Business
CSE turnover hits Rs. 5.52 billion as Expolanka Holdings shines

By Hiran H.Senewiratne
Expolanka Holdings PLC secured exceptionally strong top and bottom line growth during the quarter ended September 30, 2020 (2Q20), largely as a result of a focused and consistent strategy along with the ability to stay agile and optimize opportunities presented in a dynamic operating environment, market analysts said.
The company recorded the highest retail driven intra-day trade of Rs. 1.3 billion at the CSE, with 57.2 million shares traded yesterday. The reason being that second quarter results of Expolanka recorded 646 percent compared to the corresponding year 2019. It is said that the company had recorded Rs. 4.5 billion profit against Rs. 830 million lost in the second quarter, stock market analysts said.
Amid those developments both indices moved upwards. The All Share Price Index went up by 34.41 points and S and P SL20 rose by 12.89 points. The turnover stood at Rs. 5.52 billion with four crossings. Those crossings were reported in United Motors, which crossed 4.5 million shares to the tune of Rs. 151.3 million, its share price traded at Rs. 61, Vallibel One 3.1 million shares crossed for Rs. 80.6 million, its share traded at Rs. 26, CIC 200,000 shares crossed for Rs. 26 million, its shares trading at Rs. 130 and Union Bank two million shares crossed for Rs. 23 million, its shares trading at Rs. 11.50.
In the retail market top five contributors to the CSE turnover were, Expolanka Rs. 1.3 billion (57.2 million shares traded), Royal Ceramic Rs. 241 million (1.53 million shares traded), Hayleys Rs. 218.8 million (498000 shares traded),Lanka Wall Tiles Rs. 217 million (1.78 million shares traded) and Dipped Products Rs. 208.4 million (554,000 shares traded). During the day 225.2 million share volumes changed hands in 38618 transactions.
The CSE showed a remarkable turnaround last week with sharp gains by both indices and heavy turnover with several second and mid-tier stocks gaining aided by impressive earnings.
Last week also saw an average daily turnover of Rs. 3.35 billion, last experienced consistently in early to mid-October. In the previous week, the average was Rs. 1.3 billion.Elated by the performance of the Colombo bourse despite the lockdown, Money, Capital Markets and Public Enterprise Reform State Minister Nivard Cabraal tweeted: “Investor confidence levels are indeed encouraging.’
Sri Lanka rupee was quoted weaker at 184.60/70 to the US dollar in the spot market on Monday, while yields were marginally up in dull market trade, dealers said.
The rupee closed at 184.45/55 to the US dollar on Friday.
Business
Dr Asanka Senanayake named most popular dentist at BWIO Awards

Dr. Asanka Senanayake, founder of Shine Dental Care centres—which provide dental services across multiple locations—was recently honoured as the Most Popular Dental Doctor of the Year at the Business World International Awards 2025.
The awards, organised by the US-based Business World International Organisation (BWIO), recognised outstanding business ventures and professionals across various industries. The ceremony was held recently at the Mount Lavinia Hotel in Colombo.
Business
Another 43 Ceylinco Life sales officers graduate with diplomas in Financial Sales Management

A group of 43 sales officers of Ceylinco Life recently graduated with diplomas in Financial Sales Management, under a programme tailor-made for the life insurance market leader by the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM).
Covering subjects such as Financial Planning, Communication, Analytical Skills Development, Time Management, Financial Markets, and Taxation among others, the bespoke diploma programme was introduced by Ceylinco Life to enhance the skills, knowledge, and competencies of its sales personnel, and to nurture a highly proficient sales force capable of tapping into premier markets and delivering exceptional services to customers.
The nine-month course programme includes contemporary coursework, examinations and assignments to ensure a well-rounded education for the candidates.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Ceylinco Life Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer Samitha Hemachandra said the company had from its inception, placed special emphasis on developing and rewarding professionalism among the members of its sales force. “We led the way in equipping our sales professionals with digital tools, pushed them to obtain professional qualifications from leading international bodies relating to life insurance, to qualify for Million Dollar Round Table membership, and to improve their knowledge in finance,” he said. “As a result, they have earned the respect of the community and their peers, and built stable and lucrative careers with Ceylinco Life.”
SLIM President Prof. Jayantha N. Dewasiri said: “Promoting professional competence as a contributor to the economic growth of our country is one of the objectives of SLIM. In furtherance of this, we provide professional education to thousands of Sri Lankans every year, and are happy to support Ceylinco Life’s efforts to advance the careers of its sales officers though professional development. This is an example to other corporate entities.”
Ceylinco Life’s senior directors Messrs. Devaan Cooray and Palitha Jayawardena, Director/Deputy CEO Ranga Abeynayake, SLIM Vice President – Education & Research Dr Dilhan Sampath Jayatilleke, CEO Chamil Wickremasinghe other distinguished guests attended the graduation ceremony at the Ceylinco Life Auditorium.
Business
ComBank and Senok unveil special offers on construction machinery and equipment

Companies in the construction sector have been provided an opportunity to acquire new equipment through affordable leasing options created via a collaboration between the Commercial Bank of Ceylon and Senok Trade Combine (Pvt) Ltd., which represents global brands in construction machinery and equipment.
A memorandum of understanding signed by the two organisations provides for a series of special benefits to be provided to customers who purchase JCB and Kobelco branded construction equipment from Senok under a customised leasing package provided by Commercial Bank.
The benefits include special prices and lower interest rates, customised payment plans with attractive and affordable rentals, and the first three services at 50, 250 and 500 hours, free of charge.
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