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HNB collaborates with KIU Group to enhance financial and professional opportunities

November 5, 2024, 11:54 pm
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Sri Lanka’s leading private sector bank, HNB PLC, recently announced its partnership with the KIU Group, a conglomerate that provides comprehensive educational and professional opportunities, to nurture the country’s next generation of leaders. HNB and KIU Group of Companies, comprising of KIU University, EIPER International (Private) Limited, Green Cross Sri Lanka, and PYG Lan (Pvt) Ltd., signed the MoU at a ceremony held at HNB Towers, with HNB Head of Retail Banking, Kanchana Karunagama, Chairman of KIU Group of Companies/President of KIU University Dr. Jagath Seneviratne, and senior management from both companies in attendance. Under the terms of this MoU, HNB will collaborate with KIU University to offer innovative financial solutions that facilitate access to KIU’s undergraduate and post-graduate programmes, including educational loans and payment schemes designed to alleviate financial pressures on students and their families. As a university recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education and accredited by the University Grants Commission, KIU offers a diverse range of degree programs, ranging from law, accounting, IT and HR to business analytics, nursing and acupuncture and more. “Expanding access to education is fundamental to ensuring a durable economic recovery. Our partnership with KIU Group is a significant step towards addressing the critical challenges faced by Sri Lanka’s higher education system. This collaboration not only aligns educational programs with current industry needs to enhance employability but also creates pathways for international education and professional training. Together, we are committed to building a skilled workforce, fostering financial inclusion, and supporting the sustainable development of Sri Lanka’s next generation of professionals and business leaders,” HNB Head of Retail Banking, Kanchana Karunagama said. Through partnerships with international institutions such as the University of Western Australia and the Roshana Care Group, KIU Group offers students valuable opportunities to pursue higher education and professional training in Australia. Notably, the collaboration with Roshana Care Group provides pathways for qualified nurses and caregivers to secure employment in Australia. KIU Group is also successfully facilitating the placement of Registered Nurses in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Additionally, the NCC International Foundation Diploma serves as an entryway to higher education opportunities in the UK, USA, and Australia without requiring the completion of A-Levels This MoU also extends to EIPER International, and focuses on enhancing professional opportunities through recruitment and training initiatives. This partnership will enable EIPER International, a licensed recruitment agency, to support the deployment of skilled professionals to international markets, particularly in the health sciences and caregiving sectors, thereby contributing to global workforce development. With 254 customer centres, HNB is one of Sri Lanka’s largest, most technologically innovative private banks. Consolidating its legacy in sustainability, good governance, and corporate excellence, HNB was crowned the Best Corporate Citizen for 2022 at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Best Corporate Citizen Awards. Other significant accolades include being adjudged as the “Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka” for the 14th occasion by the Asian Banker, being declared the “Best SME Bank” by Asiamoney Magazine, being awarded the Sri Lanka Technology Excellence Award for Robotics – Banking at the Asian Technology Excellence awards 2023, for integration of Robotic Process Automation in its Custody Banking and Trustee Services, as well as securing a Top 5 position in Business Today’s Top 40 rankings for 2023.   Image Caption : HNB Head of Retail Banking, Kanchana Karunagama (fourth from left) and KIU Group of Companies Chairman & President of KIU University, Dr. Jagath Seneviratne (fifth from left) exchanging the MoU in the presence of (from left): HNB Product Manager (HNB Adishtana), Chathura Kodikara, HNB Relationship Manager, Ruwanthika Perera, HNB Head of Business Development, Samuddika Mendis, KIU University Vice Chancellor, Dr. Sajeewanie Liyanaarachchi, Chief of Global Strategic Partnerships & Member of the Board of Management of KIU University, Managing Director of EIPER International (Private) Limited, Thishani Rodrigo, and KIU University Head of Marketing Division & Member of the Board of Management, Dilhara Rathnayake.

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Sysco LABS Celebrates a year of Innovation & Achievement at ‘Blueprint 2024’

November 6, 2024, 12:02 am
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Sysco LABS’ flagship awards event – Blueprint 2024 took place recently at the Shangri-La Colombo. Sysco LABS colleagues gathered to celebrate a year of success, with colleagues being recognized in several categories including long service awards, sporting colors and the coveted ‘Hall of Fame’ awards which recognize excellence in Tech Operations, Quality Engineering, Enablement and Engineering. The event also showcased keynote speeches from Lise Monahan, Vice President and Chief Information Officer – Americas – Sysco Corporation who spoke about plans for the year ahead and Rasika Karunatilake, Managing Director of Sysco LABS who reflected on the company’s history – with a special focus – celebrating 10 years of Sysco in Sri Lanka. Lise Monahan, Vice President and Chief Information Officer – Americas – Sysco Corporation delivers a keynote speech, celebrating the achievements of FY’24 while outlining the plans for FY’25 Winner of the Sysco LABS Hall of Fame – Engineering 2024: Marketplace Shopping Platform Winner in the Hall of Fame – Quality Engineering: Data Testing Framework Winner in the Hall of Fame – Tech Operations: MAO Automation Hub Winner of the Hall of Fame – Enablement: The ISO Certifications   Image Caption : Rasika Karunatilake, Managing Director – Sysco LABS Sri Lanka delivers a keynote speech celebrating 10 years of Sysco operations in Sri Lanka

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Voting Beyond Borders: Can Overseas Sri Lankans Finally Have Their Say?

