Business
Ninewells Hospital shines as Sri Lanka’s leader in neonatal care on World Prematurity Day
When it comes to neonatal, Paediatric, and family healthcare excellence, Ninewells Hospital stands as the undisputed leader in the space, having consistently demonstrated exceptionally successful care of preterm infants. Accordingly, the hospital is commemorating World Prematurity Day, as it reflects on its journey of transforming neonatal care in Sri Lanka, caring for over 200 preterm babies annually.
Central to its success is Ninewells Hospital’s steadfast commitment to family-centered neonatal care, a scientific, evidence-based approach, that calls for maintaining dignity for all, creating an atmosphere of respect, and providing open information sharing with the family. This unique and modern approach fosters a sense of true partnership between the family of the newborn and the healthcare team at Ninewells Hospital, ensuring that the delivery of care to preterm infants is a collaborative effort, and a supported journey undertaken together. This approach has proven its mettle with a high survival rate, and increased comfort, confidence, and understanding for families of preterm infants.
To further support parents and caregivers, Ninewells Hospital also uniquely arranges knowledge-sharing sessions before discharge from its neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). These sessions, conducted by seasoned healthcare professionals and specialists, cover a spectrum of crucial topics. From a comprehensive update on baby’s health to hands-on training in basic life support and CPR, the aim is to empower parents with essential skills for neonatal care at home. This initiative not only aligns with the hospital’s dedication to family-centered care but also contributes to improving parental confidence during what can be a stressful time.
Commenting on this modern approach and its benefits, Dr. Nalin Gammathige – Neonatal Paediatrician at Ninewells Hospital said, “Having understood the importance of working together with new families for better success rates and improved outcomes across the board, we are now even more determined to continue with our family-centered approach. On this Prematurity Day, where we celebrate the successful management of preterm deliveries around the world, we take this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to our families and the communities we serve. We believe that by equipping parents with the skills needed to care for their babies, who may have arrived earlier than expected, we can ensure the best outcomes for all, and minimize preventable tragedies.”
The hospital’s neonatal care sessions for the families of preterm deliveries cover vital aspects of infant care, including guidance on home care, essential newborn care practices, infection prevention, thermoregulation, feeding techniques, correct medicine administration, sleeping positions, the identification of danger signs, hands-on training in basic life support/CPR/ and how to intervene in the event of an episode of choking.
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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