Category: Daily Financial Times

Though one hand is already placed on the Cup, the other hand is on the verge of grabbing it, but nothing is rock solid until the Lions get past their last hurdle, “The Rocks”, on the final weekend of the Dialog Schools Rugby League 2026. Even if Trinity loses this match with two bonus points, they still could become League Champions, but they wouldn’t want that for sure, as they strive to clinch the League Title as an unbeaten side for the second straight year. (This column renders last year’s encounter between these two sides as invalid)

On the contrary, the Peterites shall aim to ensure that Trinity loses with either no or just one bonus point, so that they stand a chance to be crowned Champions, if Zahira, right royally messes up its chances at Havelock Park, just less than a kilometre away.

Wesley vs Royal at Havelock Park on 26 June:

We must acknowledge the Elephant in the room that led to the present reality of the Tuskers looking down the barrel once again, following four consecutive defeats. Although each defeat had a different reason, the core factor remains as the ability of situational decision making. There is no real shortage of skills, but deficiency certainly exists in rugby instincts, and perhaps knowledge to an extent. We even find Bowl Segment teams being quite sharp in quick decision making when faced with unfamiliar scenarios, without the help of their coaches, but we find the Royal Captain glancing helplessly at the bench for every petty decision made on the field from the beginning of each game, whereas he should have been allowed to make decisions as the captain. This isn’t proper coaching, and the end result of the long-term effect of preventing players from making their own decisions, has now manifested itself as an Elephant that cannot be shoved away from the scene instantly. Although this cannot be addressed entirely before this game, the question would be if there is sufficient time to remedy this before Royal’s primary event of the year.

Other than for the above factors that may or may not influence the outcome of this game, both teams are evenly skilled, that should provide a fantastic game of rugby for the spectators, hence this is a clash not to be missed. The following stats comparison are averages from two Super Round matches, excluding the Trinity games.

The first stats show sanctioned penalties, and the second shows the total number of offenses committed in one’s own half, that may or may not have been penalised. This puts Royal in jeopardy even before the match begins. Wesley would most likely go for the kill here, unless the penalty is awarded right in front of the sticks. Royal’s lineout turnover skills are pretty basic; thus, Wesley’s onslaughts are highly likely to take full swing, and end in Pick and Drives to put up the finishing touches.

Due to the above vulnerability, the Tuskers are better off avoiding kicking the ball away and holding onto possession, once they are inside the opposition’s grid. This would offer them ample chances of attacking and scoring, either with or without being aided by penalties. Since Royal is unable to retain their lineout throws reliably, it could affect their attacking chances, particularly using Mauls.

Both teams are deemed to pull-off spectacular breaks, and score an array of Tries by hook or by crook, hence the conversion accuracy could decide the victors, as it did in a few close contests during the past week or so. However, the stats show that both teams have converted exactly a third of their Tries, that doesn’t help to break the deadlock.

St. Peter’s vs Trinity at SPC Ground on 27 June:

The Bamba Brigade could have been another unbeaten side if not for the only, highly uncharacteristic, silly mistake that they made against Zahira, which doesn’t make any sense to date, thus we must conclude that it has to be an act of supernatural forces, as the Peterites have never done anything ridiculous like this in recent years. Moreover, you could be rest assured that the Bamba Brigade shall have a specially designed game plan to be executed exclusively for the Lions. Along with the Peterites’ undying attitude to prevail, coupled with their rugby aptitude that is at a phenomenal high, expect the Brigade to be another mega-menace to the Lions’ quest for unchallenged glory.

The following SPC stats are averages from their last 3 games, and Trinity’s stats are averages from their games against Wesley and Zahira. Trinity’s stats against Royal were not considered, as it was a one-sided affair.