November 6, 2024, 2:46 am
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By Dr Bilesha Weeraratne The recent presidential election in Sri Lanka marked a series of “firsts,” setting it apart from previous elections. It saw a record-low number of 350,516 valid voters per candidate, implementation of the Regulation of Election Expenditure Act of 2023, and a second count of votes. Notably, there was also greater engagement from Overseas Sri Lankans (OSLs) in the country’s electoral process than at any time previously. Indeed President Anura Kumara Dissanayaka actively engaged with Sri Lankan expatriates during his campaign, visiting countries including South Korea, Australia, the USA, Canada, Sweden, the UK and Japan. Continuing a trend from the previous presidential election in 2019, there was evidence of Sri Lankans returning to vote. However, despite this enthusiasm, the long-standing debate over granting OSLs the right to vote from abroad remains unresolved. Of the OSLs, it also means 1.5 million Sri Lankan workers abroad could not vote in the recent election according to the SLBFE. Voting with Their Wallets While OSLs may not have voting rights yet, those who regularly remit earnings back to Sri Lanka have already demonstrated their influence—by voting with their wallets. In the run-up to the 2022 economic crisis, government efforts to attract more formal remittances by offering higher interest rates failed to convince OSLs, as the formal foreign exchange rate offered was far below the informal rate. As a result, in 2022, remittances to Sri Lanka declined by a record 42%. Compared to the steady 10-year average USD 6.4 billion inflow (from 2010 to 2020), the decline to USD 3.7 billion was the final nail in the coffin that sparked the 2022 sovereign debt default. Figure 1: Annual remittances in USD Billion and as a Percentage of GDP: 2010-2023 Source: CBSL   Remittance and Voting Rights The literature identifies three mechanisms for linking the receipt of remittances with political participation. 1) Income Channel: those with greater resources are able to devote more resources (both in terms of material support and time) to political activities; 2) Independence Channel: remittances reduce the dependence of recipients on the government for material prosperity; and 3) Insurance Channel -remittances promote feelings of economic security in recipients that allow them to pay more attention to non-material concerns.   While these mechanisms are for all voters in households receiving remittances, OSLs prefer a say in how the macroeconomy back in Sri Lanka is managed by elected officials, i.e. how does the government spend the foreign exchange OSLs regularly send as remittances? what are the interest rates on their savings? how is inflation feeding into the purchasing power of their remittances? how is the foreign exchange rate affecting the disposable income of their remittances? how are savings and investments of their remittances taxed? and what are the public services available to their families left behind? to name a few. The answers to such questions are linked to election promises and how governments actually perform when in office. Voting rights would allow OSLs a voice in economic policies that impact their remittances and financial interests in Sri Lanka.   Overseas Absentee Voting: A Long-Awaited Promise Providing voting rights or Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) has been in discussion for many years, with various candidates,  including the current president, promising to make it a reality. Sri Lanka has also ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families, which calls for migrant workers’ voting rights (Article 41). Many previous governments, though keen, have not been successful on this front. Previous efforts include a Parliamentary Select Committee for Electoral Reforms recommending voting rights for OSLs in 2021, and a Special Presidential Commission in 2023 (among other issues) being required to make recommendations on a mechanism for OSL voting rights.  In 2023, the Election Commission developed a beta version of an online method for registering OSLs for voting. However, according to the Commissioner General of Elections their hands are tied “until the Parliament passes a law to enable migrant workers to vote from their destination states.”     How to Make Overseas Absentee Voting a Reality There are many possible and sophisticated ways to implement OAV, including advanced in-person (similar to postal voting in Sri Lanka), voting by mail, facsimile, or internet, as well as proxy voting (where a duly authorised representative or a proxy vote on behalf of the absent voter). Some countries such as the Philippines, for instance, use a combination of in-person and postal voting. For Sri Lanka, keeping things simple would be one important mindset in transitioning from an eternal election promise to making overseas absentee voting a reality. A manageable starting point could be advanced in-person in-embassy voting, which would function analogous to Sri Lanka’s postal voting system. Embassies could serve as analogous to postal voting centers for expatriates, and OLSs to postal voters. Hence, learning from the Philippines, a few key steps in the process of allowing in-person in-embassy voting are:
  1. Enshrine in the Constitution the right of qualified OSLs to vote
  2. Enact an Act related to OAV
  3. Define a system and the mechanism for exercising such rights, covering aspects of
    1. Defining qualifications for OAV
    2. Identifying a registration procedure for eligible OSL
    3. Identifying voting and vote counting mechanisms.
Not an Easy Road Implementing OAV will not be without challenges. For Sri Lankans residing in countries without a local embassy, registration and voting might require travel to the nearest consular post. While critics would highlight that time and financial cost would “deter the diaspora from proactively partaking in voting”,  employees such as female domestic workers would have the added challenge of seeking “approval of their masters and traveling a long distance to both register and vote”. Mail voting or assigning longer voting periods, including weekends, could alleviate some of these concerns. Other concerns of out-of-country voting include potential vote buying and exploitation. Activists also raise concerns about whether politically appointed staff in diplomatic missions would influence, especially the unskilled and voiceless OSLs. Therefore, there is a need for a “mechanism with checks and balances” to “prevent the integrity of the electoral result from being questioned”. While criticisms of each optional OAV method will likely emerge, it is important to start taking initial steps toward one feasible and practical option. The issues can be ironed out with time, and more sophisticated options can be pursued. Finally, it is important to realise that achieving this goal in time for the upcoming Parliamentary election on 14 November or the pending provincial or local government elections in 2025 is not easy. Yet, initial steps towards this change are much needed and the time is right for it. Dr Bilesha Weeraratne is a Research Fellow and Head of Migration and Urbanisation Research at IPS. Prior to re-joining IPS in 2014, she was a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Princeton University, New Jersey, USA. Her research interests include internal and international migration, climate mobility, urbanisation, the economics of education, labour economics, economic development, econometrics and economic modeling. She holds an MA in Economics from Rutgers University, USA and an MPhil and PhD in Economics from the City University of New York, USA.

