Business
Aitken Spence records strong performance in EBITDA of Rs. 4.3 Bn with a growth of 111% for 1Q 2024/25
The leading blue-chip conglomerate, Aitken Spence PLC reported an impressive EBITDA (earnings before interest cost, tax, depreciation, and amortization) of Rs. 4.3 billion for the first quarter of 2024/25, a triple digit growth of 111% over that of the first quarter of the previous year.
The Group achieved a steady Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs. 575.8 million in the first quarter of 2024/25, which was a significant turnaround from the loss recorded in the previous year.
The Group’s tourism sector recorded an EBITDA of Rs. 1.7 billion, followed by the Group’s maritime, freight and logistics sector which recorded an EBITDA of Rs. 1.2 billion. The Group’s strategic investments sector demonstrated a stable performance during the quarter whilst the Group’s services sector was slightly hampered by multiple factors.
The Sri Lankan hotels segment and majority of the overseas hotels saw an improvement in occupancy levels which is encouraging. However, the Sri Lankan rupee appreciation during April 2024 had a subdued impact on the Group’s destination management segment. The slight dip in freight rates and the impact of the exchange rate affected the performance of the maritime, freight and logistics sector. The stronger operational performance of the Group’s hydro power companies and the waste to energy power plant together with the recovery of long outstanding dues from the sole off-taker made a positive impact on the Group’s strategic investment sector.
The lower exchange rate on remittances generated in the money transfer business and additional costs incurred in the completion of delayed projects by the elevator segment impacted the Group’s services sector.
During the quarter under review Heritance Kandalama, the celebrated flagship property of Heritance Hotels and Resorts by Aitken Spence Hotels, marked its 30th Anniversary in June 2024. Aitken Spence Hotels was recognised in the Top 5- LMD’s Most Awarded Hall of Fame as leading the hospitality sector. Aitken Spence Travels won the Best Management Practices Award 2024 organised by the Chartered Professional Managers of Sri Lanka (CPM Sri Lanka) in the hospitality and tourism category. Aitken Spence Cargo of the Group’s freight sector secured first place under ‘Shipping & Shipping Related Services Sector’ at the National Business Excellence Awards (NBEA) 2024.
Business
HNB Assurance climbs 13 places on LMD 100 rankings
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) made a significant ascent in the latest LMD 100 rankings climbing 13 places to reach rank 64, cementing its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading listed companies. Throughout the past few years, HNB Assurance has grown stronger, smarter and more united in its purpose, turning challenges into opportunities and refining every aspect of its operations.
The LMD 100 is a prestigious annual ranking that evaluates the financial and strategic performance of publicly listed companies in Sri Lanka. HNB Assurance has consistently climbed the ranks year after year in recent years, reflecting the company’s sustained growth. With 2025 underway, HNB Assurance is planning to leverage its strengths and growth momentum maintained over the past couple of years, as this year represents the penultimate step in its ambitious journey toward achieving the vision of “10% market share by 2026”, a transformative goal that aims to redefine, elevate and position the company as a trailblazer in the industry.
Sharing his thoughts on the company’s new ranking, Lasitha Wimalarathne, Chief Executive Officer of HNB Assurance PLC, stated, “Our upward trajectory in the LMD 100 rankings reflects the collective efforts of our incredible team, the trust our customers have placed in us and our ability to adapt to the dynamic business landscape. At HNB Assurance, we remain committed to strengthening our core business, embracing innovation and delivering sustainable value to all our stakeholders.”
“As we step into 2025, it is inspiring to reflect on our journey so far. By the end of Q3 2024, we achieved growth that was well above the industry average, a remarkable feat we’ve consistently maintained since 2022. This success has been driven by the exceptional efforts of our sales force both from the Advisor Distribution and Partnerships channels, alongside the support of all our teams. I must also add that our vision for ‘10 in 2026’ is not merely a corporate milestone, it embodies our broader aspiration to transform lives, uplift communities and set new benchmarks in the industry. As the countdown to this goal continues, we will maintain our growth, while continuing to stive and create a lasting impact on the lives of our policyholders.” added, Wimalaratne.
Business
Sri Lanka Insurance further Expand its presence to Naiwala
Sri Lanka Insurance further expands its presence in the Upper Western region with the opens its Naiwala Agency Business Development Center (ABDC) on the 12th of December at No.90/6/C, Airport Road, Naiwala junction, Veyangoda.
The occasion was graced by SLIC Life Chief Business Officer Namalee A. Silva, Deputy General Manager – National Sales (Life) Jagath Welgama, Upper Western regional management, Branch Management of Veyangoda representing Life and General categories. Distinguished invitees and customers of the area were also in attendance at the event.
Agency Business Development Centers (ABDC) allows SLIC to further enhance its reach, which provides convenience and speed of service delivery to its loyal customers in relation with their protection needs.
Business
CEAT Kelani Launches high-performance tractor tyre for Maha season
CEAT Kelani Holdings has introduced a new high-performance tractor tyre, the 13.6 – 28 PUDDLE XL TT 12PR, just in time for the harvest phase of the Maha cultivation season. Designed specifically for agricultural use, this innovative cross-ply tyre promises to enhance farming efficiency and tractor operations.
Compatible with leading tractor brands such as Sonalika, TAFE, John Deere, and Mahindra, the tyre features advanced design elements tailored for puddling operations. Its higher non-skid depth (NSD) ensures superior traction in wet and muddy conditions, while wide and angular lugs improve stability and grip. The tyre’s deep and open shoulders allow for effective self-cleaning, and reinforced carcass construction extends its lifespan, offering excellent value for farmers.
This is the sixth tractor tyre variant developed and manufactured locally by CEAT Kelani Holdings, showcasing the company’s dedication to the agriculture sector.
CEAT Kelani Chief Operating Officer Shamal Gunawardene noted that the tyre addresses the unique challenges faced during the harvest period. “It ensures improved performance, durability, and reliability, empowering farmers and operators to achieve better productivity,” he said.
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