Category: Daily Financial Times

Bank of Ceylon (BOC) has once again been recognised as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand 2026 by Brand Finance Lanka, reaffirming its position as the country’s most valuable brand. With a brand value of Rs. 65.5 billion, reflecting a 14.1% year-on-year growth, this prestigious recognition highlights the enduring confidence, trust and loyalty that generations of Sri Lankans continue to place in Bank of Ceylon.

Further strengthening this achievement, Bank of Ceylon’s Brand Strength Rating has been upgraded to AAA, reflecting the Bank’s strong brand equity, customer relationships, market leadership and consistent ability to deliver value through innovation, responsible banking and meaningful engagement with society.

Brand Finance Lanka, a subsidiary of Brand Finance UK, the world’s leading independent brand valuation and strategy consultancy, evaluates leading brands annually through a comprehensive methodology built on three core pillars: Brand Investment, Brand Equity and Brand Performance. The rankings are supported by detailed financial analysis and independent consumer research, providing a transparent and evidence-based assessment of brand value, strength and reputation.

Being recognised as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand is a result of far more than financial performance alone. Bank of Ceylon’s success is driven by its strategic focus on customer engagement, impactful brand communication, exceptional service delivery, digital transformation, corporate social responsibility, sustainability initiatives and its ability to continuously strengthen public confidence. Through these efforts, BOC has created a powerful connection with Sri Lankans across generations while continuing to contribute to national development.

This achievement further strengthens the Bank’s remarkable 87-year legacy, during which it has continuously evolved to meet changing customer expectations while remaining committed to serving the nation. Having supported Sri Lankans from every segment of society, including indigenous communities, across generations, BOC continues to represent stability, resilience, progress and inclusive growth, making it Sri Lanka’s most admired and valuable brand.

Further reinforcing its growing international reputation, Bank of Ceylon made history by becoming the only Sri Lankan bank to be ranked among the World’s Top 500 Banking Brands 2026. This global recognition places BOC alongside some of the world’s most respected financial institutions, reflecting the Bank’s strategic vision, resilience and expanding international brand presence.

The strength of the BOC brand is supported by its outstanding financial performance and significant contribution to the national economy. For the financial year 2025, the Bank contributed Rs. 77 billion in taxes, reaffirming its position as the largest corporate taxpayer in Sri Lanka, while recording a Profit Before Tax of Rs. 120.8 billion. These achievements demonstrate the Bank’s financial strength, operational excellence and continued contribution to Sri Lanka’s economic progress.

Bank of Ceylon continues to drive the future of banking through innovation, accessibility and sustainable growth. The launch of BOC Flex, the Bank’s flagship digital banking platform, has transformed customer banking experiences, surpassing Rs. 2 trillion in transaction value and achieving over 2.5 million users. With continuous enhancements to the platform, including the introduction of innovative solutions such as BOC Flex Tap and Pay, the Bank continues to provide customers with faster, simpler and more secure digital payment experiences while supporting the transition towards a digital and cashless economy.

Further strengthening its commitment to sustainable development, BOC successfully issued the largest ever Sustainability Bond by a licensed commercial bank in Sri Lanka, reinforcing its role in supporting responsible financing and national priorities.

As part of its commitment to corporate social responsibility and national recovery efforts, Bank of Ceylon contributed Rs. 500 million to the Government’s ‘Rebuilding Sri Lanka’ Fund to support communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah. This initiative reflects the Bank’s longstanding role in supporting communities and contributing towards national resilience during times of need.

Further expanding financial inclusion, Bank of Ceylon has established its presence across all 331 Divisional Secretariat Divisions in Sri Lanka, ensuring banking services reach communities islandwide. Through initiatives such as BOC Connect, the Bank continues to bring banking closer to people by empowering communities with accessible financial services. Together with more than 2,500 customer touchpoints, including branches, self-service banking facilities, ATMs, CRMs, digital centres and agent banking outlets, along with its international presence in the United Kingdom, India (Chennai), Maldives and Seychelles, BOC continues to provide convenient and reliable banking services locally and globally.

Through initiatives such as expanding QR payment adoption, strengthening digital banking platforms and encouraging secure electronic transactions, Bank of Ceylon continues to support Sri Lanka’s journey towards a more inclusive digital cashless economy while ensuring that no one is left behind.

Beyond its financial strength and extensive reach, Bank of Ceylon continues to enhance customer experiences through technology-driven solutions, responsible banking and sustainable business practices. By continuously upgrading its services and embracing emerging technologies, the Bank remains focused on meeting evolving customer needs while creating meaningful value for individuals, businesses and the nation.