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CEAT Kelani inspires top dealers with ‘Autobahn’ convention & awards gala

November 6, 2024, 3:19 am
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Hosts top 125 dealers and their families at two-day event at Cinnamon Grand and Port City Sri Lanka’s leading tyre brand CEAT pulled out all the stops to felicitate and recognise top dealers at a two-day convention and awards gala at the Cinnamon Grand and the Port City recently, blending glitz and fun with an illuminating technical session. Themed ‘Autobahn’ to reference the German engineering, research and development expertise that underpin the brand, the event revolved around Sven Rath, General Manager – Global Outdoor Testing at the CEAT Research & Development Centre in Frankfurt, Germany, who was present in person. Delivering the welcome address at the awards dinner, CEAT Kelani Holdings Chairman Mr Chanaka De Silva said that collectively, the 125 top dealers felicitated represent the heartbeat of the company and are a vital part of its success. Pointing out that CEAT Kelani had achieved several significant milestones despite the challenges in the market, Mr De Silva said the company had continued to grow, innovate and serve customers better than ever before, retained its status as the most-loved tyre brand in the country, and received an AA+ rating from Fitch for the fourth consecutive year in 2024. CEAT’s top 10 dealers countrywide received handsome awards for their contributions to the Company’s performance while the top 45 dealers received awards of excellence, and the top performers in each of tyre categories manufactured by the company were recognised separately at the dealer convention. A noteworthy feature was the presence of representatives of two of CEAT’s top customers in two key export markets – Singapore and Egypt. Top dealers honoured at the event received cash awards, gift vouchers, trophies and certificates in recognition of their performances in each of the product categories that CEAT manufactures, as well for overall excellence. CEAT’s Top 10 dealers for 2024 in descending order were U&H Wheels of Colombo 2, Sandeew Auto Enterprises of Colombo 14, Sripali Tyre House of Anuradhapura, Viran Tyre Service of Marawila, New Lakmini Tyre House of Kurunegala, Sumith Marketing of Ambalangoda, Abdeen Tyre Service of Akkaraipattu, Metro Auto Mart of Moratuwa, Asanka Motor Stores & Tyre House of Madampe, and Nanda Tyre House, Vavuniya. The first day of the dealer convention began with a technical session at which dealers were provided an insight into the technological facilities and expertise available at the company’s R&D facility in Germany, and the testing that products undergo at the test tracks in Germany. The second day was spent at the Colombo Port City, and included a beach fiesta with water sports for the dealers and their family members. The largest domestic manufacturer of cross-ply and radial tyres in Sri Lanka, CEAT’s emergence as the top brand in the country’s tyre sector is the result of substantial investments over several years that have seen not just exponential increases in volumes but expansion of the product range, the deployment of new technology and quantum improvements in quality. The company’s manufacturing operations encompass pneumatic tyres in the radial (passenger cars, vans and SUVs), commercial (Bias-ply and radial), motorcycle, three-wheeler and agricultural vehicle segments. CEAT Kelani Holdings currently manufactures half of Sri Lanka’s pneumatic tyre requirements, and exports about 20 per cent of its production to 16 countries. The joint venture’s cumulative investment in Sri Lanka over the past decade alone exceeds Rs 8.5 billion.   Photo caption: CEAT-Kelani’s top 10 dealers with the Chairman, Executive Director and representatives of the Company’s senior management.

