Wednesday, March 31, 2021

Textrip of Elasto Group launches corporate website

Textrip of Elasto Group launches corporate website

Senior management of Textrip Pvt Ltd and guests

One of Sri Lanka’s premier manufacturers and exporter of natural latex based Progressive Resistance Bands and Exercise-Sports Products, Textrip (Pvt) Ltd. of Elasto Group launched its corporate website embedded with exclusive e-commerce features to everyone around the world. The new website (www.elasto.lk) has been redesigned to offer smooth navigation and functionality while allowing customers to see the full product portfolio of Textrip.

Created having user experience in mind, the site includes many exclusive features such as goal selection, muscle-group targeting and selected free delivery options.

P. A. Nandasena, COO, Textrip Pvt Ltd launching the new website    

During the launch at the Tangerine Hotel, Kalutara, the Chairman and Managing Director of the Company, Mangala Gunasekera said, “We are thrilled to debut our new website to our valued customers having the prime focus of assisting people in achieving their goals in life. We conceptualized the entire site to deliver a more valuable, user-centric and highly responsive design across all platforms and devices”.

Being a multiple award winner and having a global presence over 30 countries for supporting 100+ top global brands, Textrip is proudly accredited with ISO-9001, 14001, and REACH certifications. Company’s sports exercise brand – TEXSTRETCH is dominating the local market with over 70% share whilst playing a vital role in immunity development of people by guiding them for regular physical activities.

The developer of the new website, Sandaruwan Madduma Bandara, CEO of 3CS commented that, “The site makes it easy for users to buy products instantly and learn more. Most importantly, the site delivers both B2B and B2C services on one platform.” Textrip is offering a generous 20% discount across the site to celebrate the launch and welcome its customers use coupon “NEWSITE20”.

ISMM elects Sarath Gamage as new president

ISMM elects Sarath Gamage as new president

At the AGM of the Institute of Supply and Materials Management(ISMM) held on March 27 at the Western Province Aesthetic Resort, Sarath Gamage was unanimously elected as the 16th President, the youngest to be elected since its establishment in 1972. Gamage is also a Vice President of the Organisation of Professional Associations of Sri Lanka (OPA).

Gamage currently serves as the General Manager of St. Anthony’s Consolidated (Pvt) Ltd. and St. Anthony’s Hardware (Pvt) Ltd.

The Institute of Supply and Materials Management established in 1972 is the pioneer in supply chain education in Sri Lanka and was incorporated by an Act of Parliament in 1981.

At present ISMM conducts 16 courses in English and Sinhala in Supply Chain related subjects for the benefit of school leavers as well as those already employed in the relevant fields and currently the ISMM membership stands at around 1,200 members in all categories of membership. These members who are qualified in the field of Supply Chain Management are attached to leading private sector and public sector organisations locally and overseas.

ISMM is a member of the International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management which is the international body which encompasses all Supply Chain Institutes worldwide. ISMM is also affiliated to the International Trade Centre in Geneva and is their franchise holder in Sri Lanka for conducting of ITC’s International Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Course in Sri Lanka.

Media Factory buys majority shares held by Sam and Lara Balsara

The directors of Media Factory have just announced that they have purchased the majority stake held by Sam and Lara Balsara of Madison World in Madison Media SriLanka Pvt. Ltd and the company will now become a fully owned subsidiary of Media Factory Pvt Ltd. Sam and Lara Balsara have exited the Sri Lanka business. Sam Balsara has also resigned as a Director of Madison Media Sri Lanka Private Ltd. and the Company’s name has been changed to Midas Media Pvt Ltd.

Both parties have agreed that Midas Media and its Affiliates, Associates and Owners, Media Factory will immediately stop using the Madison name in any manner whatsoever nor claim ownership to the name Madison. Further, Sam and Lara Balsara and Madison in India or Sri Lanka will no longer be liable for any actions or financial liabilities or damages past, present, or future of the Company nor will they benefit from any financial assets or accruals to the company of the past, present or future for which they have not been compensated. Sam and Lara Balsara will also not claim any right or ownership to the name Midas Media Pvt Ltd.

Says Sam Balsara, Chairman, Madison World India, “We entered the Sri Lanka market, 12 years ago with the launch of Airtel in the country. Over the years we have built some great relationships both personally and professionally and I hope to continue those. I wish the current Directors of Media Factory and Midas Media all the very best”.

Says Mr. Kapila Vidanagamage, Director Media Factory, - “While we thank Sam and Lara for 12 years of mutual trust and friendship we look forward to our now 100% owned 2nd media unit which will add much-needed clout to our mother agency Media factory. The new entity will come online on the 1st of April 2021 and we are looking forward to adding more value to our clients’ businesses”.

Nithiesha Jayasekara, Managing Director Media Factory, added “We have studied the market and the industry quite thoroughly and we feel that the time is right for a strong independent local media outfit. One which can anticipate and impart local knowledge and insights about consumers would be most valuable to our clients.”

Pyramid Wilmar denies allegations

Pyramid Wilmar is an organization that engages in ethical business, following good governance and best practices which form the core of its existence and operation. By virtue of its uncompromising standards and dedicated commitment to its clientele and stakeholders, Pyramid Wilmar’s “Fortune” brand of products have earned leading standing in Sri Lanka’s cooking oil market, the Management of Pyramid Wilmar (Private) Limited (“Pyramid Wilmar”) said in a statement responding to recent media and social reports on imported coconut oil with high levels of Aflatoxin:

The statement adds: Pyramid Wilmar manufactures cooking oils under stringent quality parameters and are duly compliant with international and local health and safety required standards such as FSSC 22000, ISO 14001, ISO 9001, HACCP, GMP and health & safety guidelines. Furthermore, Pyramid Wilmar wishes to reiterate that its cooking oil products imported are subjected to requisite testing and verification before release into the local market. All cooking oils released to the market by Pyramid Wilmar are only released upon being duly certified as compliant with requisite quality standards, including total Aflatoxin levels in Coconut Oil as stipulated by the Sri Lankan regulatory authorities.

As a responsible corporate entity, Pyramid Wilmar would like to reassure its valued clientele and stakeholders that it considers them of paramount importance and value, with their health, nourishment and well-being being its primary concern, at all times. Pyramid Wilmar will continue to strive to serve their best interests without compromise.

Pyramid Wilmar categorically denies certain fabricated and false allegations/insinuations against its products including cooking oils, fat spreads and industrial margarines. Such allegations/insinuations against Pyramid Wilmar are demonstrably false, baseless and maliciously contrived with a view to discredit and damage Pyramid Wilmar’s reputation and standing in the market. Pyramid Wilmar reserves its right to take appropriate legal action against those making these allegations/insinuations, the statement said.

D. Samson Industries signs MoU with Faculty of Medicine University of Colombo

D. Samson Industries signs MoU with Faculty of Medicine University of Colombo

Professor Chandrika Wijeyaratne, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Kasun Rajapaksa, Managing Director of D. Samson Industries (Pvt) Ltd., Professor Vajira Dissanayake, the Dean, Faculty of Medicine University of Colombo , Professor Mandika Wijeyaratne, Head Department of Surgery, Dr. Chathuranga Ranasinghe, Coordinator Sports and Exercise Medicine Unit,Dr Romain Perera, Dr. Thusitha Kahaduwa, Dilshan Rajapaksa, Director at DSI, Oshini Jayasooriya, Business Development Manager at DSI and Jana

D. Samson Industries recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Faculty of Medicine University of Colombo (FOMUOC). The objective of this partnership was to collaborate for the production of a Beta Brand-Diabetic Shoe Range.

The number of diabetic patients in Sri Lanka is currently growing at an alarming level which calls for urgent medical attention and focus from medical authorities such as FOMUOC and SLMA. Beta diabetic shoes, produced by D. Samson Industries (Pvt) Ltd, are specially designed shoes intended to offer protection for diabetic feet and reduce the risk of skin breakdown, primarily in case of poor circulation, neuropathy and foot abnormalities.

Beta diabetic shoes are designed with a protective interior made with soft material and with no stitching, as sometimes even the smallest prominence can irritate and cause skin breakdown in diabetic foot. The top of the shoe is soft and stretchable to suit tender and deformed feet.

The continuous improvement and development of the beta brand diabetic footwear will be undertaken with technical advice, research and support from the Faculty of Medicine University of Colombo. With the added advice and consultation of the NIROGI Lanka project of the Sri Lanka Medical Association, this footwear will be of optimal use to diabetic patients.

Dipra Engineering installs passenger elevator to Fatima Church, Maradana

Dipra Engineering installs passenger elevator to Fatima Church, Maradana

Rev. Fr. Srian Ranasinghe, Managing Director Dipra, D. D. Anton.and other officials at the event

The Oblate Service Center of Fatima Church Premises, Maradana, Colombo 10 was under the requirement for an Elevator to ease their travel in more time efficient and safe method. Dipra were able to provide their best and most suitable solution to the Church to fulfill their requirement easily and successfully by installing a Passenger Elevator.