Commenting on the achievement, Chairman Kavinda de Zoysa said: “Being recognised once again as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand is a tremendous honour and reflects the confidence and trust that generations of Sri Lankans have placed in Bank of Ceylon. This achievement belongs to our valued customers, dedicated employees and all our stakeholders who have supported our journey over the years. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening our contribution through industry innovation, responsible banking, service excellence and initiatives that create lasting value for the people of Sri Lanka.”

General Manager/Chief Executive Officer Y. A. Jayathilaka said: ‘This recognition as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand reflects the strength of our vision, our commitment to continuous improvement and the confidence customers place in Bank of Ceylon. As the financial landscape continues to evolve, we remain focused on advancing digital transformation through customer-centric platforms, technology-driven solutions and continuous service enhancements. By embracing innovation, strengthening our digital capabilities and maintaining the reliability that has defined BOC for over eight decades, we continue to create greater value for our customers and contribute towards Sri Lanka’s progress.”

As Bank of Ceylon celebrates this significant milestone, it does so with renewed determination to shape the future of banking in Sri Lanka. Guided by innovation, strengthened by financial resilience and inspired by the confidence of millions of customers, BOC remains committed to advancing digital transformation, supporting sustainable growth and creating a lasting positive impact on the nation.

Bloomfield, who had to share the Under-23 Inter-Club 2-day title with CCC last year in a high scoring final, will be looking to win it outright this year when they take on Moors SC in a semi-final match starting today at the Surrey grounds, Maggona.

They will of course bear in mind that in their group match Moors SC had the upper hand when they beat them in the first innings by a narrow margin of 16 runs.

Bloomfield’s build up towards the knockout stage has been extremely good having piled up a massive 586-9 declared in their quarter-final game against Negombo CC four days ago and dismissed their opponents for 197. One of the keys to Bloomfield’s success has been that they bat very deep till number 10. With runs on the board they have the bowlers to do the job for them.

Moors SC come into the semi-finals having knocked out SSC with a faultless display. They defended their modest total of 258 splendidly through their bowlers to dismiss SSC for 162. In the second innings Moors SC got some good batting practice for the semi-finals with their top three batters scoring fifties apiece.

BRC come on the back of defeating last year’s joint champions CCC in the first innings when they meet Kurunegala YCC at the CCC grounds. It was a thoroughly professional approach that BRC adopted, bowling out CCC for 268 and then going onto pile up 328-8 in reply. That performance should give them enough confidence for today’s game.

On the other hand Kurunegala YCC cannot be underestimated. In the quarter-final against Chilaw Marians CC it was their captain Lakvin Abeysinghe’s innings of 171 that made up 75 percent of their total of 227 after they were six down for 96. Kurunegala YCC did well to keep Chilaw Marians CC down to 200, but will need to pull up their socks and perform better than that if they are to give BRC a good run. – [ST]

The Shoppes at City of Dreams Sri Lanka on Wednesday marked a major milestone in its evolution with the official announcement of Scope Cinemas’ inclusion.

Scheduled to open on Level 10 before the end of 2026, Scope Cinemas Multiplex will become one of the destination’s defining anchor attractions, bringing next-generation cinema technology and immersive viewing experiences new to the Sri Lankan market.

The announcement marks a defining milestone for The Shoppes since its opening in August 2025. More than the arrival of a cinema, it reflects the continued evolution of the destination, further strengthening its position as Sri Lanka’s premier integrated retail, dining, entertainment, and lifestyle destination.

Colombo Hotels Senior Vice President and Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka General Manager Kamal Munasinghe said: ‘The Shoppes was always envisioned as more than a retail destination-it was designed to bring together shopping, dining, and entertainment in a way that encourages people to stay longer, return more often, and discover something new with every visit. Welcoming Scope Cinemas is a significant step in that journey, reinforcing our ambition to create experiences that continue to redefine Colombo’s lifestyle landscape.’

Located within City of Dreams Sri Lanka, South Asia’s first and largest fully integrated lifestyle destination, The Shoppes has been introduced to the market through a carefully planned, phased opening. With Levels 7 and 8 currently operational, the upcoming opening of the waterfront Ground Floor and Levels 9 and 10 will further expand the destination’s offering and introduce several new anchor attractions and experiences.

Set to become one of Sri Lanka’s most anticipated entertainment destinations, the new five-screen multiplex will introduce a new generation of cinema technology and immersive experiences never before seen in the local market. Complemented by two exclusive VIP cinema halls, each with its own private lobby and curated gourmet dining offering, the experience has been designed to redefine movie-going for Sri Lankan audiences.

