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The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has eased access to capital market investments by allowing Asset Management Companies (AMCs) to directly open Sehl Sarmayakari Accounts for resident Pakistanis. The move simplifies onboarding, strengthens financial inclusion, and enables investors to access low-risk mutual funds without relying on banks or branchless agents.
Under the revised regulatory framework, AMCs can now open Sehl Investment Accounts through their own digital platforms or physical forms. Earlier, these accounts were restricted to branchless banking agents, electronic money institutions, and scheduled banks. With this change, AMCs will independently collect customer information, conduct verifications, and ensure compliance with transaction and investment limits set for Sehl Accounts.
SECP confirmed that Sehl Accounts will continue to operate under a simplified Know Your Customer (KYC) and due diligence regime, making them suitable for low-income and first-time investors. “The revised framework maintains regulatory oversight while enabling quicker and easier access to low-risk investment products,” the regulator said.
Investors opening Sehl Accounts will also have the option to upgrade to Sahulat Sarmayakari or full Sarmayakari Accounts once additional documentation requirements are fulfilled. This upgrade allows higher-value investments beyond the limits of Sehl Accounts, offering a gradual pathway into broader capital market participation.
The initiative is aimed at promoting micro-savings and widening access to collective investment schemes, including mutual funds. By allowing AMCs to directly onboard investors, SECP expects improved outreach, reduced friction in account opening, and stronger participation in Pakistan’s capital markets while keeping investor protection intact.