“This project has been a very special and challenging job to Dipra and we are extremely grateful for this opportunity the Church has given us. It was a privilege for Dipra to be a part of this Project. We would like to thank Rev. Fr. Srian Ranasinghe, for visiting us to discuss the requirement, and also for trusting us with our service which made it more successful.” said Managing Director, Dipra, D. D. Anton.

“We also like to Thank Architect, Harsha Peramunugama, who has been with us from the beginning till the end of this project. He was a very encouraging and supportive hand for us and the team to complete this project. Finally, a special thanks to our Installation team as well as other teams at every level for their hard work and continuous support.”

Dipra Engineers (Pvt) Ltd, a leading company with expertise in the manufacture of material hoists since 1999, with the expansion to numerous fields such as the supply, installation and commissioning of steam boilers, a wide range of passenger lifts and home lifts, EOT cranes, hydraulic lifters, dock levelers, a full range of manual and electric hoists, construction hoists, dockyard ship building shed travelers, car parking systems and dumbwaiters.

SLT-MOBITEL secures hat-trick at Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award

SLT-MOBITEL secures hat-trick at Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award

Dr. Ananda Mallawatantri (Head of Judging Panel), Priyantha Fernandez (Chief Operating Officer/SLT) , Kiththi Perera (Chief Executive Officer/SLT) Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya (Chairman/Ceylon Chamber of Commerce) at the event

SLT-MOBITEL, the National ICT and Mobile Service Provider was included among the Top Ten Corporate Citizens of Sri Lanka at the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award 2020 which was organized by the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently. SLT-MOBITEL also received a Category Award for Economic Contribution and a Sector Award for “Other “Sector.

The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce is the nation’s premier business chamber and conducts the Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award to recognize and reward local corporate entities for efforts made in sustainability and implementation, on new initiatives and improvements to existing activities carried out during the financial year in consideration.

The impact and implications of these initiatives on Environmental, Social, Economic and Compliance factors were evaluated by an eminent multi-disciplinary panel in several stages prior to identifying the winners.

Commenting on the achievements, Kiththi Perera, CEO of Sri Lanka Telecom PLC stated, “As a responsible organisation, SLT-MOBITEL’s growth has followed a sustainability driven strategy, by way of adopting digital solutions wherever possible, and reducing our carbon footprint in the process. At a time when we are on an ambitious drive to bring our customers closer to world-class services and innovative solutions, we are humbled by this recognition of our responsibility as a corporate citizen. These awards continue to uplift us as a group to keep on moving forward with our endeavours, sustainably.”

SLT-MOBITEL received the award for Economic Contribution as a result of initiatives that were conducted towards helping to generate more jobs in the market whilst also facilitating the digital transformation across remote regions of the country. SLT- MOBITEL has been instrumental in supporting the economic and social development of the public through the introduction of rural credit and SME and micro-finance programs which were designed to uplift rural economies.

The company was also recognized under the ‘Sector Based Sustainability Champions’ category, where entities that have displayed best sustainability performance in the sectors these corporates represent are rewarded.

The Best Corporate Citizen Sustainability Award gives participants the opportunity to highlight innovative approaches that has been carried out within their organisations and wit their clients.

 

SLIM launches SME Development Awards

SLIM launches SME Development Awards

Panel Blue Print Committee Member, Dinesh Nalliah, Head of Blue Print/ Head of Jury, Nandana Wickramage, President SLIM,Roshan Fernando, Vice President SLIM, Thilanka Abeywardena, Blue Print Committee Member, Ravi Bamunusinghe, Project Chairman for SLIM Sustainability and SLIM SME Development Awards, Asanka Perera at the event

Small Business Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of the Sri Lankan economy and many SMEs took a hit following the pandemic. SMEs provide 45% of the employment and contributes to 52% of the Gross Domestic Production (GDP) of the country. Having recognized that the main drawback of the SME sector is the lack of knowledge in marketing, the Sri Lanka Institute of Marketing (SLIM) actively promotes marketing skills as a driving force to enhance business and national value.

The SLIM SME Development Awards is a celebration organized under SLIM’s ‘Restart Sri Lanka’ initiation, to reward the outstanding efforts of SMEs in the marketing, branding and sales of their enterprises. The Restart Sri Lanka Initiative commenced in conjunction with the Prime Minister’s office to provide the impetus for Sri Lankan businesses to reinvigorate the economy by facilitating the reengineering of multiple segments of the economy to sustain their operations.

The SLIM SME Development Awards was introduced at a press brief that took place at Earl’s Court, Cinnamon Grand on the 25th of March 2021. The panellists consisted of Roshan Fernando, President of SLIM, Thilanka Abeywardena, Vice President of SLIM, Asanka Perera, the Project Chairman and Nandana Wickramage, the Head of Blue Print and Head of Jury.

Launching of the website by immediate Past President SLIM Pradeep Edward and, President SLIM - Roshan Fernando  

Commenting on the awards, Roshan Fernando, President of SLIM said, “The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic caused much disruption of daily routines and businesses of all magnitudes. A majority of Sri Lankan businesses took a hit during this time as everything came to a standstill. Understanding this, SLIM initiated an award show dedicated to the endeavours of small business enterprises for the first time in Sri Lanka. We are proud to introduce the SLIM SME Development Awards and we hope it encourages SMEs to rise to, and overcome the challenges that they face on a daily basis. They play an undeniably important role in the development of our country and therefore, facilitating their continuous development is our priority.”

SLIM has made continuous efforts in this regard to encourage marketing, sales and branding that will pave the way to sustain more SMEs, and progress forward to becoming main stream businesses with standards, through their SME Development Awards.

In spite of the challenges, businesses need to thrive in the long-run, overcoming obstacles and propelling themselves and the economy towards a better future.

 

Fitch Ratings: Disclosure statement

Fitch Ratings assigned a point-in time private National Long-Term Rating of ‘AA(lka)’/Stable to Sri Lanka-based Ceat Kelani Holdings (Private) Limited (CKH) on February 3, 2021.

The rating expired on March 1, 2021 and Fitch no longer provides ratings or analytical coverage of CKH beyond March 1, 2021. This disclosure is made in response to the publication of the private rating letter by Kelani Tyres PLC on March 26, 2021.

Huawei posts revenue of US $ 136.7 bn for 2020

Huawei posts revenue of US $ 136.7 bn for 2020

Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman

Huawei released its 2020 Annual Report yesterday and though the growth slowed, the company’s business performance was largely in line with forecast. Huawei’s sales revenue in 2020 rounded off at US $ 136.7 billion (CNY 891.4 billion), up 3.8%year-on-year, and its net profit reached US $ 9.9 billion (CNY 64.6 billion), up 3.2% year-on-year.Despite operational difficulties brought about by US sanctions in 2019 and 2020, Huawei has continued to invite KPMG to independently and objectively audit our financial statements.

In 2020, Huawei’s carrier business continued to ensure the stable operations of more than 1,500 networks across more than 170 countries and regions, which helped support telework, online learning, and online shopping throughout COVID-19 lockdowns. Over the past year, Huawei’s enterprise business stepped up efforts to develop innovative scenario-based solutions for different industriesand create a digital ecosystem that thrives on joint creation and shared success. During the pandemic, Huawei provided technical expertise and solutions that were vital in the fight against the virus. “Over the past year we’ve held strong in the face ofadversity,” said Ken Hu, Huawei’s Rotating Chairman. “We’ve kept innovating to create value for our customers, to help fight the pandemic, and to support both economic recovery and social progress around the world” Huawei recognizes the importance of creating shared value for society as a whole, and is working together with partners to support broader economic, social, and environmental goals for shared progress and prosperity.

To boost the economic recovery and cultivate the digital ecosystem, Huawei launched the Spark program in Singapore in 2020 to provide technical support, funding, consulting and training for tech startups. The 5GEcosystem Innovation Center in Thailand, supported by Huawei, has served as a sandbox for 5G innovations in ASEAN.

 

 

Rupee depreciates to Rs 202.04

Rupee depreciates to Rs 202.04

The Sri Lankan rupee has further depreciated to Rs 202.04 against the US dollar.

Meanwhile, the buying rate of a rupee stoods at Rs.197.62 against the US Dollar.

This is the highest selling rate of the US Dollar in the history of Sri Lanka.

Tuesday, March 30, 2021

UCL students excel with more Monash Global Awards of Excellence

UCL students excel with more Monash Global Awards of Excellence

Gihan Silva (CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER) and Dr. Dhananjay Kulkarni (DEAN OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS)

Universal College Lanka (UCL) is the exclusive partner forMonash education in Sri Lanka, providing a guaranteed pathway to the prestigious Monash University in Australia and Malaysia through the MonashUniversity Foundation Year and the Monash College Diploma programmes.

