Business
First Capital Treasuries PLC lists on the Colombo Stock Exchange
The shares of First Capital Treasuries PLC (CODE: FCT-N-0000) commenced trading on the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) today. The shares have been listed on the Diri Savi Board of the CSE under the “Investment Banking & Brokerage” sector. The occasion was marked with a special Bell Ringing Ceremony.
Representing First Capital Treasuries PLC, Chairman Nishan Fernando, Managing Director Dinesh Schaffter, Director/CEO Dilshan Wirasekara, Directors Ms. Minette Perera, Chandan de Silva joined the event.
The CSE was represented by Chief Executive Officer Rajeeva Bandaranaike, Chief Regulatory Officer Renuke Wijayawardhane and Head of Listings Ms. Vinduni Dullewe at the event.
CEO of the CSE, Rajeeva Bandaranaike, speaking at the ceremony, congratulated First Capital Treasuries PLC on its initiative to go public. “With the history of nearly 40 years First Capital Treasuries has functioned as a pioneer licensed primary dealer appointed by the central bank to deal in government securities and we are happy to see that First Capital Treasuries is now opening its doors to the public, to join their journey of wealth creation.
Commenting of the Performance at the CSE, Bandaranaike added “As we conclude 2021. We are delighted to note, that the CSE has showcased a strong growth trajectory, both in terms of capital raising, as well as price growth and being of immense value to Sri Lankan corporates. As you know Sri Lankan companies are increasingly recognizing the stock exchange as a platform to achieve greater financial freedom, improved access to capital, enhanced global profile, access to liquidity, and also an attractive proposition to tap into the global capital pool.”
Speaking at the event, Chairman of First Capital Treasuries PLC, Nishan Fernando, thanked the CSE, the investor community, staff members of First Capital Treasuries PLC and the media for the support extended during the IPO. Speaking on the listing experience he added, “Taking the company public has been part of our strategic plan for some time now. Listing and trading shares publicly gives a boost to both the brand equity and the trustworthiness of any company. It also gives the company the opportunity to truly understand its perceived value in the market. Then, there are the tax exemptions being offered by the government. Taking all these benefits into consideration, we felt that the time was right for us to invite the general public to be a part of First Capital Treasuries’ growth story.”
First Capital Treasuries PLC is a subsidiary of the Janashakthi Group’s First Capital Holdings PLC.
The total outstanding market liquidity surplus or excess funds available in Sri Lanka’s banking system for lending and transactions declined by Rs. 36.65 billion in a week, according to the Central Bank’s latest economic indicators report.
An economic researcher analysing the data noted: “Treasury bill and bond auctions likely drained liquidity. If this tightening persists, short-term interest rates could rise, raising borrowing costs and potentially slowing economic growth. The situation warrants close monitoring, especially as the manufacturing sector is already facing a slowdown whether due to seasonal or structural factors.”
The report also highlighted the following developments in Sri Lanka’s economy:
Fiscal improvements: The deficit has narrowed but remains elevated.
Sectoral trends: The stock market rallied, and the services sector showed slower expansion (tourism, retail and IT driving resilience).
Total expenditure and net lending increased to Rs. 1,301.9 bn during the three months ending March 2025 compared to Rs. 1,197.5 bn in the corresponding period of 2024.
During the three months ending March 2025, the overall budget deficit decreased to Rs. 234.5 bn compared to Rs. 281.3 bn recorded in the corresponding period of 2024
The rupee value of T-Bills and T-Bonds held by foreign investors decreased by 2 per cent in comparison to the previous week.
“The April 2025 industrial slowdown points to weaker output, likely due to seasonal factors such as holidays or subdued demand. However, this was partially offset by an expansion in the Services PMI, offering some relief. The broader economic outlook for Sri Lanka remains uncertain, as these mixed signals unfold as Sri Lanka would receive a tariff letter from the US in the coming weeks. With market liquidity already tightening due to government borrowings from the banking system, policymakers face mounting challenges in balancing growth and stability,” the economic researcher noted.
By Sanath Nanayakkare
AIA Sri Lanka’s ‘Pawfect Match’ campaign, in partnership with animal welfare groups, inspired 500+ adoptions of stray pets. The initiative highlighted adoption, responsible ownership, and compassion, tackling Sri Lanka’s stray animal crisis. AIA thanks all supporters for their life-changing impact.
The campaign served as a reminder that even small acts of kindness like adopting a stray can make a big impact. It also provided an opportunity for the public to learn more about responsible pet ownership, animal rights, and the importance of compassion toward all creatures.
Calton Sweet House Pvt. Ltd., a key part of Calton Group, was honored as the Best National Industry Brand in the Medium-Scale Food and Beverage Sector at the National Industry Brand Excellence Awards 2024, organized by the Industrial Development Board. Deshamanya Mahesh De Silva, Director of Finance and IT at Calton Group, accepted the award.
Established in 1991, Calton Sweet House has over 30 years of excellence, specializing in cakes, snacks, and frozen bakery items, with 20+ outlets across Negombo, Katunayake, and Colombo, including at Bandaranaike International Airport. The company holds ISO, HACCP, and GMP certifications, ensuring top-quality standards.
Starting as a small store in 1983, Calton Group now employs 300+ staff and operates multiple businesses, including Calton Hyper Market and Calton Catering, while partnering with global brands like Unilever and Upfield. The group remains committed to serving customers with high-quality, safely packaged food products.
Showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara, Puttalam, Nuwara-Eliya and Kandy districts
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