invested in system architecture improvements for enhanced cybersecurity and processing speed, alongside cloud aligned backend enhancements that enable smooth digital migration of business units.
The company also introduced structured client surveys to gather feedback for targeted improvements and began segregating inbound and outbound client service teams, to boost operational efficiency and satisfaction.
Additionally, the organisation has expanded its workforce to strengthen agent assisted onboarding, ensuring personalised and effective client support. Together, these initiatives reflect First Capital’s commitment to innovation, client centricity and operational excellence in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
PROMOTION
In financial year 2025, First Capital strategically leveraged earned, owned and paid media, to disseminate expert commentaries, market insights and thought leadership across mainstream press, digital platforms and industry publications.
Its leadership team featured prominently in televised business discussions and educational initiatives, further reinforcing the organisation’s position as a trusted authority on capital markets.
To deepen customer engagement, First Capital hosted interactive forums such as the Colombo Investor Symposium 2025 and Stock Talk Series, providing accessible and valuable insights into equity market trends.
Beyond financial education, the organisation strengthened its commitment to national development through impactful sports partnerships – serving as Performance Partner for Sri Lanka Rugby in the Asia Rugby Division 1 Tournament, sponsoring CR&FC’s 2023 league win and enabling young athletes to compete internationally at events such as the Singha Thai Junior Golf Tournament. Moreover, First Capital’s contributions to the SwimAmerica Swimming Gala 2025 demonstrate its support for athletic excellence both locally and globally.
Furthering its mission to empower diverse communities, First Capital launched Invest-ED aimed at improving youth financial literacy and #FinPowerHer designed to equip women with tools to gain financial independence – initiatives that reflect the organisation’s role in broader societal upliftment.
In collaboration with Hatch, it hosted First Capital Startup Nation, connecting investors with promising startups and reinforcing its role in advancing innovation.
BRAND VALUES
As a proud member of Janashakthi Group, First Capital is anchored in a values driven culture that defines the organisation’s identity and guides every decision it makes.
The company upholds the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, fairness and unwavering integrity in all its dealings. And it works seamlessly across teams and stakeholders through collaborative approaches that deliver holistic, value driven solutions.
First Capital fosters an inclusive environment where every individual is treated with dignity – and where diverse perspectives are embraced with respect. Its performance driven mindset emphasises excellence, accountability, and measurable results that create long-term value for clients and partners.
The organisation also embraces new ideas, leverages technology and adapts to market dynamics to meet evolving client needs while championing innovation in everything it does.
Collectively, these values strengthen First Capital’s enduring vision: to empower Sri Lankans with financial solutions that uplift lives, build confidence and expand opportunities. By staying true to these principles, the organisation continues to shape a resilient, inclusive and future ready financial ecosystem for the nation.