UCL students have excelled at the recently completed semester examinations of the MCD Programme (Monash University Year 1equivalent), achieving Monash Global Awards of Excellence at programme, course-level topping all three streams - Business, Engineering and Science, emerging as Best Performers by securing the top exit score in each course, prior to transitioning to Year 2 at Monash University to complete their degree.Diploma (1 st year degree equivalent) Business stream Srikanth Kaushal, Engineering stream Savindi jayasinghe, science stream Bhagya Abeygunasekara, Srikanth Kaushal, Bhagya Abeygunasekara and Savindi Jayasinghe.In addition, UCL students have secured 43 Monash GlobalAwards of Excellence at unit/ subject level at the same examination. The seawards are presented to the students who achieve the highest marks in their respective units/ subjects at the examination conducted simultaneously acrossall Monash partners internationally, including those studying in Australia.

Bhagya Abeygunasekara             Savindi Jayasinghe             Srikanth Kaushal

These high performing UCL students are eligible to apply for the International Merit Scholarships and Special Study Grants upon transition to Further, UCL alumni have gone on to excel at Monash University with Chamalka Perera achieving the award for the Most Outstanding Undergraduate Performance with a First Class in Bachelor of Mechatronics Engineering Honours at Monash University Malaysia in June 2020. UCL Alumni Framjee Hathy achieved the Best Business Graduate award in December 2019 followed by the Best Honours Graduate award in December 2020 at Monash University Malaysia. Gihan Silva, Chief Executive Officer stated, “It is momentous that UCL has been successful in garnering a total of 295 Monash Global Awards of Excellence and producing the Best Graduates at Monash University, which is a testament to its uncompromising commitment to achieving academic excellence and offering quality transnational higher education to discerning students in Sri Lanka.”

Dr. Dhananjay Kulakarni, Dean of Academic Affairs stated,“The credit goes to the brilliant students and the highly committed, qualified and experienced UCL faculty including Monash University alumni, for collaborating towards these stupendous achievements. The PHD and Masters qualified UCL Faculty including Monash alumni is probably the best for a higher education provider of this magnitude in Sri Lanka. UCL lecturers are carefully selected and have attained strong track records in teaching as well as in research pertaining to their area of expertise. Our lecturers adopt innovative and interactive teaching and learning techniques to prepare them to excel in a world class university like Monash.”

KIU to hold 4th convocation on April 4

KIU to hold 4th convocation on April 4

 KIU will hold its fourth convocation on April 4, 2021 at the BMICH Main Auditorium under the patronage of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka.

KIU is a leading non-statedegree awarding higher educational institute accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and recognized by the University Grants Commission of Sri Lanka.

The vision of KIU is to enable students to experience an unparalleled educational journey that is intellectually,socially, and personally transformative, empowering with the highest quality appropriate to global needs and with the mission to contributing to social equity through the pursuit of education, learning research and innovation at the highest international levels of excellence.KIU offers a string of degree programmes, which include the Bachelor of Science Honors in Nursing degree program, Bachelor of Science Honors in Biomedical Science degree programme, Bachelor of Science Honors in Accounting, Bachelor of Science Honors in Human Resource Management, Bachelor of Science Honors in Marketing, and Bachelor of Science Honors in Psychology. Furthermore, moving beyond the level of undergraduate education, KIU now offers postgraduate education too.

Masters programs in Nursing (Master of Nursing Education, Master of Nursing Management and Master of Science in Nursing) accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and recognized by the University Grants Commission are offered at KIU; to ensure continuous education among the nursing graduates. KIU is the first and only university that offers postgraduate degrees in the field of nursing.

Nursing professionals who have obtained a Bachelor of Science Honors Degree in Nursing from a recognized university (SLQF 6 or equivalent) are eligible to enroll in these Masters’Degrees. In addition to that, Master of Business Administration degree is also offered by KIU.KIU is equipped with a quality curriculum and a well-qualified panel of lecturers to guide students in academics and research.

Dialog Finance streamlines operations

Dialog Finance streamlines operations

Dialog Finance PLC, the financial Service provider subsidiary of the Dialog Axiata Group has streamlined its operations. Accordingly, the number of employees at the organization has gone down from 164 to 44 people.

The company still maintains 2 branches. The company with the financial support of the parent has met the regulatory capital requirements of the Central Bank.

The company posted a loss of Rs 99 million for the year ended December 2020. Equity analysts note that Dialog has been aggressively investing in payments processing infrastructure with one of the fastest-growing networks of applications, users, and merchants.

The company is set to aggressively expand in the near future.

The company has obtained the services of former Nations Trust Bank CEO Renuka Fernando as the Groups Chief Digital Services Officer.

Historic Amazon union drive set to conclude

Historic Amazon union drive set to conclude Officials are set to reveal the outcome of a high-profile battle in Bessemer, Alabama that could establish the first unionised Amazon warehouse in the US.

Ballots will start being counted on Tuesday after more than a month of voting ends on Monday.

The fight is a key test for Amazon, which has faced criticism around the world over its working conditions during the pandemic.

The e-commerce giant has fiercely opposed the effort. If it loses, it would be forced to enter formal negotiations with representatives from the Retail Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) over a contract for nearly 6,000 staff at the warehouse, located just outside Birmingham, a city in the north central region of Alabama. With both sides likely to challenge some of the votes, the results of the ballot are not expected to be known for some time.

Amazon says it offers competitive pay and benefits. It has also tried to persuade workers that the union would not be able to win more for its members, even while the union collects hundreds of dollars in dues payments.

But union organisers have said staff are fed up with the relentless and impersonal treatment they receive. BBC

Lankaโ€™s business sector has been resilient

Lanka’s business sector has been resilient

First copy of PwC-FCCISL Sri Lanka Business Resurgence Survey Report, released by FCCISL presented to Minister of Trade, Bandula Gunawardana.

PwC-FCCISL Sri Lanka Business Resurgence Survey Report, a milestone study to address the post-pandemic challenges faced by local businesses, was officially released by Federation of the Chambers of Commerce in Sri Lanka (FCCISL) with the presentation of the first copy to Bandula Gunawardana, Minister of Trade.

The report is the fruition of a collaboration that had begun between FCCISL and PricewaterhouseCoopers, Sri Lanka (PwC Sri Lanka) that led to an island-wide survey conducted among registered businesses of all sizes during the third-quarter of 2020. The report is based on industry feedback and responses from businesses across diverse industry sectors and operating scales,broadly representative of the overall industry landscape of the country. “89% of respondents across all sectors experienced adverse impacts following the pandemic, however the key challenges, coping strategies adopted along with future support required saw marked differences once you started looking at different sectors in the economy,” said Lasanga Abeysuriya, Executive Director, PwC Sri Lanka. Loss of customer sales and inadequate cashflow for working capital requirements were the most common challenges for microand small businesses, whilst reduction in overall funding available and supply chain challenges were key concerns for medium and large businesses respectively.

Executive Director,   PwC Sri Lanka, Lasanga Abeysuriya, President, FCCISL, Shirley Jayawardena, Senior Vice President, FCCISL, Keerthi Gunawardane and Director & Project Chairperson–Business Resurgence Study, FCCISL Ruwan De Silva      

The study provided evidence for the further support needed to develop a strong export-oriented economy, with most businesses in the microand SME segment currently focused on only serving domestic markets. Contrastingly, over two-thirds of the large businesses served export markets.Key challenges faced by export-oriented businesses were order cancellations,loss of customers, supply chain disruptions to source production inputs and working capital shortages. Despite the headwinds, local businesses have shown tremendous resilience to remain open and protect jobs. “Much fewer companies had permanently wound-up or were in the process of winding-up due to the pandemic-induced challenges when comparing with some of the regional markets in Asia” said Abeysuriya. Having flexibility to scale down operations and reduce costs, finding alternative supply sources and renegotiating with financiers and suppliers were amongst common coping mechanisms adopted for businesses to navigate these challenging times. More businesses have relied on family and friends for support – both financial and other – during the current crisis. Thirty-percentof businesses relied on financial support from family and friends whilst eighteen-percent of businesses received other support such as no low cost labour, transportation, work premises from family and friends. Contrastingly, less than a quarter of the businesses had benefited from the Central Bank announced refinance schemes administered through the banks and financial institutions; eleven-percent of businesses were still awaiting approval /disbursements from such schemes as at the time of the survey whilst another eleven-percent were not even aware of financial assistance schemes available.