Scope Cinemas Chairman and CEO Naveed Cader said: ‘We are proud to partner with The Shoppes at City of Dreams Sri Lanka to create a cinema destination unlike anything the country has experienced before. By combining next-generation technology, premium hospitality, and thoughtfully curated entertainment, this multiplex will set a new benchmark for movie-going in Sri Lanka and give audiences more reasons to experience cinema on the big screen. This is what we stand for: bringing international experiences to Sri Lankan audiences and creating memories that last.’

The Shoppes at City of Dreams Sri Lanka was the Event Partner for the premiere of Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Sri Lanka’s biggest-ever movie premiere event, marking the occasion with an exclusive celebration on 29 July attended by media representatives, partners, and invited guests. Adding to the excitement, guests witnessed Sri Lanka’s first-ever Spider-Man-inspired drone show, creating a spectacular visual tribute to the iconic superhero.

The high-energy celebration showcased The Shoppes’ ability to bring world-class entertainment moments to life, while highlighting the arrival of Scope Cinemas as a key anchor attraction.

The announcement comes just days before the first anniversary of The Shoppes and builds momentum towards its next stage of development. Beyond Scope Cinemas, the upcoming opening of Levels 9 and 10 will introduce a new food court, expanded entertainment offerings, and a vibrant nightlife destination designed to redefine Colombo’s after-hours experience.

Through the continued introduction of destination-defining retail partners and experiences, The Shoppes is strengthening its position as one of Sri Lanka’s foremost retail, dining, entertainment, and lifestyle destinations, creating greater value for visitors, tenants, and partners while contributing to the broader appeal of City of Dreams Sri Lanka.

The 1990 Suwa Seriya Foundation today (31) marked the 10th anniversary of its emergency ambulance service at a ceremony held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo under the patronage of Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

Siddhalepa Ayurveda product range and Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort have been honoured with two prestigious accolades at the inaugural GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific Sri Lanka Conference and Awards 2026. Siddhalepa Ayurveda products received the ‘Excellence in Herbal Wellness and Functional Nutrition in Sri Lanka’ award, while Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort was recognised as the ‘Holistic Health and Wellness Service Provider of the Year in Sri Lanka.’

The awards were presented during the GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Awards Gala held at ITC Ratnadipa, Colombo, on 21 July 2026. The event brought together regional healthcare leaders, policymakers, clinical experts, and wellness professionals to celebrate excellence, ethics, and innovation across the healthcare and wellness sectors through a rigorous nomination-only evaluation process led by an esteemed international and local jury.

GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific is a premier regional platform dedicated to connecting healthcare providers, aesthetic centres, wellness destinations, and policymakers across more than 14 countries. The GlobalHealth Sri Lanka Awards celebrate organisations that uphold the highest standards of professional practice, ethical governance, service excellence, and patient-centred innovation.

The recognition awarded to Siddhalepa Ayurveda products celebrates more than nine decades of pioneering authentic Ayurvedic healthcare through herbal products that have become synonymous with trust, quality, and natural healing. Built upon Sri Lanka’s rich indigenous Ayurvedic knowledge and refined through generations of expertise, research, and innovation, the Siddhalepa Ayurveda product range has brought the benefits of authentic Ayurveda into the daily lives of consumers in Sri Lanka and across the world.

Combining time-honoured Ayurvedic wisdom with modern scientific research, stringent quality assurance, and responsible manufacturing practices, Siddhalepa Ayurveda products have continually evolved to address the changing health and well-being needs of consumers while preserving the integrity of traditional Ayurveda. This commitment has enabled the Siddhalepa Ayurveda product range to become one of Sri Lanka’s most recognised Ayurvedic offerings.

From its origins in Sri Lanka over 90 years ago, Siddhalepa Ayurveda products have grown into a globally recognised representation of Sri Lankan Ayurveda. Trusted by generations and embraced internationally, the product range continues to carry Sri Lanka’s healing heritage beyond its shores, offering natural healthcare solutions that have become part of everyday lifestyles around the world.

Complementing this achievement, Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort was honoured with the ‘Holistic Health and Wellness Service Provider of the Year in Sri Lanka’ award. The recognition acknowledges the resort’s commitment to delivering authentic Ayurvedic healing experiences through personalised treatments, therapeutic programs, and holistic care that combines traditional practices with modern hospitality standards. Building on Siddhalepa’s decades of expertise in developing authentic Ayurvedic products, the Health Resort puts this accumulated knowledge and experience into practice through customised wellness solutions, applying time-tested Ayurvedic principles to create meaningful healing journeys for guests.

Commenting on the achievement, Siddhalepa Group Chairman and Managing Director Asoka Hettigoda said, ‘These recognitions reaffirm our commitment to preserving the authenticity of Sri Lankan Ayurveda while ensuring its benefits continue to reach people in meaningful ways. Through our herbal healthcare products, we have taken Sri Lanka’s Ayurvedic heritage to consumers across the world, while Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort continues to offer authentic healing experiences that showcase the true value of Ayurveda. We are honoured to receive these awards on behalf of our dedicated team and the generations of customers who have placed their trust in Siddhalepa.’