SPC’s game discipline has continuously been an issue since the beginning of this season, and they might pay the ultimate price in this encounter, as consistent habits cannot be controlled abruptly, and certainly not in a crunch game like this. As such, we can expect the Saints to concede over 15 sanctioned penalties, and commit over 10 felonies within their compound, in addition to at least one banishment unto the dungeons, if not two. The Lions shall be equipped with well-defined plans, to take advantage of these situations, as they occur.

While ball handling is similar at both sides, Trinity has shown tremendous weakness in their lineouts, that may affect a bulk of their scoring chances using Maul offensives, resulting in lost Tries that might prove fatal in the endgame. It would be also a pity, since the Peterites are already quite weak in their Maul defensive tactics and skills, which Trinity would miss out on. However, the killer factor would be the full-out clearance kicks, through which SPC is very likely to score every time. Therefore, Trinity should rethink and realign their kicking strategy for this fixture, as the minute of mistakes could flip things over in an instant.

As this fight might also walk the tightrope, every point scored could be pivotal, hence successful conversion rates could matter. Based on the above stats, the points difference that could be achieved via conversions is just 2. Thus, as it stands now, it should be an even contest, although the Lions shall take the field as favourites. The equilibrium could be severely affected, if at least one of the following two things happen miraculously.

1. SPC restricting their penalty count to less than 10

2. Trinity curtailing their lineout issues

The second one has a higher chance of materialising, because the Peterite Forwards are traditionally not big on turnovers, hence are unlikely to contest lineouts.

Isipathana vs Zahira at Havelock Park on 27 June:

One doesn’t really need stats to argue that Zahira’s steady and fierce run cannot be stopped by Pathana’s present form. However, the Zahirians must take a few things into heart before they set foot on Green Machine’s home turf.

Regardless of the level of rugby that the opposition is capable of playing, this season’s Green Machine could beat that high flying team if they wish to, so its better not to make them want to, by provoking them. The following stats are averages from the last 3 games.

Most stats are comparable except for the conversion rate, which means that Pathana has to score more Tries than Zahira in order to catch up. This also means that the home team should avoid gambling by attempting to take 3 points off penalties, unless they could be slotted effortlessly with both eyes closed.

Zahira has shown vulnerability against Pick and Drives in the past, while Pathana has consistently revealed weakness in protecting their blindsides owing to slow drift defences. These two factors alone are sufficient to open up an incredible competition between Zahira’s fast, evasive Backs, and Pathana’s destructive Forwards who did a number on the Tuskers.

Sri Lanka is looking to leverage its strategic location and expand petroleum-related and logistics exports as part of an ambitious plan to more than double export earnings to $ 36 billion, according to Export Development Board (EDB) Chairman Mangala Wijesinghe.

Speaking at a media briefing yesterday, Wijesinghe revealed that several proposals aimed at boosting petroleum-linked export activities are currently under evaluation, following discussions involving the Board of Investment (BOI), the relevant Ministry, and the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC).

“As we seek to expand export earnings from around $ 17 billion currently to $ 36 billion over the coming years, sectors linked to transport, logistics, and petroleum-based products will play an important role,” he said.

Wijesinghe said Sri Lanka had received a number of promising proposals in the petroleum and logistics space, adding that value-added activities linked to petroleum products could generate additional export revenue while strengthening the country’s role as a regional trade and maritime hub.

The renewed focus on petroleum-related exports comes amid growing interest in positioning Sri Lanka as an energy, logistics, and services hub in the Indian Ocean, with authorities seeking new sources of foreign exchange earnings and investment.

At the same time, the EDB Chairman stressed that achieving the country’s export ambitions would depend heavily on implementing a series of long-awaited policy and institutional reforms identified under the National Export Development Plan (NEDP).

He said reforms relating to the EDB, trade facilitation, and the wider export ecosystem were being finalised through collaboration between the EDB, Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry, and Finance Ministry.

While declining to provide a firm implementation deadline, Wijesinghe said the reforms were being treated as a priority given their importance to meeting Sri Lanka’s five-year export targets.