Source: PwC-FCCISL Business Resurgence Survey Report

There is a silver lining; businesses have also identified opportunities, despite all the challenges, with fifty-five percent of businesses seeing immediate new opportunities following the enforced COVID-19 associated movement and business restrictions. Businesses have looked at pivoting or transforming operations as well as seeking new opportunities and collaborations to utilise available resources and capabilities. Looking at business strategies and priorities before and since the COVID-19 pandemic, growth and expansion have taken a relative backseat, whilst those with the capacity to do so have preferred seeking growth outside the country. “We see a change in priority for businesses to look at lateral diversification more favorably. However, businesses also seem more comfortable to pursue an organic growth path, perhaps due to lack of confidence or capacity to explore joint ventures or M&A routes that can be more effective and faster, particularly where new skills and expertise is required” said Abeysuriya. Over half the businesses have sought various forms of financial support remedies as the most urgent short-term requirement to recover from current challenges. Most common amongst these include financial grants for business transformation and technology adoption, collateral free credit through a government-backed loan guarantee scheme, faster access to cheaper working capital financing and further extensions to credit moratoriums. In the medium-term, businesses have identified areas that can increase local market competitiveness such as reducing utility costs for industrial and commercial establishments,simplifying government services, improving the quality and quantity of semiskilled to meet the requirements of multiple industries, and improving the access to public infrastructure at competitive costs in order promote more private sector participation. Ruwan De Silva, Director and Project Chairperson for the Business Resurgence Study, FCCISL said “The study has provided a good baseline assessment of our local industry standing and gives a strong platform for future action.” FCCISL has indicated future plans to engage in a series ofsector focused initiatives, with greater support from relevant sector participants, to drive a balanced, multi-sector economic revival in the country.

“With the current findings and other on-going studies to be conducted, we hope to engage with all our affiliated stakeholders that represent diverse industry sectors and professional bodies, regional business chambers as well as the public sector and government to jointly discuss,develop and implement necessary interventions to support the faster recovery of the local economy” said De Silva. “We will work with the Government and interested parties to seek support from the international community, including bilateral and multilateral lending and development agencies, to address some of the priority areas such as market development and capacity building to enable the growth of local business and economy,” De Silva further added.

 

Pelwatte offers Avurudu season discounts

Pelwatte Dairy, the home-grown leader in dairy products is offering exclusive discounts for its most sought after Pelwatte Butter and Pelwatte Ghee at Keells Super Markets and selected retail outlets islandwide until April 30.

This Avurudu Season, as Sri Lankans celebrate the most anticipated season of the year with their families, friends and loved ones, Pelwatte announces its discounts of 10% on its Ghee and Butter products at Selected Super Market Chains and retailers.Thereby allowing Sri Lankans to celebrate this Sinhala and Tamil New Year while indulging to their sweet meats and tables of their choice.

Pelwatte can be considered as one of the healthiest products for consumers of all ages as most stringent quality standards are followed during production of Pelwatte products while no artificial preservatives etc. are added to increase shelf-life.

Commenting on the offer, Chaminda Pathirana, Manager Modern Trade said, “We are indeed very privileged to be able to offer exclusive offers on our most demanded products during this Avurudu season. We believe that the unmatched quality and price will surely help our consumers, while also supporting the dairy farming community.”

Pelwatte butter is produced using the fat from locally sourced milk, is high in nutrients and healthy as well;the butter is made from the fat in fresh milk with no added preservatives. Fresh milk contains about 4-5 % fat and the process of butter production tends to increase the fat percentage so in order to control the fat percentage a standardization process is used which is also another reason as to why Pelwatte Butter is considered all-natural.

In addition, Pelwatte has a broad ice cream profile and has introduced whole new ranges, under premium range and the economy range.

Pelwatte’s extensive product range is used in kitchens of many leading star hotels. Amongst the product ranges that are supplied to the hospitality industry, Pelwatte Ghee is used to prepare main courses from Thai, Indian, Indonesian, Middle Eastern and Malaysian cuisines.

Pelwatte Dairy has always been intently focused on meeting the country’s domestic milk demand while uplifting the socio-economic status of local dairy farmers.

DI Leather e-opens at Bambalapitiya after refurbishment

DI Leather e-opens at Bambalapitiya after refurbishment

Pictures by by Sumanachandra Ariyawansa

The recently refurbished flagship store of Ceylon Leather Products Manufacturing Limited, DI Leather was re-opened to the public at Bambalapitiya recently. The company has invested Rs. 25 million on this refurbishment and also to buy new machines to produce high-quality genuine leather footwear and handbags in-house. The production has now started at its production facility.

Due to the company’s special yet unique production techniques, DI’s genuine leather products have acquired the ability to compete with imported real leather products from all around the world. The company’s main target of this investment is not only to save a huge amount of foreign exchange but also enabling its customers purchase high-quality real leather products which are proudly made in Sri Lanka. The DI’s other branches are located at Pettah, Kiribathgoda and Belummahara (Factory Outlet). A brand new branch at Nawala is soon to be opened.

DI, Chairman Dr. Sarath Paranawithana, Deputy Chairman Waruna Maliduwapathirana, Managing Director Sithendra Senarathne, Director of Finance Jayantha Munasinghe, Director Shehani Maliduwapathirana, General Manager Thimira Liyanage and Marketing Manager Vipul Madanayake also took part in the event.

 

ASUS launches ZenBook Flip 13 (UX363) in Sri Lanka

ASUS launches ZenBook Flip 13 (UX363) in Sri Lanka

ASUS Sri Lanka has launched the distinctly elegant ZenBook Flip 13 (UX363)–now verified on the Intel Evo Platform for an exceptional mobile experience, with exciting updates including an OLED touchscreen, 11th Generation Intel Core processors and Intel Iris X graphics.

ZenBook Flip 13 is the world’s thinnest convertible laptop to include full-size HDMI and USB Type-A ports as well as two of the latest Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports for uncompromised on-the-go connectivity. Silky-smooth performance is ensured by matching the new processors and graphics with up to 16 GB RAM and up to a 1 TB PCIe 3.0 SSD.

The WiFi 6in ZenBook Flip 13 lets users enjoy smooth streaming of 4K UHD online videos and data transfers at faster-than-wired speeds of up to 2.4 Gbps. WiFi performance is optimized with ASUS WiFi Master Premium technology which includes ASUS WiFi Stabilizer to filter out wireless interference and ASUS WiFi SmartConnect to seamlessly connect to the best WiFi signal and known mobile hotspots.

Measuring just 13.9 mm thin and weighing only 1.3 kg, the compact ZenBook Flip 13 combines ultimate portability with supreme versatility

Artists, photographers and designers will love the possibilities offered by the Nano Edge display when combining with the optional ASUS Pen and Windows Ink. The newly designed ASUS Pen has 4096 pressure levels, ensuring enhanced precision and sensitivity for more natural-feeling stylus input making it the perfect choice for casual creativity, note-taking and intuitive editing in any supported app.

ZenBook Flip 13 also features the dual-function touchpad ASUS Number Pad 2.0, which is 30% larger than the previous model and incorporates an LED-illuminated numeric keypad for easy data entry.

With a high-capacity 67 Wh battery that can deliver up to 14 hours of operation on a single charge, ZenBook Flip 13 is perfect for today’s work-anywhere lifestyles. ZenBook Flip 13 supports fast charging with the supplied 65-watt charger, and ASUS USB-C Easy Charge allows users to take advantage of a wide range of standard USB-C or USB-C Power Delivery (PD) chargers.

iPay Wasi Season 2 concludes with success

iPay Wasi Season 2 concludes with success

The iPay Wasi Season 2 Draw concluded successfully at the LOLC Head Office premises in Rajagiriya recently with 3 lucky iPay users emerging as winners.

The draw took place in the presence of Dharamasiri Kumarathunga - Director, Payments and Settlements Department of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), Channa de Silva - General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, LankaClear (Pvt) Ltd, Conrad Dias – Director / Chief Executive Officer, LOLC Finance PLC and Kapila Jayawardena, Group Managing Director/CEO of the LOLC Group. The winners were selected randomly during the draw and they walked away with exciting cash prizes. Senior officials of LOLC Finance PLC also graced the occasion.

Prizes were given away to iPay users who performed the most number of transactions during the months of December 2020 and January this year. Users were required to introduce iPay to their friends and family members to stand a chance to win Rs. 250,000 in cash. Another 30 lucky winners were given cash prizes for introducing iPay to a minimum of 5 new users.

MD/CEO LOLC Group Kapila Jayawardena and  Director CEO LOLC Finance
Conrad Dias

Dharamasiri Kumarathunga, Director, Payments & Settlements Department of CBSL said, “In terms of digital payments and transactions, Sri Lanka is far behind many of its neighbouring countries and there is much more to do in order to develop the country’s payments and settlements system. Several committees have been appointed to steer these areas. I must state that the initiatives of iPay and LOLC Finance in digitalisation and automation is truly admirable and many other institutions can learn from this proven model”.

