Business
Asia Asset Finance expands network to 70 locations islandwide in 2022
Sri Lanka’s only gold-focused financial solutions provider, Asia Asset Finance PLC, has expanded its Island wide reach to 70 locations across the country, adding 15 new locations during 2022. The network expansion drive comes as Asia Asset Finance PLC seeks to bring accessible and innovative financial services within reach of all Sri Lankans. With a history spanning 52 years, Asia Asset Finance PLC is backed by its parent company, India-based global financial services giant, Muthoot Finance – one of the world’s largest gold financing companies with assets worth nearly LKR 3 trillion, larger than most commercial banks in Sri Lanka.
In 2022, Asia Asset Finance PLC inaugurated 15 new branches in diverse locations across the island including in Wattegama, Pusellawa, Bogawanthalawa, Grandpass, Kanthale, Potuvil, Welimada, Haputale, Agarapathana, Achchuveli, Cheddikulam, Mattakkuliya, Manipai, Elakanda and Hawaeliya. These locations were strategically chosen as they are hubs for commercial and business activity, while also being home to vibrant populations of Sri Lankans aspiring to achieve their dreams in life. Some are also located at important nexuses on Sri Lanka’s major highways. During 2022, driven by the Company’s expansion efforts, Asia Assent Finance Plc staff community also grew by 20%, along with its asset base exceeding LKR 20 billion, for the first time in the Company’s history.
Discussing the network expansion and other strategic efforts, CEO Rajiv Gunawardena, We believe that crisis and opportunity are two sides of the same coin, and we choose to focus on the opportunities. This is what has driven us and enabled us, supported by our parent company, to continue to create exceptional value for all stakeholders, even amidst the worst economic environment ever witnessed in Sri Lanka. We are one of the few financial institutions to have invested so heavily in branch network, talent expansion, and product development, during 2022, unveiling 15 new branches, expanding our asset base by 22% over 9 months, and introducing innovative products to meet current requirements such as Digital Gold Loans. In 2023, we plan to inaugurate a further 20 new locations across the island and continue to develop our product portfolio, as we seek to position ourselves as the most preferred and innovative provider of gold-focused financial solutions in Sri Lanka.”
Asia Asset Finance PLC is a Non-Banking Financial Institution (NBFI) and a Licensed Finance Company (LFC), registered with the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, having commenced operations in 1970, with a focus on Gold-Based Financial Products and Services, catering to both depositors and borrowers. Asia Asset Finance’s wide array of financial services includes Gold Loans, Fixed Deposits, Mortgages and Digital Financial Services via the Asia Asset Finance App.
Business
Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the following change in S&P Sri Lanka 20 index constituents made by S&P Dow Jones Indices at the 2026 Mid-Year rebalance.
The exclusion and inclusion as announced by S&P Dow Jones Indices, effective from 22nd June 2026 (after the market close of 19th June 2026) are presented below.
The S&P SL 20 index includes the 20 largest companies, by total market capitalization, listed on the CSE that meet minimum size, liquidity and financial viability thresholds. The constituents are weighted by float-adjusted market capitalization, subject to a single stock cap of 15%, which is employed to reduce single stock concentration.
The S&P SL 20 index has been designed in accordance with international practices and standards. All stocks are classified according to the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®), which was co-developed by S&P Dow Jones Indices and MCSI and is widely used by market participants throughout the world.
To be eligible for inclusion, a stock must have a minimum float-adjusted market capitalization of 500 million Sri Lankan rupees (Rs), a six-month median daily value traded of Rs 0.25 million and have positive net income over the 12 months prior to the rebalancing reference date. For information, including the complete methodology, please visit: www.spindices.com
Effective from 22nd June 2026 the stocks in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 in alphabetical order are as above.
Business
Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus
The Teejay Group recorded revenue of LKR 60.04 billion during the period, reflecting a 10% year-on-year decline, primarily due to continued softness in global textile demand. This performance was largely impacted by reciprocal tariffs imposed by the United States, intensified pricing pressures across key markets, and the resulting decline in volumes, all of which collectively weighed on topline growth.
Group Gross Profit declined by 36% year-on-year to LKR 5.02 billion, mainly attributable to lower production volumes, underutilization of plant capacity, sustained pricing pressures, and an unfavorable product mix. Together, these factors adversely affected margin performance amid a challenging operating environment.
The Group reported a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 54.7 million, representing a 98% year-on-year decline. This was primarily driven by higher rupee-denominated costs and non-recurring items, provision for doubtful debts, and restructuring costs associated with right-sizing initiatives.
Ajit Gunewardene, Chairman of the Teejay Group said, “The year was marked by persistent global demand softness and pricing pressures, which impacted results. Despite this, we focused on operational efficiency, cost discipline, and strengthening our financial resilience. These actions position the Group to navigate ongoing uncertainty while remaining committed to long-term value creation for our shareholders.”
Despite these near-term challenges, the Teejay Group continues to maintain a strong financial position, supported by disciplined working capital management and a robust liquidity base. As at 31 March 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at LKR 8.3 billion, while the Group’s net asset base increased by 3% year-on-year to LKR 32.4 billion, reinforcing the resilience of its balance sheet.
Business
Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit
Fairfirst Insurance has once again partnered with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit, continuing its support for the seventh consecutive year. This partnership reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to giving back to the community.
Through this initiative, Fairfirst will provide comprehensive insurance coverage for the highly trained canines attached to the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit. These dogs play a critical role in supporting police operations across the country, assisting with crime detection, narcotics investigations, search and rescue missions, and public safety efforts.
As a company that believes business should create a meaningful impact beyond insurance, Fairfirst remains committed to initiatives that support communities and recognise the vital contributions of those who help keep society safe. This shared commitment to protection and responsibility continues to drive the company’s long-standing partnership with the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit.
Commenting on the continued partnership, Ravishankar Wickneswaran, CEO of Fairfirst Insurance, said, “It is a privilege for us to continue supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit for the seventh consecutive year. These dogs serve the country with incredible discipline and loyalty, often in challenging situations. Supporting their wellbeing is one small way for us to give back, and it reflects the FairfirstWay of standing by those who protect and serve our communities every day.”
Fairfirst looks forward to continuing this partnership and contributing to the wellbeing of the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit in the years ahead.
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