“Our objective is to implement these measures as quickly as possible,” he said, noting that export growth would require not only new sectors and investment but also a more efficient trade and regulatory framework.

Celebrating the vibrant culinary traditions of Karaikudi, a town in Tamil Nadu’s Sivaganga District renowned for its rich gastronomy, Choccan is the newest Karaikudi restaurant located at Kotahena.

The restaurant brings the essence of South Indian cuisine to Sri Lanka, offering an array of aromatic, flavourful, and traditional dishes rooted in Karaikudi’s culinary heritage. Drawing on centuries-old cooking methods, the menu combines native spices with carefully selected ingredients sourced from both Sri Lanka and India. Customers can enjoy a wide selection of everyday favourites and regional delicacies, including Idli, Dosa, and Sambar, as well as signature specialities such as Meen Kuzhambu, Kari Dosa, Chettinad Chicken, Mutton Chukka, Bun Parota, and more.

The vision behind Choccan is inspired by the founder’s frequent travels to India and an appreciation for Karaikudi’s distinctive cuisine, renowned for its flavours, aromatic spices, and meticulous preparation. The restaurant wants to offer an exceptional culinary experience, creating the authentic flavours of Karaikudi while embracing the warmth and hospitality that define South Indian culture.

Choccan offers a distinctive culinary experience, from its carefully curated menu to its welcoming ambience. Every aspect of the restaurant reflects the traditions, heritage, and spirit of South India. The use of authentic ingredients and traditional recipes ensures that each dish captures the richness of Karaikudi cuisine.

Choccan offers an inviting destination for South Indian food enthusiasts in Sri Lanka. Whether dining with family and friends or discovering new culinary favourites, savouring the distinctive flavours of Karaikudi in the heart of Kotahena.

In a significant milestone for youth-led advocacy in South Asia, the Liberal Youth Movement (LYM) Sri Lanka has officially been accepted as a member of the International Federation of Liberal Youth (IFLRY). The historic decision was finalised at the 58th IFLRY General Assembly held recently in Taipei, Taiwan, placing Sri Lankan youth advocates on a prominent global stage.

Founded in 2022 by Namini Panditha-a prominent Sri Lankan Attorney-at-Law, author, podcaster, and digital media personality-the Liberal Youth Movement was established to address a critical gap in grassroots civic engagement. The movement’s mission focuses on empowering young people across diverse socio-economic backgrounds to champion core democratic ideals, individual rights, the rule of law, and peaceful public dialogue.

In just four years, LYM has grown into a highly active network spanning multiple districts across Sri Lanka. Through regional workshops, training initiatives, and constitutional advocacy, the organisation has consistently driven political and legal literacy among the country’s youth, even initiating proactive legal measures to protect fundamental liberties during periods of national crisis.

Speaking on the global recognition, Panditha emphasised the long-term vision behind the movement. “When we started LYM, our goal was simple yet urgent: to build an inclusive space where young Sri Lankans could learn to participate meaningfully in governance and defend their civil freedoms. Becoming a part of IFLRY connects our local efforts directly to a worldwide community of youth leaders who share these exact principles,” she stated.

The International Federation of Liberal Youth (IFLRY), headquartered in Berlin, Germany, is the premier global umbrella organisation for liberal, democratic, and radical youth groups. Holding a Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and full membership within Liberal International, IFLRY bridges national youth movements with powerful international platforms. By joining this network, LYM Sri Lanka gains access to vital global resources, international policy forums, and collaborative human rights networks.

The induction has drawn widespread praise from regional bodies, including South Asia Students For Liberty (SFL), who commended Panditha and her team for their relentless efforts in growing the liberty movement within the region.

As Sri Lanka navigates complex socio-economic reforms, the formal inclusion of LYM into the global framework of IFLRY highlights the evolving role of young professionals and civil society leaders in shaping the nation’fs democratic future.