Conrad Dias, Director / Chief Executive Officer of LOLC Finance PLC said, “iPay is the number one payments platform now in terms of the number of transactions and customer acquisitions and iPay has been maintaining this position month on month continuously. iPay is an ecosystem, it’s not just a payment app. We have already launched this platform in Cambodia and hope to launch it very soon in Myanmar and Pakistan as well”.

Kapila Jayawardena, Group Managing Director/CEO of the LOLC Group said, “We have witnessed exponential growth in the number of iPay transactions over the last few months and that is because of the strong efforts put in to drive this platform collectively by the staff of LOLC. There is immense potential for future growth for iPay both here and overseas and as a group we remain committed to greater automation and digitalisation to facilitate customers and streamline operations for greater efficiency”.

With an architecture that allows easy integration with any system, iPay is a simple, easy to use real-time payment platform for everyone. It has been designed with a host of features, giving the user a unique, one of a kind transaction experience.

 

ComBank โ€˜Double Wasiโ€™ offers remittance customers to win Rs 2.2 mn.

ComBank ‘Double Wasi’ offers remittance customers to win Rs 2.2 mn.

The upcoming ‘Avurudu’ season will bring good fortune every day to recipients of remittances via the Commercial Bank of Ceylon, with the launch of the Bank’s ‘Double Wasi’ promotion offering 22 customers the opportunity to double the amount they receive, up to a maximum of Rs 100,000 each.

On each of the 22 days ending April 15, one lucky remittance customer of the Bank stands the chance of winning a cash prize, from the total of Rs 2.2 million set aside for prizes, the Bank said.

Recipients of money via ComBank RemitPlus the remittance services of the Bank and customers receiving money through the Bank’s remittance partners such as MoneyGram, Western Union and Ria Money Transfer will automatically be entered into the draw.

Every customer who receives remittances directly to a Commercial Bank Account during the promotion period and those who collect the remitted cash from a branch close to them will be presented one opportunity to enter the ‘Double Wasi’ draw, the Bank said. Additionally, holders of a Commercial Bank Remittance Card – a branded Debit cum ATM Card – will have the privilege of doubling their chances of winning, as the Bank will enter their names twice into the draw on the day they receive the remittance.

Further to the promotion, those who receive direct remittances via Commercial Bank will enjoy an additional Rs 2 on the conversion ofevery United States Dollar or the equivalent in the currency they receive, the Bank said.

Commercial Bank launched the promotion to encourage direct remittances to the Bank. The lucky winners of the daily draws will be presented their cash prizes after the conclusion of the promotion.

Commercial Bank is one of the most active players in Sri Lanka in the field of remittances.

Commercial Bank is the first Sri Lankan Bank to be listed among the Top 1000 Banks of the World and the only Sri Lankan bank to be so listed for 10 years consecutively.

Huawei, Browns Investments unveils IdeaHub Smart Screen

Huawei, Browns Investments unveils IdeaHub Smart Screen

Huawei, the World’s leading ICT solutions provider and Browns Group Browns Investments PLC together in partnership recently unveiled the latest cutting-edge productivity tool IdeaHub Smart Screen to the Sri Lankan Market.

Huawei Ideahub Smart Screen is a product series that can create an all-scenario smart office for the cloud era, and boost production efficiency for enterprises. The launch of this new product to Sri Lanka was held with the participation of industry leaders from education, small &medium enterprises and Banking, Financial Services & Insurance (BFSI) sectors at Hilton Colombo.

“IdeaHub is the latest smart productivity tool for the modern workplace designed to enhance the way teams work together. Our product series includes the IdeaHub S and IdeaHub Pro. This intelligent office endpoint integrates various functions, including multi-screen collaboration between mobiles and PCs, interactive whiteboard, intelligent handwriting, remote collaboration, and video conferencing” Deputy CEO of Huawei Sri Lanka Ricardo Xiao said.

“This is a key component of our new smart office strategy, which will guide Huawei’s innovation in the years to come as we seek to deliver superior products to our customersenabling them to take full advantage of our increasingly digital world” Ricardo said.

A product that brings up new creative solutions for various industries, Huawei Enterprise Smart Screen IdeaHub is a smart terminal that integrates smart writing, ultra-clear screen, video conferencing, and open office application market. It is a new terminal for enterprise team collaboration. It’s also a new category, which can meet the smart office needs of enterprise conference rooms, manager rooms, open office areas, and other scenarios. IdeaHub is an innovative and a simple product series designunlike traditional complex hardware, with integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology.

As an essential productive tool for modern day office environment, Huawei IdeaHub supports Huawei Cloud Meeting and third party mainstream cloud video conferencing services and platforms, which greatly simplifies the complex process of cloud video conferencing. It delivers better meeting experience with full 1080p HD-4K content sharing.

Recently IdeaHub received the Red Dot Award 2020 due to its sleek, contemporary, user-centric design. It is designed to suit any environment, effortlessly turning meeting rooms, open office areas, executive rooms, and home offices into smart spaces.

The Huawei IdeaHubis available for demonstration in both Huawei and Browns Investments’ offices in Sri Lanka and anyone interested in having this new smart tool can easily visit Huawei or Browns Investments offices upon making an appointment.

Pussalla recognized among top ten companies for tenth consecutive year

Pussalla recognized among top ten companies for tenth consecutive year

Pussalla Chairman, Philip J Wewita and Managing Director, Dilshan J Wewita receive the top ten award from Minister of Industries Wimal Weerawansa at CNCI achievers awards 2020. Pictures by Saliya Ruapsinghe.

Pussalla Meat Producers, the only local company having total vertical integration in the poultry industry, was awarded among the ‘Top Ten’ companies for the tenth consecutive year at the recently concluded CNCI Achiever Awards 2020. The CNCI Awards are organized by the Ceylon National Chamber of Industries. The company was also honoured with a National level Silver award in the extra-large category.

This continuous recognition demonstrates the business excellence and growth that the company is maintaining over the decades.

This awards ceremony was organized for the 19th consecutive year to promote industrial growth in the country by recognizing and rewarding those industrialists who have excelled in their business processes. These awards were presented after scrutiny of multiple dimensions including; turnover, value addition, productivity, employment statistics and welfare of employees, statutory responsibility, corporate planning, research and development, quality assurance, environment and social responsibility, and occupational health and safety.

Commenting on the awards won for the 10th time consecutively, Pussalla Chairman Philip J. Wewita said “It is a remarkable occasion to be among the Top Ten companies at the CNCI awards for the tenth consecutive year from 2010 onwards. We firmly believe that this type of recognition motivates industries to grow in all aspects and not just limited to financial growth. We are humble yet proud because we were able to demonstrate the true meaning of such awards by managing hard and harsh times productively. We have developed both the capacity and the capability of the company.”

Ceylinco Life celebrates socially-distanced awards ceremony

Ceylinco Life celebrates socially-distanced awards ceremony

Ceylinco Life Chairman R. Renganathan and Managing Director and CEO Thushara Ranasinghe present the awards to the top winners at the Company’s Annual Awards ceremony

Ceylinco Life celebrated 17 consecutive years of market leadership recently, with a scaled down awards presentation watched live via Zoom at the Company’s branches in Sri Lanka.

Awards were presented to Ceylinco Life’s top-performing sales professionals and staff at an event held the BMICH, celebrating a year of challenges overcome by commitment, innovation and determination while adhering to strict health protocols.

Among those honoured were 82 that were inducted to the Company’s High Flyers Club, the pinnacle of achievement at Ceylinco Life, the selection criteria for which includes key performance indicators such as new business generated, collections, persistency among others; and 135 members of the Ceylinco Life sales team that qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) in 2020, one of the most difficult years on record.

Notably, two of these MDRT qualifiers achieved the elite ‘Top of the Table’ (ToT) status, while four others were elevated to MDRT ‘Court of the Table’ status, and the 135 qualifiers represented the highest number of MDRT members produced by Ceylinco Life in a single year, a testament to the ability of the sales team to achieve growth even in times of adversity.

Staff members, sales consultants, unit heads and branch heads from the Ceylinco Life head office and more than 270 branches in every district of the country were recognised for their contribution to the company’s performance in 2020, with many top performers winning multiple awards.

The top award winners at this year’s annual awards of Ceylinco Life were: Overall Best Branch Head Mr S. Venukaran of the Batticaloa 04 branch; Overall Best Unit Head R.P. Edirisinghe of the Nugegoda 01 branch; and Overall Best Sales Consultant A. I. P. Manjula of the Ambalantota 2 branch.

Ceylinco Life ended 2020 with assets of Rs 150 billion, total income of Rs 36.9 billion, premium income of Rs 22.1 billion, a Life Fund of Rs 106.7 billion, an investment portfolio with a value in excess of Rs 133.7 billion and pre-tax profit of Rs 8.7 billion.

