Business
CSE turnover hits Rs. 5.52 billion as Expolanka Holdings shines
By Hiran H.Senewiratne
Expolanka Holdings PLC secured exceptionally strong top and bottom line growth during the quarter ended September 30, 2020 (2Q20), largely as a result of a focused and consistent strategy along with the ability to stay agile and optimize opportunities presented in a dynamic operating environment, market analysts said.
The company recorded the highest retail driven intra-day trade of Rs. 1.3 billion at the CSE, with 57.2 million shares traded yesterday. The reason being that second quarter results of Expolanka recorded 646 percent compared to the corresponding year 2019. It is said that the company had recorded Rs. 4.5 billion profit against Rs. 830 million lost in the second quarter, stock market analysts said.
Amid those developments both indices moved upwards. The All Share Price Index went up by 34.41 points and S and P SL20 rose by 12.89 points. The turnover stood at Rs. 5.52 billion with four crossings. Those crossings were reported in United Motors, which crossed 4.5 million shares to the tune of Rs. 151.3 million, its share price traded at Rs. 61, Vallibel One 3.1 million shares crossed for Rs. 80.6 million, its share traded at Rs. 26, CIC 200,000 shares crossed for Rs. 26 million, its shares trading at Rs. 130 and Union Bank two million shares crossed for Rs. 23 million, its shares trading at Rs. 11.50.
In the retail market top five contributors to the CSE turnover were, Expolanka Rs. 1.3 billion (57.2 million shares traded), Royal Ceramic Rs. 241 million (1.53 million shares traded), Hayleys Rs. 218.8 million (498000 shares traded),Lanka Wall Tiles Rs. 217 million (1.78 million shares traded) and Dipped Products Rs. 208.4 million (554,000 shares traded). During the day 225.2 million share volumes changed hands in 38618 transactions.
The CSE showed a remarkable turnaround last week with sharp gains by both indices and heavy turnover with several second and mid-tier stocks gaining aided by impressive earnings.
Last week also saw an average daily turnover of Rs. 3.35 billion, last experienced consistently in early to mid-October. In the previous week, the average was Rs. 1.3 billion.Elated by the performance of the Colombo bourse despite the lockdown, Money, Capital Markets and Public Enterprise Reform State Minister Nivard Cabraal tweeted: “Investor confidence levels are indeed encouraging.’
Sri Lanka rupee was quoted weaker at 184.60/70 to the US dollar in the spot market on Monday, while yields were marginally up in dull market trade, dealers said.
The rupee closed at 184.45/55 to the US dollar on Friday.
Business
AHK Sri Lanka champions first-ever Sri Lankan delegation at Drupa 2024
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.
Business
HNB General Insurance recognized as Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024
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.”