The CEMBA/CEMPA Alumni Association successfully convened its 8th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 20 June, 2026, bringing together distinguished academics, alumni, and members of the professional community. The event served as a platform to strengthen alumni bonds, review achievements, and chart the course for future initiatives.

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address, dedicated to the memory of the late Senior Professor Nalin Abesekera.

Outgoing President Yajith de Silva, in his remarks, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Open University of Sri Lanka (OUSL) Vice Chancellor Senior Professor P.M.C. Thilakerathna, the academic staff, the executive committee, and the membership for their unwavering cooperation in conducting the affairs of the alumni. He emphasised that Professor Abesekera was remembered as a tower of strength to the alumni community-an eminent scholar, mentor, and visionary leader whose guidance and support shaped the association’s growth. De Silva acknowledged that his own journey as president was made possible through Professor Abesekera’s encouragement and mentorship, underscoring the profound personal and institutional impact of his legacy.

The keynote address was delivered by University of Sri Jayewardenepura Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM) Senior Professor Ajantha Dharmasiri. In a deeply moving tribute titled “Nalin as a Novel Navigator”, Professor Dharmasiri reflected on Professor Abesekera’s multifaceted contributions. He described him as a scholar of stature yet humble and humane, a “navigator in marketing” who bridged global concepts with local realities by translating marketing principles into Sinhala for the benefit of entrepreneurs. Professor Abesekera’s academic journey included a PhD in Marketing and Leadership and an MBA from the University of Colombo, with recognition as an Outstanding Asian Educator in 2018 by IASPER. His editorial leadership of the Sri Lanka Journal of Management Studies and his role as reviewer for numerous international journals further highlighted his scholarly influence. Beyond academia, he was a “navigator in humanity,” a lifelong learner who valued gratitude, upheld cultural traditions, and inspired colleagues and students alike with humility and creativity. Professor Dharmasiri concluded that the best tribute to his friend was to continue his unfinished mission for the betterment of humanity.

In his remarks, Dean of the Faculty S.A.D. Senanayaka, assured his continued support for the activities of the Alumni Association. His pledge of collaboration was warmly welcomed by members, reinforcing the strong partnership between alumni and the university administration.

The Vice Chancellor, serving as Chief Guest, commended the outgoing president and committee for their dedicated service to the alumni community and for strengthening ties with the Commonwealth of Learning. He emphasised the importance of launching new short courses to equip alumni and students with multi-skilled competencies, particularly in soft skills and emerging areas of professional development. He endorsed the action plans proposed by President-elect Lakmal Gunarathna, especially in advancing AI skills, noting that such initiatives are vital for enhancing competitiveness in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. Reflecting on the keynote, the Vice Chancellor stressed that the demise of Senior Professor Nalin Abesekera was not only a major loss to the Open University but also to the nation, as his scholarship and humanity had elevated Sri Lanka’s academic and professional standards.

Incoming President Lakmal Gunarathna outlined his vision to build upon the achievements of his predecessors. He pledged to expand alumni activities, foster stronger collaboration with academic staff, and introduce innovative programs that address contemporary challenges in management and leadership. He called upon members to actively engage in these initiatives, emphasising that collective effort and unity would ensure the association’s continued growth and relevance. His plans included strengthening professional networks, enhancing alumni visibility, and promoting knowledge exchange through workshops and seminars.

The evening concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Secretary Victor Patrick, who expressed appreciation to the Vice Chancellor, faculty members, distinguished guests, sponsors, and alumni for their presence and support. He acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing committee and extended best wishes to the newly elected leadership team.

Opposition MP Faiszer Musthapha, PC yesterday handed over a Private Member’s Bill titled ‘Social Media Minimum Age’ to the Secretary General of Parliament.

The Bill seeks to prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms in Sri Lanka, while granting the Child Affairs Minister extensive powers to regulate online access, including imposing daily usage limits and restricting the hours during which minors can use internet services.