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Nvidia overtakes Apple to become world’s most valuable company

November 6, 2024, 3:29 am
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The Tech Portal – Nvidia has conquered a new milestone – the chipmaking giant surpassed tech behemoth Apple in market cap on Tuesday. Nvidia’s market cap reached a total of $3.43 trillion after a 2.9% increase in its share price, blowing past Apple’s market cap of $3.4 trillion. The signs had been there, and the development was hardly unexpected, given that Nvidia has seen its shares meteorically rise over the past months. Nvidia has been one of the beneficiaries of the existing (and overwhelming) investor enthusiasm surrounding AI and its potential, and the company’s shares have risen by nearly 850% since the close of 2022. The rapid growth of GPUs alone saw Nvidia shares nearly triple this year. Nvidia has come a long way from its early days of supplying graphics chips for 3D gaming, and today, its GPUs are used in AI applications and to support AI-powered data processing, from language models to machine vision systems. The company, riding the rising demand for its GPUs, has carved a dominant space for itself in the AI landscape by powering the infrastructure that runs advanced generative AI models, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini. The results speak for themselves – today, nearly 75% of the AI accelerators worldwide are made by Nvidia. The company’s success is evident by the statistics as well – the past five quarters have seen the company’s revenue more than double, while its profits clocked a strong growth from $2.3 billion in early 2022 to $31.5 billion by mid-2024. It is estimated that the current fiscal year will witness yet another strong growth in the company’s revenue, and clock another increase of 44% in 2025. Nvidia currently accounts for nearly 7% of the S&P 500 Index, and is responsible for nearly a quarter of its 21% gain this year. It is thus hardly surprising that Nvidia has taken full advantage of the boom in AI infrastructure, and currently counts the likes of Microsoft, Google, and Amazon as significant clients. These companies have included Nvidia GPUs in their AI-powered cloud and data center operations – Nvidia is key to Microsoft’s existing initiatives in AI, Amazon Web Services (AWS) uses the company’s tech to boost its own AI cloud services, while social media giant Meta – parent company of Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads – utilizes Nvidia GPUs to improve ad targeting. Apple, which was surpassed by Nvidia on Tuesday, is another client of the chipmaker and integrates its AI functionalities directly into its devices. The iPhone-maker was the first to reach the milestones of having a market cap of $1 trillion (and $2 trillion later on), and the current development marks the second time Nvidia’s market cap has surpassed its own. The first time was back in June, when Nvidia surpassed both Apple and Microsoft (its market cap crossed the $3 trillion mark for the first time to reach $3.34 trillion at that time, before sliding back once more). Currently, Microsoft is ranked third, and has a market cap of nearly $3.1 trillion. https://thetechportal.com/2024/11/06/nvidia-overtakes-apple-to-become-worlds-most-valuable-company/

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COYLE Leadership Forum: A Visionary Platform for Tomorrow’s Business Leaders

November 7, 2024, 2:14 am
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COYLE held its landmark 2024 Leadership Forum at Shangri-La Colombo, uniting thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries to shape the future of business. Designed to inspire the next generation of trailblazers, the event brought together influential voices in the world of entrepreneurship and business strategy, setting the stage for an extraordinary day of knowledge sharing and forward-thinking ideas. This year’s forum was headlined by Ebraheem Al Samadi, a celebrated entrepreneur and luxury retail leader from Dubai. Known globally as a star of Netflix’s Dubai Bling, Al Samadi shared a compelling account of his entrepreneurial journey — one marked by calculated risks, relentless ambition, and remarkable success. His address highlighted the core tenets of perseverance and passion in achieving one’s goals, leaving the audience with invaluable insights into the realities and rewards of entrepreneurial resilience. Adding to the forum’s stellar lineup was Harsha Fernando, an innovation strategist from Los Angeles, California. With a focus on purposeful innovation and inspiring future change-makers, Fernando’s talk, Lead with Vision, Innovate with Purpose, provided strategic advice for young entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change. His message resonated deeply with the audience, underscoring the need for vision, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to social impact in business. The COYLE Chairman, Thushira Radella, a visionary and boundary-breaker, also took to the stage. Known for his business acumen and achievements across industries, Radella shared insights on building sustainable enterprises, fostering growth, and redefining industry standards. His address reaffirmed COYLE’s commitment to creating a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurs to thrive, grow, and expand from Colombo to the world. The event also marked the launch of Future Founders, a COYLE initiative to encourage entrepreneurship at the school level. Through this project, COYLE signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with three prominent schools, establishing a foundation for nurturing young talent. This initiative will soon be expanded to more schools and will include a seed fund facility and the COYLE Entrepreneurial Development Centre (EDC), designed to foster innovative thinking and entrepreneurial skills from an early age. This flagship event was made possible through a partnership with Nations Trust Bank, a premier institution in Sri Lanka, known for its commitment to nurturing local entrepreneurs. With shared values of fostering long-term development and supporting innovation, Nations Trust Bank’s partnership with COYLE exemplifies a dedication to shaping Sri Lanka’s entrepreneurial landscape. COYLE’s 2024 Leadership Forum stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and shared vision. By bringing together leaders to re-envision the future of business, the forum has laid a foundation for young entrepreneurs to build lasting success, innovate with integrity, and become the game-changers of tomorrow.

