In line with a broader, more inclusive approach and in alignment with evolving global standards, the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) announces the launch of the GSS+ Bonds Regulatory Framework, effective March 2025. This marks the first comprehensive regulatory framework in Sri Lanka dedicated to thematic bonds.

Under this initiative, the term “Sustainability Bonds” in the CSE Listing Rules has been replaced with “GSS+ Bonds”, which now encompasses Green, Blue, Social, Sustainability, and other related bond types, including Sustainability-Linked Bonds.

Social Bonds are fixed-income instruments where proceeds are exclusively allocated to finance or refinance projects aimed at addressing social challenges and generating positive social outcomes—such as improved access to essential services, affordable housing, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. The global Social Bond market has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by rising investor interest in fostering inclusive and sustainable development.

In a significant development, the requirements for issuing GSS+ Bonds are now fully aligned with the guidelines of the International Capital Market Association (ICMA). This alignment ensures consistency with globally accepted practices and enhances the credibility and transparency of the sustainable finance instruments listed on the CSE.

The verification framework has also been enhanced. In addition to the previously accepted forms of assurance and impact reporting, issuers may now utilize enhanced methods such as Second Party Opinion and Certification, providing additional layers of investor confidence and credibility.

These rule enhancements were made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Sri Lanka, underscoring the commitment of all stakeholders to elevate Sri Lanka’s sustainable finance landscape to meet international best practices.

The primary objective of this initiative is to enable capital raising for projects with measurable environmental and social impact, while also offering investors the opportunity to align their investment strategies with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

The introduction of GSS+ offers wide-ranging benefits. For issuers, it opens access to a new pool of capital dedicated to funding projects with positive social outcomes. Investors gain an opportunity to diversify their portfolios with instruments that deliver both financial and social returns. At a broader level, the initiative supports responsible capital allocation and contributes to key national development priorities such as poverty alleviation, gender equality, access to healthcare, and inclusive education.

Commenting on the launch, . Rajeeva Bandaranaike, Chief Executive Officer of the Colombo Stock Exchange, stated, “The introduction of GSS+ to the Sri Lankan capital market represents a significant step in our journey towards promoting sustainable finance. This initiative not only expands the suite of sustainable investment products available in the market but also empowers issuers to raise funds for socially impactful projects that can make a lasting difference in our communities.”

“We are proud to support this important development, which reflects our ongoing commitment to align capital market infrastructure with global best practices and to play an active role in Sri Lanka’s sustainable economic growth.”

The CSE remains committed to advancing ESG-aligned initiatives and providing market participants with robust frameworks for sustainability-oriented investments. The introduction of GSS+ Bonds reinforces the CSE’s role in facilitating financial innovation that contributes meaningfully to national and global development goals.

SLT-MOBITEL recently rewarded the lucky customer of its special ‘Roam and Win’ campaign with an all-inclusive tour package to Thailand, as part of its special roaming promotional campaign. The prize giving ceremony was held at the SLT-MOBITEL headquarters, marking a celebration of customer loyalty and appreciation.

The campaign was designed to recognize and reward both prepaid and postpaid customers who activated SLT-MOBITEL roaming plans during their international travels. The grand prize winner was selected through a raffle draw conducted among the pool of eligible customers. The tour package to Thailand included fully paid airfare, hotel accommodation, visa arrangements, guided excursions, and a daily allowance for 2 persons—offering the winners an unforgettable and worry-free experience abroad.

In a landmark move set to redefine the financial services landscape across two continents, LOLC Holdings PLC, Sri Lanka’s largest multi-currency, multi-geographic financial conglomerate, has entered into a strategic partnership with Tomorrow Financial Solutions (TFS) Australia. The agreement, formalized earlier this year, was officially inaugurated on April 03, 2025, at the TFS headquarters in Melbourne, followed by the grand launch held on April 24, 2025, at the opening of the new TFS office at the LOLC premises in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Tomorrow Financial Solutions (TFS) is an Australian financial services firm specializing in mortgage broking, financial planning, commercial lending, and investment strategy. With a focus on client-first, tech-powered experiences, TFS delivers innovative, strategic, and personalized solutions that drive long-term wealth creation.

This alliance represents a significant milestone for both organizations. For TFS, the partnership cements its evolution from a visionary local enterprise into a formidable player on the global financial stage, bolstered by LOLC’s capital investment and international credibility. For LOLC Holdings, this collaboration marks its official foray into the Australian financial market, further reinforcing its global footprint and commitment to providing inclusive financial solutions across new geographies.

“This strategic partnership is more than just an association,” remarked Mr. Pramu Rodrigo, Managing Director/ CEO of TFS, “It is the beginning of a transformative chapter in the Australian financial services sector. Harnessing LOLC’s global expertise, we’re cementing our presence in the Australian market with a bold vision, to set a benchmark in agile, client-focused financial services for a smarter, more connected future.”