The primary objective of this proposed legislation is to shield children from harmful online content and activities by requiring internet service providers and social media platforms to prevent access by users under 16 years of age.

In addition, the Bill introduces broad regulatory powers that could significantly reshape how young Sri Lankans access digital platforms.

Under the proposed law, the Child Affairs Minister would be empowered to issue regulations compelling service providers to block access to designated internet services and social media platforms for children under 16 years old. The Minister could also determine how long minors are permitted to use certain online services and even prescribe the times of day when access is allowed.

The legislation envisages the appointment of an Authorised Commissioner under the National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) with extensive oversight powers. The Commissioner would be authorised to receive complaints, conduct investigations, demand information and documents, issue directions, and undertake inspections to ensure compliance.

The Bill’s scope extends beyond conventional social media platforms.

Its definition of social media services includes any electronic service of which the primary or significant purpose is to facilitate online interaction between users and enable the posting of content. Such wording could potentially capture a wide range of platforms, including messaging, community, gaming, and content-sharing services depending on how regulations are drafted.

The proposal comes amid a growing international movement to tighten social media access for minors, driven by concerns over cyberbullying, mental health impacts, online exploitation, harmful content, and excessive screen time.

However, countries attempting similar restrictions have often faced significant practical and legal challenges, particularly around age verification, privacy concerns, freedom of expression, and enforceability.

If the Bill gets approved by Parliament, Sri Lanka could become one of the few countries in the region to impose statutory age-based restrictions on social media.

Sri Lanka successfully participated in the 10th China-South Asia Exposition (CSAE) and the 30th China (Kunming) Import and Export Fair held from 11 to 16 June 2026 in Kunming, China, further strengthening trade, investment and economic cooperation between Sri Lanka and China.

The Sri Lankan delegation was led by Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe, and included Minister (Commercial) of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Beijing and the officials of the Department of Commerce, and over 250 business representatives from around 100 Sri Lankan exporters. Deputy Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment Minister Arun Premachandra also participated in the China-South Asia Cooperation Forum held alongside the Exposition.

Prior to the opening of the Exposition, the delegation participated in the 3rd Seminar between Chinese and South Asian Government Industries, Universities and Research Institutions, which focused on innovation, research collaboration, technology transfer and industrial partnerships.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Minister Samarasinghe emphasised the importance of strengthening market access, investment cooperation, SME partnerships, digital trade, and trade facilitation to support export-oriented economies. He underscored the need for deeper economic collaboration with China to promote sustainable growth, enhance trade opportunities, and foster shared prosperity across the region.

The Minister also inaugurated the Sri Lanka Pavilion, which featured 100 booths spanning more than 1,000 square metres and showcased a diverse range of Sri Lankan products and services, including Ceylon tea, spices, gems and jewellery, coconut-based products, seafood, apparel, handicrafts, wellness products, and aviation-related services.

Sri Lanka’s participation in the exposition has grown significantly in recent years, with the 2026 delegation representing one of the country’s largest business contingents to attend the event. Participating Sri Lankan companies reported successful product sales during the Fair and established promising business-to-business partnerships, paving the way for potential export deals, distributorship arrangements, and long-term commercial collaborations. Sri Lanka also participated in the South Asia Commodity (Tea) Festival to further promote Ceylon Tea in the Chinese market.

A dedicated Business-to-Business (B2B) Matchmaking Event was organised by the authorities of the Yunnan Province in parallel with the Exposition to facilitate direct engagement between Sri Lankan and Chinese enterprises. A notable outcome of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between M/S Premium Beverages Ltd., a Sri Lankan liquor exporter, and one of China’s leading winery and liquor distribution companies to promote Sri Lankan products in the Chinese market.

During the visit, Minister Samarasinghe and the delegation held discussions with the Governor of Yunnan Province and the Department of Commerce of Yunnan Province on expanding trade and investment cooperation, improving market access and strengthening logistics connectivity between Sri Lanka and China.

