Business
HNB Assurance Finalist at Mob-Ex and The Drum Awards
HNB Assurance has been selected as a finalist in two prestigious international awards: The Mob-Ex Awards and The Drum Awards. The company’s innovative campaigns, “Sinha Rave” and “Dola Duka Delivery,” have earned recognition on a global stage, competing alongside top international brands.
The “Sinha Rave” campaign, shortlisted for the Mob-Ex Awards, was an outcome of HNB Assurance’s adoption of mobile marketing to drive better customer engagement. This campaign demonstrated exceptional creativity and effectiveness in engaging customers through the use of an AR filter. Further this campaign successfully leveraged on the highly talked-about 2023 Cricket World Cup, with the company gaining high brand visibility and customer interaction on social media.
Simultaneously, the “Dola Duka Delivery” campaign was acknowledged by The Drum Awards for its innovative approach and impact. The Drum Awards celebrate excellence in marketing and communications worldwide and being a finalist in this category underlines the success of this campaign which was aimed at fulfilling the cravings of expectant mothers, all across the island.
“We are deeply honored to be finalists in both the Mob-Ex and The Drum Awards. This achievement is truly a testament to the hard work and creativity of our team, who continue to push the boundaries of innovation within the space of marketing communications in the insurance sector. Competing on a global stage with renowned brands and to be the only Sri Lankan Insurance Company recognized, is a significant milestone for us, so, I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate all the teams involved and convey my sincere thanks to all our partners.” said Lasitha Wimalaratne, CEO of HNB Assurance.
“In today’s fast-paced world, staying at the forefront of novel and innovative marketing tactics is absolutely essential. We are extremely proud of these recognitions, as they reaffirm our approach and inspire us to keep identifying and executing new ways of delivering on our communication and marketing objectives while striving to serve as a benchmark to the industry,” said Dinesh Yogaratnam, Chief Marketing and Customer Experience Officer / General Manager of HNB Assurance. “I must take this opportunity to thank the teams of RN Media and Rubiq Creatives for partnering with us and helping bring these campaigns to life. Their expertise and collaboration have been crucial in executing ‘Sinha Rave’ and ‘Dola Duka Delivery.’ As we move forward, we are determined to reach our customers using cutting-edge technology and innovative approaches” added, Yogaratnam.
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.
-
News6 days agoCreditor not yet paid
-
News6 days agoConsumers bearing 22% tax burden despite 18% VAT claim: Dr. Harsha de Silva
-
Features5 days agoNanda Pethiyagoda Wanasundara as three generations of family saw her
-
Features4 days agoSri Lanka developing independent hydrographic capabilities
-
Editorial5 days agoFuel crisis: Beyond price debate
-
Latest News4 days agoSooryavanshi thumps fastest List A fifty as India A win tri-series
-
Opinion3 days agoRanasinghe Premadasa: The man who would not take ‘No’ for an answer
-
Business4 days agoUniversity of West London opens Sri Lanka’s first full UK university branch campus