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‘ComBank Digital’ wins Gold at national ICT Awards 2024

November 7, 2024, 2:23 am
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The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has won the coveted Gold at the 2024 National Best Quality Software Awards (NBQSA), the national ICT awards. The Bank won the Gold in the highly competitive ‘Banking, Insurance & Finance Consumer’ category for ‘ComBank Digital’ – the Bank’s flagship digital channel that serves retail, SME and corporate clients. Complementing this triumph, the Bank received a Merit award in the same category for ‘Jimi GPT’ – the generative AI-powered Knowledge Assistant that assists more than 3,000 branch staff to instantly access the information they need from the Bank’s Intranet to serve customers. Commenting on the award won by ComBank Digital, Commercial Bank’s Chief Information Officer Mr Sumudu Gunawardhana said: “Winning this national ICT award is a powerful testament to ComBank Digital’s success in delivering an exceptional customer experience. Our app provides unparalleled convenience and security, empowering customers to manage their finances with ease. This recognition inspires us to continue innovating and setting new standards for digital banking at Commercial Bank, ensuring our customers always have access to the best possible tools and services. This is particularly exciting as we are about to welcome our 1.5 millionth customer to the platform, a true milestone in our journey.” Sri Lanka’s most-used digital banking platform, ComBank Digital processes more than 5 million transactions a month. Offered via a responsive web application and three native mobile applications (iOS, Android and Huawei), ComBank Digital encompasses functionalities ranging from banking needs, wealth investment, payments and lifestyle with access across all devices such as desktop PCs, laptop computers, tabs and smart phones. Driven by Commercial Bank’s ‘Digital by Default’ business model, ComBank Digital had achieved 44% digital penetration, was recording 48 million customer interactions per month and processing transactions averaging Rs 390 billion in value per month by end September this year. The Gold award at the national ICT awards also recognises the excellence of the platform and its impact in advancing digital banking solutions for customers, the Bank said. This embraces the trend-setting innovations and creative aspects of ComBank Digital, including several industry-first initiatives in Sri Lanka’s banking and finance industry, such as the launch of a loyalty rewards scheme for digital banking usage; the introduction of an e-FD Redemption feature on a digital banking platform, the revolutionary ‘Viewing issued Cheque Images’ feature; and instant loan against Cash/eFD. Meanwhile, the Merit award presented to ‘Jimi GPT’ recognises the game-changing role the AI-driven Knowledge Assistant will play in creating the work environment for the ‘Gen Z’ banker, while improving operational efficiency, accuracy of the information extracted and speeding up of onboarding time. For branch staff, ‘Jimi GPT’ reduces the time to access information to just 30 seconds. Sri Lanka’s first 100% carbon neutral bank, Commercial Bank is the largest private sector bank in Sri Lanka and the first Sri Lankan bank to be listed among the Top 1000 Banks of the World. The Bank is the largest lender to Sri Lanka’s SME sector, and is a leader in digital innovation in the country’s Banking sector. Commercial Bank operates a strategically-located network of branches and 974 automated machines island-wide, and has the widest international footprint among Sri Lankan Banks, with 20 outlets in Bangladesh, a Microfinance company in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, and a fully-fledged Tier I Bank with a majority stake in the Maldives.   Photo caption: Representatives of Commercial Bank accept the two awards at the National Best Quality Software Awards 2024

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Sri Lanka Crowned ‘Most Desirable Island in the World’

November 7, 2024, 2:54 am
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Sri Lanka has been voted the Most Desirable Island in the World at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024 in London. At the prestigious Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024 held in London, Sri Lanka emerged as the “Most Desirable Island in the World,” marking a significant milestone in its tourism recovery journey. More than 200,000 passionate travelers voted for Sri Lanka, reflecting the island’s powerful appeal and diverse attractions. Sri Lanka has risen from last year’s eighth place to take Gold in one of the Awards’ most thrilling turnarounds. Announcing the results Wanderlust said: “Known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’, the nation’s history comes to life through spectacular monuments such as Sigiriya Rock, the cave temples of Dambulla and the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.” “Elsewhere, its leopard-filled national parks and the jungle-fringed beaches of Tangalle and Trincomalee show off the island’s natural side. But, more recently, it’s the tea plantations and lush highlands of the centre that have caught the eye, with the fresh addition of the Pekoe Trail offering an exciting new way to explore Sri Lanka’s green heart.” Meanwhile, the Silver award of the Most Desirable Island category was secured by Taiwan, while Puerto Rico won the Bronze. Tokyo won the Gold award for the Most Desirable City in the world category and the category’s Silver award was secured by Singapore. Australia was awarded the Most Desirable Country in the world. The results for the 23rd Annual Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards were announced after more than 3 million votes were cast by 168,000 passionate and globetrotting readers. Destinations, tour operators and travel brands have been recognised across 22 categories at the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024, including the Most Desirable Countries and Cities in Europe and around the world.