The delegation also visited the Kunming Comprehensive Bonded Zone, where the Chinese Government has expressed its willingness to provide Sri Lankan exporters with access to free warehouse facilities under the “Three Facilitations and Three Exemptions” initiative. The proposed facility is expected to strengthen supply chain connectivity, improve trade efficiency, and support the expansion of Sri Lankan products in the Chinese market.

The China-South Asia Exposition, jointly organised by the Ministry of Commerce of China and the Government of Yunnan Province, continues to serve as one of the region’s premier platforms for promoting trade, investment, business networking, and people-to-people exchanges between China and South Asian countries. The organisers provided the entire Sri Lanka Pavilion free of charge, while the Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka successfully coordinated the country’s participation in close collaboration with the organisers, participating Sri Lankan companies, and other key stakeholders. In recognition of its outstanding efforts in organising and facilitating Sri Lanka’s participation, the Department of Commerce was awarded the “Outstanding Exhibition Organiser Award” by the Exposition organisers.

Sri Lanka’s successful participation at the Exposition has further strengthened its longstanding ties with China and created new opportunities for trade, investment, and business collaboration. The Government of Sri Lanka remains committed to supporting exporters, expanding access to international markets, and deepening economic engagement with China, the world’s second-largest consumer market.

A delegation led by Institute of Area Studies Research Centre for Global Governance and International Communication Director and Peking University, China Institute of International Communication Dean Prof. Wang Weijia, conducted a series of high-level research interviews in Colombo recently.

During their visit, the delegation met with several government and state sector representatives, members of the legal fraternity, members of the armed forces and experts from leading international affairs think tanks, engaging in wide-ranging discussions on Sri Lanka-China cooperation.

Trade and investment as key growth drivers

At a meeting with Western Province Governor Presidential Special Envoy on Foreign Investments and Hanif Yusoof, the delegation engaged in in-depth discussions on Sri Lanka’s international trade and investment landscape. Governor Yusoof noted that international trade and foreign direct investment are critical to Sri Lanka’s future economic growth, with logistics, energy, and tourism identified as priority sectors for attracting foreign capital.

He further highlighted the longstanding involvement of Chinese enterprises in Sri Lanka’s infrastructure, energy, road, and telecommunications sectors, noting their significant contribution to the country’s economic development. Looking ahead, he stressed that Sri Lanka should leverage its strategic geographic position to build regional supply chain networks and deepen cooperation with Chinese enterprises in export-oriented manufacturing.

A relationship “Beyond Commercial”

Speaking with Treasury and Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, the delegation explored various dimensions of the Sri Lanka-China relationship. Dr. Suriyapperuma emphasised that the two countries are bound by longstanding historical, cultural and sentimental ties that extend well “beyond commercial and transactions”.

In this context, he highlighted Port City Colombo as a symbol of the enduring partnership between Sri Lanka and China, and described the project as an important platform with the potential to contribute to Sri Lanka’s long-term economic growth and international connectivity.

Exploring new models of cooperation

During the interview with Board of Investment of Sri Lanka (BOI) Acting Chairman Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena, discussions focused on Sri Lanka’s current investment landscape and potential new models for Sri Lanka-China cooperation.

Dr. Jayawardena noted that foreign direct investment (FDI) projects such as Port City Colombo generate both direct and indirect economic benefits, including foreign capital inflows, employment opportunities for local citizens, and technology transfer. Beyond infrastructure development, he noted that high-tech manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and textiles should serve as key areas for deeper Sri Lanka-China cooperation.

Looking ahead, he hopes to leverage academic and think-tank institutions such as Peking University to create more platforms for mutual exchange and collaboration. In particular, he highlighted the value of learning from China’s experience in special economic zone governance, manufacturing development, and workforce training, with a view to exploring new avenues for deeper bilateral cooperation.