These two recognitions reinforce Siddhalepa’s enduring commitment to advancing authentic Ayurveda, with its internationally recognised product range continuing to carry Sri Lanka’s Ayurvedic heritage to consumers around the world, while Siddhalepa Ayurveda Health Resort showcases the country’s rich tradition of holistic healing through authentic Ayurveda experiences.

The Government has moved to address implementation delays affecting Indian-funded development projects, focusing on removing bottlenecks, renewing key agreements, and strengthening project oversight through a dedicated monitoring unit at the Presidential Secretariat.

Labour Minister and Finance and Planning Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando and Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha reviewed the progress of projects financed by the Government of India during a meeting at the Presidential Secretariat.

The discussions examined challenges affecting the implementation of Indian-funded infrastructure projects and measures required to resolve them. The two sides also discussed the renewal of agreements needed to ensure the continuation of the projects.

The review covered projects implemented through the Ministries of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, Ports and Civil Aviation, Plantation and Community Infrastructure, Housing, Construction and Water Supply, Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Science and Technology, and Justice and National Integration.

The meeting also reviewed projects financed through the $ 450 million loan and grant assistance extended by the Government of India for disaster recovery and reconstruction.

Officials also discussed establishing a dedicated unit within the Presidential Secretariat to oversee and monitor the implementation of Indian-funded projects.

Chief of Staff to the President Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Treasury Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ministry Secretary Dr. Kolita Kamal Jinadasa, and officials from the Presidential Secretariat and Finance, Planning and Economic Development Ministry attended the meeting.

The Indian delegation included Deputy High Commissioner Maitrey Kulkarni, First Secretary (Political) Navya Singla, First Secretary (Commerce) Saurabh Sabhlok, and other officials.

The NIHS EXPO 2026 Educational Exhibition and Centenary Museum, organised to mark the 100th anniversary of the National Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS), Kalutara, were opened to the public yesterday (30) under the patronage of Minister of Health and Mass Media Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa.

HNB Life PLC marked its 25th anniversary with a Special Market Opening Bell Ringing Ceremony at the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE).

The ceremony brought together HNB Life’s Board of Directors, Executive Committee, Management and distinguished guests, alongside CSE Chairman Dimuthu Abeyesekera, CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike and members of the CSE senior management, to celebrate a milestone that reflects not only the company’s longevity, but also its evolution into one of Sri Lanka’s leading life insurers.

Since its inception as HNB Assurance twenty-five years ago, the company has evolved to meet the changing needs of Sri Lankans. Today, as HNB Life, it enters a new chapter with a refreshed identity that reflects both its heritage and future ambitions. More than a change of name, the transformation reinforces HNB Life’s singular focus on life insurance and its commitment to helping every Sri Lankan build a financially secure future with confidence.

HNB Life and HNB General Insurance Chairman Stuart Chapman said: ‘Twenty-five years is far more than a milestone. It represents the confidence that generations of customers, employees, shareholders and business partners have placed in HNB Life. Every chapter of our journey has been shaped by that trust. As we celebrate this occasion and our evolution into HNB Life, we also reaffirm our commitment to building an even stronger, more future-ready organisation that continues to create lasting value for all our stakeholders.’

HNB Life Executive Director/CEO Lasitha Wimalaratne added, ‘As we celebrate twenty-five years, we are also celebrating the people who have made this journey possible. From the families who have entrusted us with their futures to our employees, Life Planners, parent company Hatton National Bank and other partners who bring our purpose to life every day, this milestone belongs to all of them. Our transformation into HNB Life reflects how far we have come and where we are headed next. We have grown consistently by staying true to our purpose and we remain committed to making life insurance more accessible, relevant and meaningful for every Sri Lankan.’

Congratulating HNB Life on the milestone, CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike said ‘Reaching twenty-five years is a significant achievement for any organisation. We congratulate the Company on this milestone and look forward to its continued contribution to both the insurance industry and Sri Lanka’s capital market.’

Beruwala Resorts PLC has obtained a Rs. 60 million short-term loan from its ultimate parent, The Colombo Fort Land and Building PLC, to meet working capital requirements.

The company said the facility carries an interest rate of the Average Weighted Prime Lending Rate (AWPLR) plus 2%.

Beruwala Resorts said its Related Party Transactions Review Committee had determined that the transaction was conducted on normal commercial terms and was not prejudicial to the interests of the company or its minority shareholders.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake says sustainable national development must be built on the country’s culture, values and historical heritage, stressing that physical development alone is not enough.