NSB posts steady results amidst woes

NSB posts steady results amidst woes

Despite the heightened uncertainty due to the impact of Covid-19 which has triggered a wide range of shocks on the Bank, employees, customers and economy, National Savings Bank (NSB) continued focus on financial resilience enabling them to remain strong and achieve a solid performance posting a Profit Before Tax (PBT) increase by 49.5% to Rs.15.6 billion from Rs.10.5 billion in 2019.

Commenting on the performance, NSB Chairperson, Keasila Jayawardena stated, “While the figures demonstrate the solid performance of the Bank, a deeper dive into the numbers must consider the context of the year. During the first wave of COVID-19 infection in late March 2020, the banking service was declared an essential service during the Covid-19 and the ensuing lock-downs, all the Bank’s branches across the country were kept open to offer an uninterrupted service to our customers. The Bank also allocated 3 mobile units to provide its customers with service at their doorstep.”

“The Government has responded with necessary measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. The Bank also took part in implementing government-led relief measures by providing the Debt moratorium scheme aimed at supporting Covid-19 affected businesses and individuals. Accordingly, the moratorium has been given to 90% of the retail loan portfolio at the concessionary rate of 7.0% and the payments were deferred until the end of the loan period.

NSB General Manager, CEO, Ajith Peiris said, “Total asset base of the Bank grew by 17.8% to Rs. 1.4 trillion as at December 31, 2020 from Rs. 1.2 trillion as at December 31, 2019. The Bank recorded its highest ever Profit Before Tax and Profit After Tax in 2020, both of which were aided by the Government’s stimulus initiatives introduced in late 2019.

Against the backdrop of Covid-19 impact on the economic activities, The Bank’s Profit Before Tax was Rs. 15.6 billion a 49.5% increase from Rs. 10.5 billion in 2019 and the Bank’s Profit After Tax of Rs. 10.1 billion recorded a 58.4% increase from Rs. 6.4 billion in 2019. A dividend of Rs. 1billion was paid for the financial year under review.

The Bank reported a gross Income of Rs. 127.5 billion for 2020, achieving a growth of 4.6% mainly driven by the 3.2% rise in Interest Income, the largest component, to Rs. 122.5 billion as well as Fee and Commission Income which has increased by 114.9% to Rs. 2.7 billion compared to last year.

The increase in interest income along with decrease in interest expenses resulted in a 21 % surge in Net Interest Income, rising to Rs. 34.9 billion in 2020 over 2019.

Consequently, Net Interest Margin improved to 2.77% during the year from 2.63% reported a year ago.

The Bank’s profitability was further enhanced by removal of the Nation Building Tax (NBT) and Debt Repayment Levy (DRL) on financial services and favourable changes to the deposit mix with the savings deposits to total deposits ratio increasing to 22.6% in 2020 from 21.5% in 2019, providing the Bank with a source of low-cost funding.

The Bank successfully improved its cost to income ratio (without taxes) to 39.1% in 2020 from the year 2019 through various cost savings strategies and initiatives. Nevertheless, the highest-ever profit was achieved after making an impairment provision of Rs. 4.9 Bn., a 761.8% increase over 2019 reflected the elevated risk in the loan and advances portfolio and tenuous state of asset quality in the banking sector.

During the year under review, the Bank disbursed Rs. 31.4 Bn. in loans for infrastructure projects to State Owned Enterprises and the Bank also positioned itself to finance further long-term projects in future through diversifying the Bank’s sources of funding. The Bank raised Rs. 5.0 Bn. through the issuance of a perpetual debenture. By enhancing the Bank’s Additional Tier 1 capital, the Bank is well positioned to increase its lending capacities for both government and retail lending.

The retail lending portfolio increased significantly by the end of the December 2020, as the credit demand picked up during the fourth quarter following the Government’s COVID-19 Renaissance Facilities and policy interest rate cuts by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). Total Loans and Advances to increase by 13.7% to Rs. 516.8 Bn. as of December 2020, against the Rs. 454.4 Bn. recorded as at 31 December 2019.

The Bank’s gross NPL ratio increased considerably by 122bps to 2.79% from 1.57% at end 2019 caused by adverse impact of the Covid-19 outbreak on the repayment capacity of the customers amidst the economic stimulus package introduced by the Government. Nevertheless, credit quality of the Bank was maintained in a stable manner, having one of the lowest NPL ratios in the industry, in comparison to the industry average of 4.93% as at the end of 2020

The Bank recorded its highest ever mobilisation of deposits by mobilising Rs. 221.9 Bn. during the year. The Bank’s deposit base increased by 21.7% to record Rs. 1.2 Tn as of end December 2020, compared to Rs. 1.0 Tn. Reported as at 31 December 2019. Despite the low interest rate regime that prevailed during the year, both savings deposits and fixed deposits bases recorded significant growths of 28.1% and 19.9% respectively to reach Rs. 280.0 Bn. and Rs. 957.1 Bn. respectively as at the end of December 2020 on the back of the increased household savings triggered by the pandemic.

The capital position of the Bank remained strong and stood well above the revised minimum statutory requirements imposed by the regulator consequent to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Tier 1 Capital and Total Capital ratios stood at 13.65% and 16.45% respectively at the end of December 2020 well above the statutory requirements of 8.00% and 12.00% respectively. The leverage ratio of 6.64% too was well above the minimum requirement of 3.0%.

He added that NSB remains guided by our essential values and mission amidst the changes and challenges presented by the environment, while the shape of banking will change – and we will adapt to it – our responsibilities and our commitment to our purpose will remain steadfast.

Monday, March 29, 2021

NSB posts steady results amidst woes

NSB posts steady results amidst woes

Despite the heightened uncertainty due to the impact of Covid-19 which has triggered a wide range of shocks on the Bank, employees, customers and economy, National Savings Bank (NSB) continued focus on financial resilience enabling them to remain strong and achieve a solid performance posting a Profit Before Tax (PBT) increase by 49.5% to Rs.15.6 billion from Rs.10.5 billion in 2019.

Commenting on the performance, NSB Chairperson, Keasila Jayawardena stated, “While the figures demonstrate the solid performance of the Bank, a deeper dive into the numbers must consider the context of the year. During the first wave of COVID-19 infection in late March 2020, the banking service was declared an essential service during the Covid-19 and the ensuing lock-downs, all the Bank’s branches across the country were kept open to offer an uninterrupted service to our customers. The Bank also allocated 3 mobile units to provide its customers with service at their doorstep.”

“The Government has responded with necessary measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. The Bank also took part in implementing government-led relief measures by providing the Debt moratorium scheme aimed at supporting Covid-19 affected businesses and individuals. Accordingly, the moratorium has been given to 90% of the retail loan portfolio at the concessionary rate of 7.0% and the payments were deferred until the end of the loan period.

NSB General Manager, CEO, Ajith Peiris said, “Total asset base of the Bank grew by 17.8% to Rs. 1.4 trillion as at December 31, 2020 from Rs. 1.2 trillion as at December 31, 2019. The Bank recorded its highest ever Profit Before Tax and Profit After Tax in 2020, both of which were aided by the Government’s stimulus initiatives introduced in late 2019.

Against the backdrop of Covid-19 impact on the economic activities, The Bank’s Profit Before Tax was Rs. 15.6 billion a 49.5% increase from Rs. 10.5 billion in 2019 and the Bank’s Profit After Tax of Rs. 10.1 billion recorded a 58.4% increase from Rs. 6.4 billion in 2019. A dividend of Rs. 1billion was paid for the financial year under review.

The Bank reported a gross Income of Rs. 127.5 billion for 2020, achieving a growth of 4.6% mainly driven by the 3.2% rise in Interest Income, the largest component, to Rs. 122.5 billion as well as Fee and Commission Income which has increased by 114.9% to Rs. 2.7 billion compared to last year.

The increase in interest income along with decrease in interest expenses resulted in a 21 % surge in Net Interest Income, rising to Rs. 34.9 billion in 2020 over 2019.

Consequently, Net Interest Margin improved to 2.77% during the year from 2.63% reported a year ago.

The Bank’s profitability was further enhanced by removal of the Nation Building Tax (NBT) and Debt Repayment Levy (DRL) on financial services and favourable changes to the deposit mix with the savings deposits to total deposits ratio increasing to 22.6% in 2020 from 21.5% in 2019, providing the Bank with a source of low-cost funding.

The Bank successfully improved its cost to income ratio (without taxes) to 39.1% in 2020 from the year 2019 through various cost savings strategies and initiatives. Nevertheless, the highest-ever profit was achieved after making an impairment provision of Rs. 4.9 Bn., a 761.8% increase over 2019 reflected the elevated risk in the loan and advances portfolio and tenuous state of asset quality in the banking sector.