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Seylan Bank enhances mobile banking app with Sinhala and Tamil language options

November 7, 2024, 2:57 am
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Seylan Bank recently upgraded its mobile banking app to include Sinhala and Tamil language options, further enhancing customer ease and satisfaction. With the introduction of trilingual services, the updated app is designed to provide customers with inclusive access to the bank’s online services. Available on Android and iOS, Seylan Bank’s mobile banking app has been revamped to enhance user experience overall. The same services the bank offers in English are now available in Sri Lanka’s two main local languages. The app’s new language options empower clients and make its services accessible to customers regardless of their language proficiency. Customers can expect to review their portfolios, set up their own security questions, pay bills, and carry out fund transfers effortlessly. The app has been redesigned to simplify financial transcactions for customers. With the new app, users can navigate through multiple portfolios, including savings accounts and credit cards, with an easy-to-read interface. Furthermore, the app enhances security measures to safeguard customers through biometric security features. Additional security options include three types of One-Time Password (OTP): SMS, email, and Soft Token. The Soft Token application allows users to generate their own OTPs for internet banking transactions. The app’s design provides customers with the opportunity to establish their own account safeguards. Named the “Third Challenge”, customers can now customise their own security questions. The app also features a customer service component. Designed to enable customers to contact the Bank in the event of challenges or any other concerns. Speaking on the app’s updates, Chaminda Senewiratne, Head of Digital Banking Channels, explained, “This latest upgrade of the app is an effort to make our customers feel more empowered as they explore online banking options. It was designed to eliminate challenges and help them bank with increased ease and efficiency. The app’s language accessibility, along with our efforts to maintain its simplicity, continues the bank’s tradition of elevating customer service and empowering our clients in the process.” The app’s other functions allow customers to view their fund transfer histories, report lost or stolen cards, and create favourite beneficiaries and billers for future payments. Additional features include the ability to search for the bank’s branches and view existing fixed deposits and loans. The Seylan Mobile Banking App is available for download on both Google Play and the Apple App Store.   Image Caption – Seylan Mobile Banking  App now available  in Sinhala & Tamil Languages

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Chevron Lanka collaborates with Uber SL     

November 7, 2024, 3:00 am
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Exclusive benefits on Caltex-branded lubricants for earners Products now available for order on Uber Eats app Chevron Lubricants Lanka PLC (Chevron Lanka), the company that markets and distributes Caltex-branded lubricants, is pleased to announce its collaboration with Uber in Sri Lanka. Drivers using Uber for providing Rides and doing deliveries will now have access to Chevron Lanka’s wide range of premium lubricants, known for enhancing engine performance, extending vehicle life, and optimizing fuel efficiency at special prices. This will help them save on essential vehicle maintenance and benefit them with superior protection and performance on the road. Uber Eats will now add the ‘car care’ category for the first time to strengthen its ‘Get Almost, Almost Anything’ promise. Sri Lankans will now be able to order premium lubricants from their favorite delivery platform with a few clicks. Bertram Paul, Managing Director & CEO, Chevron Lubricants Lanka PLC, said “We’re      thrilled to collaborate with Uber Sri Lanka, supporting drivers across both its verticals in the country with an exclusive value offering. We understand that maintaining a vehicle is critical for drivers, and our range of lubricants is designed to enhance engine life and performance. With this collaboration, we look forward to helping them experience a new level of efficiency and value.” Varun Wijewardane, Country Manager, Uber Delivery – Sri Lanka, said, “Couriers and drivers are critical to the success of the Uber ecosystem. We’re continually exploring ways to enhance their platform experience and offer them tangible benefits. This collaboration with Chevron Lanka enables us to contribute to their success by helping reduce operating costs and improve vehicle reliability. At the same time, we’re adding to our on-app offerings and including yet another category on Uber Eats, enabling delivery of premium lubricants to our customers on demand. Drivers across Uber’s Mobility and Delivery businesses can get access to Chevron Lanka’s industry-leading products with special offers at any Caltex Authorized Dealer.

