The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), together with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC), has launched its "A Share for Everyone, A Unit for Everyone" (Samata Kotasak, Samata Ekakayak) initiative through investor forums held in Monaragala and Batticaloa, marking another step in its island-wide campaign to broaden participation in Sri Lanka's capital market.
The two forums attracted more than 500 participants, reflecting growing interest in investment opportunities outside the Western Province.
The concept, developed by SEC Chairman Senior Prof. D.B.P.H. Dissabandara, aims to encourage inclusive wealth creation by making Sri Lanka's capital market more accessible to all citizens while promoting a fair, efficient, orderly and transparent investment environment.
Under the initiative, the SEC and CSE will conduct investor education forums across the country to improve financial literacy, strengthen investor awareness and encourage wider participation in the equity market.
By leveraging the CSE's nationwide presence, the programme seeks to provide greater access to investment opportunities through licensed stockbroking firms and unit trust management companies, enabling more Sri Lankans to participate in the country's capital market.
As an added incentive, participants attending the forums will receive investment coupons, sponsored by the SEC and CSE, which can be used to support their equity investments.
The investor forums commenced with presentations by Central Bank of Sri Lanka senior economists N. B. Janagan and Kasunka Herath, who provided an overview of Sri Lanka's macroeconomic outlook and current economic trends.
The programme also featured presentations by representatives of leading stockbroking firms, who introduced participants to the fundamentals of stock market investing and highlighted available investment opportunities within Sri Lanka's capital market.
Representatives from the unit trust industry conducted educational sessions explaining how unit trusts operate, their benefits and how they can serve as an accessible investment option for new investors.
Both forums concluded with an interactive panel discussion and question-and-answer session, bringing together speakers, industry experts and representatives from the SEC and CSE to discuss opportunities within Sri Lanka's equity market and address participants' questions.
Through the "A Share for Everyone, A Unit for Everyone" initiative, the SEC and CSE aim to foster a broader investment culture, improve financial inclusion and empower more Sri Lankans to participate confidently in the country's growing capital market.
Seylan Bank Partners with John Keells CG Auto to Boost NEV Ownership
Seylan Bank PLC has entered into a strategic partnership with John Keells CG Auto (Pvt) Ltd to introduce a dedicated leasing facility for customers purchasing New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) in Sri Lanka, reinforcing the Bank's commitment to sustainable transportation and green mobility.
The collaboration offers customised leasing solutions for BYD and DENZA vehicles, combining competitive financing with a streamlined approval process and personalised customer support to make NEV ownership more accessible.
Under the partnership, customers can obtain leasing facilities with repayment periods of up to seven years, while eligible applicants can receive lease approvals within 24 hours, ensuring a faster and more convenient vehicle purchasing experience.
Commenting on the partnership, Asiri Abhayaratne, Assistant General Manager – Marketing & Sales at Seylan Bank, said:
"As a bank committed to supporting Sri Lanka's future in environmental sustainability, we are pleased to collaborate with John Keells CG Auto in expanding access to electric mobility solutions. Through this partnership, we aim to provide customers with flexible and convenient financing options that make NEV ownership more accessible while contributing to environmentally responsible transportation."
Charith Panditharatne, Chief Executive Officer of John Keells CG Auto, said the partnership would further strengthen Sri Lanka's growing NEV ecosystem.
"We are delighted to partner with Seylan Bank to further strengthen the NEV ecosystem in Sri Lanka. This collaboration enables customers to experience a seamless purchasing journey supported by attractive leasing solutions and enhanced customer convenience."
As part of the offering, Seylan Bank customers will benefit from competitive leasing interest rates, a 50% concession on document processing fees, and dedicated support from the Bank's leasing specialists.
The Bank will also provide doorstep assistance and complimentary consultancy services throughout the leasing process, including documentation support and post-approval services, helping customers enjoy a smooth and hassle-free transition to new energy vehicle ownership.
The partnership reflects the shared commitment of Seylan Bank and John Keells CG Auto to accelerate the adoption of sustainable mobility solutions while supporting Sri Lanka's transition towards cleaner and environmentally responsible transportation.
CSE Launches ‘A Share for Everyone, A Unit for Everyone’ Investor Forums in Monaragala and Batticaloa