During the year under review, the Bank disbursed Rs. 31.4 Bn. in loans for infrastructure projects to State Owned Enterprises and the Bank also positioned itself to finance further long-term projects in future through diversifying the Bank’s sources of funding. The Bank raised Rs. 5.0 Bn. through the issuance of a perpetual debenture. By enhancing the Bank’s Additional Tier 1 capital, the Bank is well positioned to increase its lending capacities for both government and retail lending.

The retail lending portfolio increased significantly by the end of the December 2020, as the credit demand picked up during the fourth quarter following the Government’s COVID-19 Renaissance Facilities and policy interest rate cuts by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). Total Loans and Advances to increase by 13.7% to Rs. 516.8 Bn. as of December 2020, against the Rs. 454.4 Bn. recorded as at 31 December 2019.

The Bank’s gross NPL ratio increased considerably by 122bps to 2.79% from 1.57% at end 2019 caused by adverse impact of the Covid-19 outbreak on the repayment capacity of the customers amidst the economic stimulus package introduced by the Government. Nevertheless, credit quality of the Bank was maintained in a stable manner, having one of the lowest NPL ratios in the industry, in comparison to the industry average of 4.93% as at the end of 2020

The Bank recorded its highest ever mobilisation of deposits by mobilising Rs. 221.9 Bn. during the year. The Bank’s deposit base increased by 21.7% to record Rs. 1.2 Tn as of end December 2020, compared to Rs. 1.0 Tn. Reported as at 31 December 2019. Despite the low interest rate regime that prevailed during the year, both savings deposits and fixed deposits bases recorded significant growths of 28.1% and 19.9% respectively to reach Rs. 280.0 Bn. and Rs. 957.1 Bn. respectively as at the end of December 2020 on the back of the increased household savings triggered by the pandemic.

The capital position of the Bank remained strong and stood well above the revised minimum statutory requirements imposed by the regulator consequent to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Tier 1 Capital and Total Capital ratios stood at 13.65% and 16.45% respectively at the end of December 2020 well above the statutory requirements of 8.00% and 12.00% respectively. The leverage ratio of 6.64% too was well above the minimum requirement of 3.0%.

He added that NSB remains guided by our essential values and mission amidst the changes and challenges presented by the environment, while the shape of banking will change – and we will adapt to it – our responsibilities and our commitment to our purpose will remain steadfast.

Regulatory framework to develop boat building industry presented to implementing agencies

Regulatory framework to develop boat building industry presented to implementing agencies

Regulatory framework to develop Sri Lanka’s boat building industry handed over to the Minister of Trade, Dr. Bandula Gunawardena

The regulatory framework to develop Sri Lanka’s boat building industry was officially handed over to the implementing agencies under the patronage of Minister of Trade, Dr. Bandula Gunawardena yesterday, at the Trade Ministry.

Minister Gunawardena remarked that it was imperative for Sri Lanka to pursue a strategy reliant upon product diversification, market diversification and introduction of innovative products to increase the country’s exports and thus, developing an emerging sector like boat building to greater heights aligns perfectly with the required three-pronged strategy.

Meanwhile, State Minister of Boats and Shipping Industry Development, Jayantha Samaraweera extended his appreciation to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) for formulating a strategic framework to develop the boat building industry at a time no one was paying attention to this particular industry during his speech at the event.

“To regulate the boat manufacturing industry, yachting and nautical activities in the country and also to attract more foreign yachts to the Sri Lankan waters, the country was in need of proper registration procedures a regulatory framework and a regulatory body in place encompassing all segments of the value chain”, EDB Chairman Suresh de Mel observed in his remarks.

The National Export Strategy five-year plan (2018-22) identified boat building and its related services as one of the five key industries to expand Sri Lanka’s export basket and increase the island’s export earnings to US$ 28 billion by 2022.

To enable the boat building industry to realize its full potential, the National Budget 2018 allocated funds to develop a regulatory framework and infrastructure facilities for the industry.

The EDB spearheaded the initiatives to establish a regulatory framework for Sri Lanka’s boat building industry in consultation with the other private and government relevant stakeholders.

M/S Lloyds Register Marine was hired as the consultant covering the entire value chain of the industry. The consultant had a series of meetings with the relevant government and private sector industry stakeholders to obtain their views in developing the regulatory framework.

The regulatory framework covers registration, regulation, and technical guidelines for all boat categories manufactured in the country (other than the fishing boat category), leisure craft operations, and visiting yachts/crafts as well as imports of boats to Sri Lanka.

Under this regulatory framework, “Regulations for Registration of Boat Yards” are proposed to be implemented under the Industrial Promotion Act, No. 46 of 1990.

โ€˜Lakkam Marketing Exhibitionโ€™ to boost local young entrepreneurs and manufacturers

‘Lakkam Marketing Exhibition’ to boost local young entrepreneurs and manufacturers

Minister of Industry Wimal Weerawansa, at the opening of the Colombo District Inaugural Lakes Market Lakkam at Diyatha Uyana yesterday

The objective of the inaugural ‘Lakkam Marketing Exhibition’ organized by the Ceylon Industrial Development Board island wide is to create a new market space and space for new orders for local young entrepreneurs and manufacturers.

This was opined by Minister of Industry Wimal Weerawansa, at the opening of the Colombo District Inaugural Lakes Market Lakkam yesterday (29) at Diyatha Uyana. The Ceylon Industrial Development Board (CIDB) hosted this event which concludes on 31.

“This exhibition will also expand the market space available to local SMEs and manufacturers in the country as there is very little marketing space available and to enable them to get new orders. We hope this event will encourage and empower young local entrepreneurs in particular to look at creating more self-employment projects,” he said. Lakkam sales fairs have been held in three major cities in the Kegalle, Kalutara and Gampaha districts and sales fairs will be held in the Anuradhapura, Galle and Matara districts in the coming days.

Ceylon Industrial Development Board Chairman Upasena Dissanayake says that local people who value localism have the opportunity to purchase local products of micro, small and medium scale industrialists registered with the Ceylon Industrial Development Board at these fairs.

The Ceylon Industrial Development Board also plans to hold 200 such fairs nationwide by the end of this year.

 

Hanseo University of Korea explores investment for Aviation University in SL

Hanseo University of Korea explores investment for Aviation University in SL

The President of Hanseo University and senior most management/faculty with Ambassador and officials of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the ROK at the corporate office of the President

Since Sri Lanka does not possess a well-equipped aviation training school of international standing, the Korean Embassy had a high level meeting with the President Dr. Ki Sun Ham and the top most management of Hanseo University of Korea and discussed this proposal.

The arrangements were made by S.C. Byun, a leading Korean corporate captain based in Sri Lanka and the Chairman of Korean Residents Association of Sri Lanka.

The meeting was attended by Ambassador Dr. Mendis and Minister Commercial Counsellor M. Mallikarachchi at the Hanseo University. The Hanseo University is a private entity which has one of the largest fleets of aircraft including a Boeing 737 and Cessna corporate jet and a number of other aircrafts not only in the region but in the world.

The University offers a diverse programs including advanced pilot licenses, flight training, avionics training and other disciplines in the airline industry, amongst others.

It is strongly anticipated that given the economic, commercial and investment milieu of Sri Lanka, that these initiatives and business propositions with the Republic of Korea would fructify, thus accruing economic utility to the economy of the country.

The Commercial Division of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in the Republic of Korea has been tenaciously and aggressively promoting economic, investment and commercial activity with particular focus on exports from Sri Lanka to the RoK and attraction of foreign direct investments (FDIs) and international joint ventures, amongst others, to boost and augment the economy of Sri Lanka, given the slowdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During the last couple of months, the Embassy in Seoul conducted webinars to promote the exports of tea to the RoK, establish linkages for processing of gems and jewelry as well as exports to the RoK, use Sri Lanka as a hub for boat manufacturing and ship building and high-level meeting with the President and top most management of Hanseo University to establish a branch (FDI) in Sri Lanka, among others.

 

Turnover at a near 3-week high

Bourse started the week reverting the direction back to positive after two consecutive sessions in the negative territory while recording a near 3-week high turnover.

Index experienced a short-lived spike within the first few minutes of trading, thereafter witnessed a continuous upward movement reaching its intraday high of 7,149 during mid-day.

Later the market recorded a sideways movement and closed at 7,128 gaining 30 points. Banking sector counters dominated the turnover for the session with a contribution of 63%.

Parcel trades boosted the turnover for the session amounting to 50% of total. Market witnessed the highest net foreign outflow after 2 months while recording high participation.

Decreased tobacco consumption has positive net impact on national economy

A new Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) study offers empirical evidence that the net impact on the output of the national economy due to decreased tobacco consumption is positive because of increased spending on non-tobacco goods and services. On average, a tobacco-user household spends Rs 2,000 per month on tobacco, constituting 4% of the household budget. Spending on tobacco can drive out other critical household expenditures including basic needs such as food, education, health and housing. This ‘crowding out effect’ is greatest for poor families, affecting not only the smoker but the rest of the family as well.

