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US Federal Reserve interest rate hike speculation hits stock market

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By Hiran H.Senewiratne

The ripple and negative effects on the CSE from ongoing tensions between the US and Russia over the Ukraine issue and the speculation in the international media that the US Federal Reserve is to adjust interest rates, negatively impacted the global stock market yesterday, stock market analysts said.

The stock market dipped sharply on the previous day led by big cap counters due to investor concerns on macroeconomic issues but was able to maintain a healthy turnover level. Therefore, with the negative trend continuing in the market, apart from macro issues, the month- end profit- takings put the market into red territory, analysts said.

Amid those developments both indices moved downwards. The All Share Price Index went down by 144.4 points and S and P SL20 declined by 48 points. Turnover stood at Rs 5.3 billion with a single crossing. The crossing was reported in Expolanka, which crossed 100,000 shares to the tune of Rs 37.6 million; its share price was Rs 376.

In the retail market top seven companies that mainly contributed to the turnover were, Expolanka Rs 1.01 billion (2.7 million shares traded), Softlogic Life Insurance Rs 556 million (3.9 million shares traded), Browns Investments Rs 376 million (22.9 million shares traded), Access Engineering Rs 308 million (nine million shares traded), Royal Ceramic Rs 227 million (2.9 million shares traded), LOLC Rs 222 million (174,000 shares traded) and LOLC Finance Rs 168 million (6.3 million shares traded). During the day 160.3 million share volumes changed hands in 41347 transactions.

During the day without any apparent reason Softlogic Life Insurance share prices appreciated by 11.5 per cent or Rs 11.75. Its share price shot up to Rs 145.25 from Rs 130.50. Hela Clothing shares have been oversubscribed 5.2 times.

It said high net worth and institutional investor participation was noted in Hemas Holdings, Vallibel One and Ceylon Cold Stores. Mixed interest was observed in Expolanka Holdings, Softlogic Life Insurance and Kelani Valley Plantations, while retail interest was noted in Industrial Asphalts, Browns Investments and Softlogic Capital.

The Capital Goods sector was the second highest contributor to the market turnover. Expolanka Holdings and Softlogic Life Insurance were also included among the top turnover contributors. The share price of Expolanka Holdings decreased by Rs. 13.50 (3.41 per cent) to close at Rs. 382.25.

Yesterday, the US dollar was quoted at Rs 201.58, which was the Central Bank controlled price. The actual price would be more than Rs 250.



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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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