Business

Local bourse hugs bearishness in contrast to moderately ticking global market

Published

3 months ago

2025/03/18

By Hiran H.Senewiratne

CSE trading indicated some bearishness yesterday, while the global stock market, particularly that in Asia, did moderately well. The main reason being that investor sentiment was moving away due to a lack of proper direction in the local economy, market analysts said.

The ASPI was at a standstill, although some slight volatility persisted, as the market began on a positive note before the trend reversed, reporting a marginal decline, market sources said.

Amid those developments both indices moved downwards. The All Share Price Index went down by 199.88 points while S and P SL20 declined by 66.4 points. Turnover stood at Rs 1.2 billion with six crossings.

Those crossings were reported by Sampath Bank, which crossed 496,000 shares to the tune of Rs 58.9 million; its shares traded at Rs 118.75, Access Engineering 700,000 shares crossed for Rs 25.7 million; its shares traded at Rs 38.1, Hayelys 191,000 shares crossed for Rs 25.9 million; its shares traded at Rs 135.50, Singer Finance 1 million shares crossed for Rs 24.2 million; its shares sold at Rs 23.5, Ambeon Capital 669,000 shares crossed for Rs 20.4 million; its shares sold at Rs 50.50.

In the retail market, the top six companies that contributed to the turnover were; Browns Investments Rs 76.9 million (10.1 million shares traded), JKH Rs 73.7 million (3.6 million shares traded), Hayleys Rs 70.8 million (523,000 shares traded), Lankem Development Rs 64.5 million (3.8 million shares traded), Sampath Bank Rs 55.7 million (458,000 shares traded) and Lanka IOC Rs 53.7 million (429,000 shares traded). During the day 54.7 million share volumes changed hands in 14000 transactions.

It is said that the banking and manufacturing sectors were active throughout the day despite the low market performance. The services sector also performed well.

Yesterday, the US dollar buying rate was Rs 292.54, while the selling rate was Rs 300.95. Overall inflation was minus 4.20.

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Business

Yamaha roars back into Sri Lanka with stylish relaunch and ‘Built to Ride ‘campaign

Published

4 hours ago

2025/06/16

Thilina Walpola

Associated Motorways (AMW), Yamaha’s exclusive Sri Lankan distributor for over 75 years, celebrated the brand’s grand return after a five-year hiatus due to import restrictions. Marking the occasion, AMW hosted a groundbreaking fashion-themed launch event on 14th June 2025 at Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo, unveiling a new lineup of fuel-efficient motorcycles and scooters, including the standout Yamaha RayZR 125 (71km/l).

Beyond specs, Yamaha’s “Built to Ride” campaign highlights the passion and resilience of Sri Lankan riders, focusing on emotion over mechanics. Andre Bonthuys, AMW’s Group Managing Director, emphasized Yamaha’s commitment to redefining the riding experience. Backed by AMW’s service excellence and global “Kando” philosophy, Yamaha’s return promises to revitalize Sri Lanka’s two-wheeler market with performance, innovation, and style.

Business

Pelwatte Dairy launches landmark pension scheme for Sri Lankan dairy farmers

Published

4 hours ago

2025/06/16

Thilina Walpola

In a historic move that redefines rural financial security, Pelwatte Dairy Industries has announced the launch of Sri Lanka’s first pension scheme for dairy farmers, reinforcing its commitment to both national self-sufficiency and the welfare of the farming community.

Pelwatte Dairy, one of Sri Lanka’s foremost homegrown dairy brands, has long been a pillar in the push to replace imported dairy with locally produced milk, saving the nation billions in foreign exchange. Milk powder production is expected to increase by 80% upon completion of the new Kurunegala processing facility, supporting local demand and opening up new export opportunities.

This landmark pension initiative will benefit over 30,000 registered dairy farmers working with Pelwatte. Designed to offer financial stability post-retirement, the scheme ensures these vital contributors to Sri Lanka’s food security can live out their later years with dignity and peace of mind. Additional benefits will support health, education, and safety for the farmers’ families setting a new standard for agricultural welfare in the region.

“This is a defining milestone not just for Pelwatte, but for the entire Sri Lankan dairy sector,” said Ariyasheela Wickramanayake, Chairman of Pelwatte Dairy. “It is our corporate responsibility to safeguard those who work tirelessly to feed the nation.”

Akmal Wickramanayake, Managing Director, added: “We see this as more than a welfare initiative. It’s an investment in rural development, sustainable agriculture, and national economic resilience.”

Business

CEEDECS wins Best National Industry Brand award

Published

4 hours ago

2025/06/16

Thilina Walpola

Managing Director Janaka Mahanama

CEEDECS Lanka Holdings Pvt. Ltd., a leading Sri Lankan construction firm, has been honored with the Best National Industry Brand Award in the Mining and Allied Industry Sector (Medium Scale) at the National Industry Brand Excellence Awards, organized by the Industrial Development Board. The award recognizes their eco-friendly brand, Harithaweli Ready Mix, which offers sustainable alternatives to traditional sand-based construction materials.

Founded in 1999 and based in Mahara, Kadawatha, CEEDECS has over 20 years of expertise in construction, consultancy, and design. Harithaweli’s products—including Ready-Mix Plaster, Waterproof Solutions, and Tile Adhesives—are durable, affordable, and environmentally friendly, gaining popularity among builders and contractors.

With 21 showrooms nationwide and multiple quality certifications, CEEDECS continues to expand its reach.