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HNB strengthens tax advisory and business support through H. T. Peiris collaboration

November 7, 2024, 3:05 am
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HNB PLC, Sri Lanka’s leading private sector bank, recently entered into a strategic partnership with H. T. Peiris Company to provide comprehensive tax advisory services to its SME and Business Banking customers. The MoU was signed at HNB Towers, marking a significant milestone in enhancing value-added services for the bank’s business clients and setting the standard nationwide for tax advisory services offered. “This strategic alliance with H. T. Peiris Company represents our commitment to providing comprehensive financial solutions to our business clients. By combining our banking expertise with H. T. Peiris’s deep knowledge in tax advisory services, we’re creating a robust support system for our SME and Business Banking customers. This partnership will enable our clients to navigate tax-related challenges more effectively while optimizing their business operations,” said HNB Senior Manager – Business Banking, Jude Pillai. The partnership will facilitate specialized workshops across HNB’s regional network, ensuring businesses across the country can access expert tax advisory services. To ensure seamless coordination and delivery of services, both organizations will appoint dedicated Single Points of Contact (SPOC) in each region. “As a firm with over seven decades of experience in providing professional services to Sri Lankan businesses, we are excited to partner with HNB in this innovative initiative. This collaboration allows us to extend our expertise to a broader spectrum of businesses, contributing to their growth and compliance capabilities. Our partnership with HNB represents a significant step forward in enhancing the business advisory landscape in Sri Lanka,” said H. T. Peiris Company H. T. Peiris & Company Managing Partner, Amal Wimalasiri. Under this partnership, H. T. Peiris will conduct specialized tax consultation workshops across HNB’s nine regions, providing vital knowledge and support to the bank’s business customers at no additional cost. The collaboration leverages H. T. Peiris Company’s 75-year legacy in accounting, auditing, and financial consultancy to strengthen HNB’s service offerings.   Image Caption : HNB DGM – SME & MF, Rajive Dissanayake (fifth from left) and H. T. Peiris & Company Managing Partner, W A B Wimalisiri exchanging the MoU in the presence of (from left) HNB Undergraduate Trainee, Janani Gamage, HNB Trainee Banking Associate – SME, Nadun Thathsara, HNB Senior Manager – Business Banking & SME Partnerships, Jude Pillai, HNB Head of SME Products & Partnerships, N. Kethiswaran, H. T. Peiris & Company Business Partner, W M S Bandara, H. T. Peiris & Company Senior Audit Executive, K B P S De Silva.

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Sri Lanka’s South Coast says Ayubowan to BYD: Plans for establishment of new showroom and service centre facility

November 7, 2024, 3:07 am
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Strategic partnership with Aradhana Group marks a new phase in BYD’s nationwide expansion drive BYD, the world’s leading New Energy Vehicle (NEV) manufacturer together with its exclusive agent in Sri Lanka, John Keells CG Automotive (JKCG Auto) have entered into a partnership with the Aradhana Group to support its expansion to the island’s South Coast. Through the partnership, BYD and JKCG Auto aim to establish BYD’s first integrated 3S facility (Showroom, Service Center, and Spare Parts) in Galle, strategically located in close proximity to the Southern Expressway access road. “This partnership is paving the way for the establishment of a state-of-the-art BYD 3S showroom in Galle. With the launch of this facility in the first quarter of 2025, we will cross another important milestone in our continuing mission to accelerate the adoption of NEVs across the island. “As one of the most vibrant hotspots for tourism and hospitality, we see immense potential for commercial and retail customers to leverage BYD’s unique value proposition to help shift the South Coast, and the entire island’s transportation landscape towards sustainable green mobility. This in turn will create tremendous economic and environmental benefits to all communities,” John Keells CG Auto General Manager – Automotive, Charith Panditharatne said. Upon completion, the new 3S facility – which will be equipped with cutting edge technology and a team of professionals specially trained and certified by BYD – will offer unparalleled convenience to customers travelling or residing along Sri Lanka’s picturesque South coast. “As BYD continues to grow we are also working to transfer knowledge to a new generation of technicians and mechanics, helping them to gain secure and lucrative employment in the coming green mobility transition. Just like our presence in Colombo, we are also establishing an EV workshop, which will offer comprehensive training on the maintenance and repair of these vehicles,” “We believe that BYD can help to redefine green mobility for all Sri Lankans. Leveraging our latest partnership, with the Aradhana Group, we are excited to bring BYD’s cutting-edge NEV technology to the Southern region of Sri Lanka. Moving forward, we are committed to providing our customers with exceptional service and contributing to our nation’s shift towards a more sustainable future,” Panditharatne noted. Customers will also be provided easy access to BYD’s range of innovative electric vehicles (EVs), comprehensive after-sales services, and genuine spare parts—all under one roof. The new facility will also showcase BYD’s latest range of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, including models like the BYD DOLPHIN, ATTO 3, SEAL and SEALION 6. “We are grateful and honoured to have been selected as the regional dealer partner for BYD and JKCG Auto in Galle. Working together, we hope to raise awareness and appreciation for the powerful value that BYD passenger vehicles can offer,” Aradhana Group of Companies CEO, Lahiru Munasinghe.   Photo caption: John Keells CG Auto General Manager – Automotive, Charith Panditharatne and John Keells Holdings President Retail Sector, Charitha Subasinghe exchanging a MoU with Aradhana Group CEO, Lahiru Munasinghe and Director Sanduni Munasinghe.

