Business

Union Bank shows resilience in a challenging environment

Published

5 years ago

2020/08/3

Union Bank recorded a resilient performance within the first six months of 2020 amidst many challenges triggered by the Covid-19 outbreak in Sri Lanka from March this year.

Commencing from April 2020, the Bank began to immediately roll out the customer financial relief programmes recommended by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) with special focus on affected customers in the Corporate, SME and Retail Banking segments.

Within the review period, the Bank had approved debt moratoria worth Rs. 22.2 Bn under the CBSL recommended debt relief scheme providing extensions for repayment of capital and interest on loans granted. Loan facilities for approximately Rs. 40 Bn were granted with payment extensions for two months. Further, a significant number of affected customers have been granted debt relief schemes outside the CBSL defined criteria, in–line with the Bank’s internal credit policy guidelines. Amongst the schemes that were considered for moratoria are Loans and Leases, Overdrafts, Pawning and Trade Finance facilities. Additionally, non-performing borrowers who had requested for relief schemes have also been provided customised re-schedulements, inclusive of waivers on accrued interest whilst withholding further recovery action.

Union Bank’s core banking activities compressed in the second quarter amidst the country-wide lock-down that prevailed in the month of April up until mid-May.

Amidst the challenging economic landscape, the average prime lending rate (AWPLR) dropped by approximately 250bps and the Treasury Bill rates too showed a declining trend. The Bank implemented a downward revision of interest rates on various lending schemes including credit cards in line with the directives of the Central Bank. Union Bank has also taken measures to provide loans at concessionary rates for Working Capital requirements of SMEs and exporters by participating in the CBSL credit schemes including the Saubhagya Covid-19 Renaissance Facility.

Maintaining healthy liquidity levels within the Bank, and employee and customer safety remained key management priorities while rolling out relief schemes to mitigate the negative impact of Covid-19 on the diverse customer segments of the Bank. Within the period under review from January to June 2020, the average fixed deposits remained stable whereas total average CASA ended at Rs. 21,444 Mn, an increase of 13% over last year. Efforts of maintaining a healthy CASA inflow was supported through focused acquisition strategies driven by retail, corporate and SME banking segments. The CASA ratio of the Bank was 25.8% by end of the reporting period.

Accordingly, Union Bank’s Net Interest Margin declined from 3.4% to 3.2% within the review period. Credit Card late payment fee and other fee waivers issued to customers until September 2020 in-line with the CBSL guidelines aiming to support the customers affected by the pandemic coupled with a decline in economic activity caused a reduction of the overall fee income by about 26% during this period.

The Bank’s Treasury recorded a notable performance with a significant YoY increase of 68% in capital gains. Other Operating Income of the Bank increased on the back of exchange rate deflation by 6% during the said period.

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Business

Government ready to provide necessary support to protect and develop businesses – Prime Minister

Published

13 hours ago

2025/02/23

Priyan

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stated that the government is committed to safeguarding businesses and providing the necessary support for their development.

She made these remarks while addressing the “National Industrial Excellence Awards 2024,” organized by the Industrial Development Board, held on February 21 at the Eagle Lakeside Hotel, Colombo.

During the ceremony, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya presented awards to the three best national industry brands of 2024:

• JBRICKS PVT LTD – Small-scale category
• SINGHE Furniture Manufacturer PVT LTD – Medium-scale category
• EARTHFOAM PVT LTD – Large-scale category

In her address, Prime Minister Amarasuriya commended the resilience and dedication of Sri Lankan entrepreneurs, especially amid challenging economic times. “It is a pleasure to join you at this occasion. Witnessing your commitment to industry during these difficult times is a source of strength for us. The government is dedicated to protecting businesses and providing the necessary support for their development. Your involvement in these industries is crucial for our economic recovery,” she stated.

She further emphasized the importance of inclusive industrial growth, highlighting the significance of women’s entrepreneurship in building economic resilience. “Industries not only strengthen the economy but also generate vital employment opportunities. Despite challenges such as resource constraints, cultural barriers, and gender disparities, you continue to drive progress. We must amplify Sri Lanka’s brand globally. To the award-winning entrepreneurs: this is not the end of your journey but the beginning. Let us work together to rebuild our economy through industry,” the Prime Minister concluded.

Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development, Mr. Sunil Handunnetti, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of promoting Sri Lankan products globally. “Having a brand is vital, but it is even more valuable when it is recognized as Sri Lankan-made. Our goal should be to elevate the rupee to the strength of a dollar,”he remarked. The Minister highlighted initiatives in the recently presented 2025 budget that favor industrial growth, announcing plans for a national tax policy by the end of the year. “We aim to foster an industrial culture from the school level, enhance export revenue, and develop all sectors of industry. We call upon you to join us in this national endeavor,”he urged.

The event was attended by a distinguished gathering, including Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Secretary of the Ministry Ms. Thilaka Jayasundara, and numerous entrepreneurs from diverse sectors, all united in their commitment to drive Sri Lanka’s industrial advancement.

[Prime Minister’s media Division]

Business

HNB Assurance Group achieves strong financial performance in 2024

Published

19 hours ago

2025/02/23

Thilina Walpola

HNB Assurance Group (HNBA and HNBGI) has once again delivered impressive financial results for the year 2024, continuing its remarkable growth trajectory. The Group reported a 21% increase in Gross Written Premium (GWP), rising from Rs. 18.8 billion to Rs. 22.7 billion. Additionally, the Group recorded a consolidated Profit After Tax (PAT) exceeding Rs. 1.8 billion, marking a 7% growth compared to the previous year.

HNBA’s strong financial position was further highlighted by its upgraded Fitch rating, making it the only life insurer in Sri Lanka with an ‘A’ rating. HNBGI also earned an ‘A’ rating, positioning it among Sri Lanka’s leading general insurers.

Commenting on the achievements, Chairman Stuart Chapman expressed pride in the Group’s consistent growth, with a 22% average annual increase in GWP over the past four years. He also noted the 42% growth in share price by the end of 2024, reflecting market trust in HNBA’s stability.

CEO of HNBA, Lasitha Wimalaratne, highlighted significant milestones, including a 7.5% market share and a 27% growth in New Business Premiums. CEO of HNBGI, Sithumina Jayasundara, praised the company’s resilience, reporting a 59% increase in Profit After Tax and exceptional growth in non-motor insurance segments.

Overall, HNBA Group’s performance underscores its strong market presence and commitment to sustainable growth.

Business

Chinese Dragon Café marks first anniversary in Dubai

Published

19 hours ago

2025/02/23

Thilina Walpola

Chinese Dragon Café (CDC), Sri Lanka’s iconic Chinese restaurant chain, celebrates the first anniversary of its Dubai outlet. Established in 1942, CDC has become known for blending Sri Lankan spices with Chinese culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience. The Dubai outlet, which opened in October 2023, is the first international expansion for the brand, representing Sri Lankan Chinese cuisine on the global stage.

CDC’s Managing Director, Udeshi, expressed pride in the warm reception the restaurant has received in Dubai, highlighting the universal appeal of its fusion dishes. The Hot Butter Cuttlefish, Nasi Goreng, and Seafood Fried Rice are some customer favorites. CDC’s Dubai outlet is also available on major delivery platforms, allowing diners to enjoy authentic Sri Lankan Chinese cuisine at home.