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Budget is at variance with IMF claim plunges bourse into negativity

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By Hiran H.Senewiratne

Allegations in some sections of the media that the 2024 budget is not on par with IMF targets, plunged some share market investors into a degree of pessimism yesterday, market analysts said.

Apart from that, these sections pointed out that Zambia, which also has a debt burden similar to that of Sri Lanka, had successfully concluded its negotiations. They reported that there is a clear absence of equal treatment for debt burden countries, market analysts said. Accordingly, Investors remain cautious ahead of the IMF second tranche announcement, analysts added.

Amid those developments both indices moved downward. All Share Price Index went down by 43.8 points and S and P SL20 declined by 5.98 points. Turnover stood at Rs 579 million with two crossings.

Those crossings were reported in Melstacope, which crossed 950,000 shares to the tune of Rs 73.6 million; its shares traded at Rs 77.50 and Sampath Bank 1 million shares crossed to the tune of Rs 67 million.

In the retail market top seven companies that mainly contributed to the turnover were; Sampath Bank Rs 65.4 million (976,000 shares traded), Expolanka Holdings Rs 47.5 million (468,000 shares traded), HNB Rs 27.7 million (167,000 shares traded), Colombo Fort Lanka Rs 25.8 million (952,000 shares traded), Commercial Bank Rs 25.6 million (300,000 shares traded), NTB Rs 13.8 million (137,000 shares traded) and Melsacope Rs 13 million (168,000 shares traded). During the day 19.82 million share volumes changed hands in 6000 transactions.

Meanwhile, Cargills Bank had obtained approval from the CSE to go for an Initial Public Offering (IPO) to raise Rs 62.5 million and its share price would be Rs 8. IPO will begins on December 14. The purpose of the IPO is to focus on major expansions and other development activities.

Yesterday, the rupee opened at Rs 328.50/90 to the US dollar, from Rs 328.60/80 on the previous day, dealers said. Bond yields were stable.

A bond maturing on 01.06.2025 was quoted stable at 13.80/14.10 percent. A bond maturing on 01.08.2026 was quoted at 14.20/35 percent from 14.20/40 percent. A bond maturing on 15.01.2027 was quoted at 14.30.40 percent from 14.35/45 percent. A bond maturing on 01.07.2028 was quoted stable at 14.55/65 percent.



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Constituent Change in the S&P Sri Lanka 20 Index

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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.

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Teejay Group navigates industry headwinds with financial strength and strategic focus

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Teejay Lanka Chairman Ajit Gunewardene and CEO Pubudu De Silva

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.

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Fairfirst celebrates 7 years of supporting the Sri Lanka Police K9 Unit

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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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