Throughout the visit, Prof. Wang introduced Peking University’s academic strengths in area studies and international communication to the officials and experts engaged during the delegation’s meetings. He also expressed the university’s commitment to conducting further research aligned with Sri Lanka’s development priorities, while fostering scholarly and cultural exchanges that strengthen mutual understanding and serve as a bridge between the two countries.

The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) yesterday clarified that individuals can sell their residential properties and personal vehicles without paying tax, subject to specified conditions under the amended Inland Revenue Act.

Residential property owners would qualify for a full tax exemption on the sale of a house if they have held legal ownership of the property for at least three years prior to the sale and have resided at the property for more than two years during that period.

If both conditions are satisfied, the entire proceeds from the sale would be exempt from tax, it said.

The IRD also clarified that transfers of property to family members or children are exempt from tax, with tax implications arising only when properties are sold to third parties.

In relation to vehicles, the IRD said the previous taxation framework has been removed under the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act, No. 11 of 2026.

According to the Department, gains arising from the sale of personal vehicles have been exempt from tax with retrospective effect from 1 April 2024.

The exemption applies regardless of a vehicle’s age, condition, or model, provided it is a personal vehicle and not held as trading stock or as a business asset.

As a result, the full profit arising from the sale of a personal vehicle is exempt from tax.

Sarvodaya Development Finance PLC (SDF) has delivered a strong financial performance for the year ended 31 March 2026, recording significant growth in income, profitability, portfolio expansion, and asset quality while continuing its commitment to responsible and inclusive finance.

For the financial year under review, SDF reported total income of Rs. 6.42 billion, a year-on year increase of 46.8%. Interest income rose by 43.8% to Rs. 5.85 billion, driven by business expansion and growth in earning assets. Net Interest Income increased by 35.4% to Rs. 3.58 billion, while Total Operating Income grew by 40.8% to Rs. 4.15 billion, reflecting the Company’s ability to generate strong and sustainable earnings.

Profitability improved substantially during the year. Operating Profit before Tax on Financial Services increased by 59.9% to Rs. 1.82 billion, while Profit Before Tax rose by 63.8% to Rs. 1.36 billion. Profit for the Year increased by 73.1% to Rs. 820.1 million compared with Rs. 473.8 million in the previous year. Earnings per share improved to Rs. 5.48, demonstrating enhanced value creation for shareholders.

The Company’s balance sheet expanded significantly, with total assets increasing by 65.8% to Rs. 37.37 billion as at 31 March 2026. Financial assets at amortised cost, including loans and receivables, grew by 67.2% to Rs. 20.60 billion, while lease rental receivables increased by 34.0% to Rs. 9.19 billion. SDF also strengthened its funding profile through debt securities, including Sustainable Bonds, amounting to Rs. 2.09 billion.

Chief Executive Officer Nilantha Jayanetti said: “The results achieved during FY2025/26 reflect the strength of our business model, disciplined growth strategy, and commitment to delivering responsible financial solutions. We remain focused on creating sustainable value while supporting communities and enterprises across Sri Lanka.”

SDF maintained a strong capital position, with a Tier 1 Capital Adequacy Ratio of 15.48% and a Total Capital Adequacy Ratio of 22.13%, both comfortably above regulatory requirements. Asset quality also improved, with the Gross Stage 3 Loans Ratio declining to 4.93% from 7.88% and the Net Stage 3 Loans Ratio improving to 2.94% from 5.70%. The Stage 3 Impairment Coverage Ratio strengthened to 42.60%.

Operational efficiency improved as the Cost-to-Income Ratio reduced to 42.99%, while Return on Equity increased to 19.60%. Reflecting its stronger financial position, SDF’s external credit rating was upgraded to Lanka Ratings (SL) BBB- Stable.

With a network of 56 branches, SDF remains committed to advancing financial inclusion, supporting sustainable enterprise growth, and contributing to Sri Lanka’s long-term socio-economic development.