Based on the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) data of the Department of Census and Statistics (DCS) and the Economics of Tobacco Toolkit of the World Bank, a new IPS study provides empirical evidence that the net impact on the national economy’s output from decreased tobacco consumption is positive.

The IPS study reveals that a 20% reduction in tobacco consumption will lead to a 30% net benefit to the economy through increased consumption of non-tobacco goods and services.

Accordingly, based on the output approach, the study offers compelling evidence that reduced tobacco consumption will yield net positive gains on national income through increased consumption of non-tobacco goods and services.

These estimates are based solely on the output approach and do not take into account economic benefits associated with reduced tobacco use such as reduced healthcare costs, reduced environmental costs and other positive gains linked to increased non-tobacco consumption; all of which accrue benefits not just for tobacco users, but for the country as a whole.

Furthermore, the study shows that household spending on basic needs is negatively affected by tobacco-related expenditures.

Poor families spend nearly 60-70% of their income on food, reflecting budgetary constraints for other basic needs such as education, health and housing. Notably, among the poorest 40%, tobacco-user households allocate a lower budget share on food, health, education and housing compared to tobacco non-user households.

This implies that household budget allocations are constrained by tobacco expenditures.

This IPS study offers empirical evidence to support effective tobacco control policies in Sri Lanka. The report was authored by Priyanka Jayawardena and Harini Weerasekera.

 

Central Banks of Pakistan, Sri Lanka should co-operate for forex investments - Cabraal

Central Banks of Pakistan, Sri Lanka should co-operate for forex investments - Cabraal

Vignettes of the Trade and Investment Forum

Prime Ministers, we all know that there is a resource gap in our countries, and that such resource gap has to be filled with investment. In the Colonial times, many of those countries that reached high per capita incomes, did not fill the resource gap with investment. They took the dubious step to conquer other countries and forcibly grab resources.

State Bank of Pakistan and Central Bank of Sri Lanka should now be looking at ways and means by which both can co-operate in our respective forex investments.

“These are the big tickets that can make an impact in our cooperation. That’s a very important part where we can make a significant difference in the way we do business and investment between our two countries in the future. In addition we must also promote trade within our private sectors,” opined State Minister of Money, Capital Markets and State Enterprise Reforms Nivard Cabraal, at the Trade and Investment Forum organised by the Pakistan High Commission recently.

 Following is the Speech made by State Minister Ajith Nivard Cabraal, where both Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa, attended.

 “Prime Ministers, our two countries have come a long way since we gained independence. Over the last 73 odd years, we have broken free from many shackles of Colonialism. We are finally beginning to “think big” of our respective economies and focus on the next era of our respective countries.

I have listened to speeches of the Pakistan Prime Minister as well as that of our own Prime Minister, and have seen a common trait. That is, they both talk about bringing the poverty levels down and making sure that the fruits of development reach every section of the country’s people. Those are very important outcomes that we all need to be focusing on.

 By 1992, within 45 years of being independent, Pakistan was able to win the Cricket World Cup under your current Prime Minister, by beating England. We in Sri Lanka were very happy to watch him play Cricket, but when he played against us, we were not so happy! Nevertheless, we have been regularly delighted with the exploits of the Cricket team of Pakistan. Perhaps as a result of their successes, we also took a cue, and by 1997, 49 years since our own independence, we beat Australia to become the World Cricket champions.

 Unfortunately, however, we have not done so well in other areas, such as cooperation in trade and investment. As your Foreign Minister mentioned, the targets that we have set for ourselves in this sphere seem to be quite low.

We should not be looking at 300 or 400 million dollars of trade and investment.  We should really be looking at a lot more, given the relationships that we have, the friendships that we enjoy, and the way in which we have cooperated with each other. We should be talking about trade and investment between ourselves in the billions of dollars. Let’s therefore see whether today could be the day where we start on that target.

Prime Ministers, we all know that there is a resource gap in our countries, and that such resource gap has to be filled with investment. In the Colonial times, many of those countries that reached high per capita incomes, did not fill the resource gap with investment. They took the dubious step to conquer other countries and forcibly grab resources.

 By doing so, they were able to reach the prosperity levels that they are at today. But our two countries have not done it that way. We have accessed resources and investment legally and honourably. We invited and received investments. We took loans. We traded in a fair manner. We played by the rules. That is how our countries have progressed and developed.

 In my view, to do that successfully, we have to make sure that we invest in each other’s countries. I was a former Governor of the Central Bank, and my experience tells me that we have been mainly investing in the West for too long. We have invested in those countries based on the “credit ratings” given by various Western credit rating agencies. Then, we get about a 1 per cent return. But, when those countries’ investors invest in our economies, we pay about 7 per cent as interest, due to our supposedly “poor credit rating”.

Have you also ever wondered as to why when we lend money to the West, it is called an “investment”, but, when they lend money to us it is a called a “loan”? Not only that. In accordance with that strange arrangement, we suffer from an interest differential of around 6 per cent on our reciprocal investments. On that basis, if we have forex reserves of 10 billion dollars and our market borrowings are higher than that, we will have a 6 per cent up-front negative carry on our total reserves. That works out to about six hundred million dollars, which is a lot of money!

 In that background, I think we need to think as to how we can co-operate with each other and in particular, as to where we can invest in each other’s economies and countries.

 Post-Covid moratorium

Prime Minister Imran Khan made a fervent plea recently for a Post-Covid moratorium to provide some real financial support to the countries that need to deal with the fall-out of the pandemic. Sadly, it has not yet been favourably responded to, by the global financial community.

Our President also made a similar plea a few months ago. But unlike what happened immediately after the tsunami, the world monetary authorities have been very slow in responding to these calls. If an year’s grace was given to the emerging nations for the forex payments that had to be made in that year to the multilateral institutions, it would have made a huge difference to those nations which have had to grapple with the sudden drop in their foreign receipts as a result of the pandemic. Let’s therefore agree to work together to achieve that kind of a global outcome, which is essential for the continued growth of our countries.

Prime Ministers, Pakistan is a 300 billion dollar economy. We are a 80 billion dollar economy. In that context, I think if we can work out a scheme where our two countries have trade relationship of at least a billion dollars very soon. That would be a great outcome for both our countries.

 Let’s also make our respective countries preferred destinations. Let’s make Pakistan a preferred destination from Sri Lanka, and Sri Lanka a preferred destination from Pakistan. Let’s visit each other’s countries frequently. Let’s play a little more cricket as well. Maybe some club teams, school teams, or over-50 cricket teams (I can also participate then!), women’s teams, can play each other. We can also have exchanges of students. We already have that happening. In fact, we have to be grateful to Pakistan for providing 1000 scholarships to our kids to study in their universities. Let’s make films together. Let’s organize exhibitions. Deepening our co-operation in various ways is  essential if we are to make our relationship meaningful and profitable.

 Prime Ministers, I welcome the Pakistan Foreign Minister’s suggestion that we should now move from geo-politics to geo-economics, and why not? I think that’s an excellent basis for future co-operation, when we are reshaping our respective economies. We must keep that in mind, because I think it would be an important factor when we push forward our own economies. In that regard, I must also proudly mention that Sri Lanka is today emerging from economic stagnation which dragged us down over the last five years. In fact, Sri Lanka has been able to go through the recent difficult period with the Covid pandemic, even while maintaining low interest rates and protecting the value of our Rupee. 

Continuous pipeline of investments

 Prime Ministers, going forward, a continuous pipeline of investments would be a priority for us in much the same way that it will be for you. So, come invest with us. In the same way, Sri Lankans could invest with you.

We have the Port City which is an exciting value proposition. We have the Hambantota Industrial Zone. We would like you to consider making investments there too. I also know you have some great industries in Pakistan. You have the Pharma industry. In fact, I met some of them last night and had wonderful conversations. Let’s see whether we can develop some partnerships in that field, as well.

 Let’s now promote a sustainable South-South dialogue and partnership. One of the best economists of our country in the 1980s, Dr. Gamani Corea who was the Secretary General of UNCTAD, was the man who first proposed the “South-South” cooperation. Unfortunately, that laudable concept didn’t get enough traction at that time, but today would be a good day for us to take that initiative forward. That would be a tribute to that great man as well.

 Prime Minister Imran Khan, we deeply appreciate the time you have spent here in Sri Lanka and the fact that you have been the first visitor to Sri Lanka after the pandemic.

We greatly value your visit and we hope that today’s event would be the fore-runner for a great partnership. You have been involved in great partnerships in the field of Cricket and I think you know very well about the value of good partnerships. Let’s hope that the great partnership we are starting today would be a truly winning partnership for both Sri Lanka and Pakistan.