Business
ComBank Group posts healthy topline growth, amidst prudent provisioning
The Commercial Bank of Ceylon Group has posted a strong operational performance in the first nine months as well as in the third quarter despite the continuing adverse effects of macroeconomic variables which have necessitated a tripling of impairment provisions for the nine months ended 30th September 2022 and reduced profits for the quarter as well as the year to date compared to the corresponding periods of last year.
Nevertheless, the Bank reported that the third quarter witnessed a reversal of the operating loss before Value Added Tax (VAT) on Financial Services of Rs. 3.581 billion reported for the second quarter of the year.
These achievements were recorded even after providing relief for affected businesses and individuals in line with directions issued by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka as well as the Bank’s own relief schemes which included deferment of repayment terms of credit facilities, concessionary rates of interest on eligible loan products (debt moratorium) and waiving off certain fees and charges following the global pandemic, the Bank said.
Noting that the external challenges that have depressed profit and other indicators continued in the third quarter, Commercial Bank Chairman Prof. Ananda Jayawardane said: “The growth we have recorded in business volumes indicates that core banking operations remained intact. The single biggest impact on growth in terms of bottom line continues to be the burgeoning provisioning for impairment, which is an unavoidable response to the prevailing economic environment. Such provisioning assures our stakeholders that the Bank is financially prepared for any future contingencies.”
The Bank’s Managing Director and CEO Sanath Manatunge commented: “Our results underline that at Commercial Bank, risk appetite and risk tolerances continue to be well-managed, especially in the context of the challenges faced by the banking sector. We have continued our focus on preserving the quality of the loan book, managing interest rates and liquidity, while improving compliance to minimize reputational risk. The increase in the cost of funds is inevitable, but all possible steps have been taken to increase the fee-based income and to maintain non-interest costs at acceptable levels.”
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”
US sports envoys to Lanka to champion youth development
Rahuman questions sudden cancellation of leave of CEB employees
