Business
‘Trailblazing moment’ for New Zealand-SL bilateral economic ties
The landmark announcement of JAT Holdings’ acquisition of Mirotone (NZ) Ltd, New Zealand’s No. 1 industrial wood-coatings company, took place on Nov. 4th at ITC Ratnadipa, drawing leading diplomats, business leaders and industry stakeholders. The event was seen as a “trailblazing moment” for New Zealand- Sri Lanka bilateral economic ties by New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka David Pine.
New Zealand’s High Commissioner Pine, delivering the keynote remarks, went on to describe the acquisition as “a powerful example of responsible foreign investment; strengthening a proud New Zealand brand.”
“What we really want to see a lot more of in New Zealand—just like every other country—is high-quality foreign investment, Pine said. “And just as important is ensuring companies that have done well for decades find responsible new owners, especially after challenging periods.”
He said the acquisition was “preserving and strengthening a New Zealand company that deserved a secure future” and added:
“This is the most significant investment to date by a Sri Lankan company in New Zealand. I hope we will look back on this night—and on you, Aelian, and your team—as trailblazers.”
Aelian Gunawardene, Founder and Managing Director of JAT Holdings, said that throughout his travels across Asia and Australia, one brand consistently stood out—Mirotone, seen as a respected and dominant name in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore and beyond.
“For nine decades, this company led the wood-coating industry in the Asia-Pacific region, he said. “It was a brand I admired, benchmarked and looked up to. Today, to be its custodian feels almost unreal.”
He recalled the intense negotiations—early morning calls, late-night meetings, and the JAT board’s approval of a USD 3 billion allocation to acquire a top-tier international coatings brand.
“This isn’t just about growth, Gunawardene added. “It’s about joining hands with a 90-year-old legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.”
He expressed gratitude to the original founders and said JAT looked forward to celebrating the brand’s 100th anniversary in 2035.
JAT Holdings CEO Nishal Ferdinando walked stakeholders through the strategic transformation the acquisition will unlock over the next 24–30 months.
He emphasised JAT’s groundbreaking R&D capabilities, including South Asia’s first water-based wood-coating binder, developed by only four companies globally.
By Ifham Nizam
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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