The post Sri Lanka’s South Coast says Ayubowan to BYD: Plans for establishment of new showroom and service centre facility appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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Prima Supports the All Island School Games 2024

November 7, 2024, 3:24 am
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Prima has once again stepped forward as a proud supporter of the All Island School Games, one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated school-level sporting events, providing a robust platform for young athletes across the nation to showcase their talents. This year’s five-day competition, held at the Sugathadasa Stadium in Colombo, saw impressive achievements, with athletes setting 31 meet records and breaking four national junior and youth records—a testament to the event’s high standards and the participants’ dedication. In partnership with the Sports Branch of the Ministry of Education, Prima has supported national efforts to develop outstanding young sportsmen and sportswomen since 2010. Staying true to its commitment to make a positive impact, the company has provided much loved Prima Stella noodles free to over 6,000 student athletes participating in the event. By backing the All Island School Games, Prima reaffirms its commitment to nurturing Sri Lanka’s sports sector, aiming to foster a brighter future for youth in athletics. Through such initiatives, Prima remains focused on cultivating a new generation of Sri Lankan sports champions, striving to elevate young athletes to both national and international standards. Believing firmly in the transformative power of sports, Prima has been a consistent contributor to the growth of school sports. By investing in these promising athletes, the company is helping to shape not only individual futures but also the broader landscape of Sri Lankan athletics. Mr. Upali Amarathunga, Deputy Director (Sports) – Education Ministry, Ms. P. C. K. Pirisyala, Additional Secretary (Co-Curricular and Primary Education Development) – Education Ministry, accompanied by Mr. Achala Ramanayeka, Head of International Marketing and Business Development – Ceylon Agro Industries Ltd, Prima Group Sri Lanka, handing over the award for Boys Best Athlete to K. L. Ayomal Akalanka   Image Caption : Mr. Upali Amarathunga, Deputy Director (Sports) – Education Ministry, Ms. Samanthi Weerasinghe, Additional Secretary (Investigation) – Education Ministry, accompanied by Mr. Achala Ramanayeka, Head of International Marketing and Business Development – Ceylon Agro Industries Ltd, Prima Group Sri Lanka, handing over the award for Girls Best Athlete to H. A. N. M. Herath.

The post Prima Supports the All Island School Games 2024 appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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Standard Chartered is ‘Official Banking Partner’ at Sri Lanka Design Festival 2024

November 7, 2024, 3:30 am
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Standard Chartered is the Official Banking Partner for the prestigious event, Sri Lanka Design Festival (SLDF) 2024, the country’s most impressive celebration of creativity, design, and innovation. Organised by the Academy of Design (AOD), one of Sri Lanka’s leading design education institutes, the SLDF 2004 under the theme ‘Innovation Island’, is taking place at the Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams, Sri Lanka. The festival, celebrating its 15th anniversary, will feature a series of high-profile events including the headline event Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week (MBFW) featuring Sri Lanka’s leading design talent alongside South Asian designers, a cornerstone of the SLDF which celebrates the vital contribution of creative industries in powering economic resurgence and social transformation. The partnership between Standard Chartered and SLDF is driven from a mutual dedication to excellence, innovation, and sustainable practices. The alliance reinforces the Bank’s status in premium banking while connecting with fashion’s most sophisticated and creative forces, establishing a powerful presence in both sectors. Standard Chartered Sri Lanka CEO, Bingumal Thewarathanthri, said, “Standard Chartered is proud to support the Sri Lanka Design Festival and Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, an initiative that mirrors our commitment to innovation, excellence, inspiring global connections and sustainability. The partnership offers clients an exclusive experience and unique opportunities that go beyond traditional banking. We believe that fashion and design, can be dynamic and impactful, creating new possibilities for those we serve.” Standard Chartered recognises the growing interest of its clients in the fashion industry and the broader creative economy. The Bank is dedicated to supporting the aspirations of discerning clientele, providing bespoke wealth management and personalised financial services that cater to their unique needs. AOD Founder and Chairperson, Linda Speldewinde added, “We are extremely pleased to collaborate with Standard Chartered as our ‘Official Banking Partner’ for SLDF 2024. The Bank’s support will enhance the festival’s reach and impact while providing valuable opportunities for attendees to connect with a leading financial institution that shares our vision for innovation and sustainability.” The Bank’s clientele will also enjoy exclusive access to events, along with opportunities to connect with industry influencers and a global audience.  

The post Standard Chartered is ‘Official Banking Partner’ at Sri Lanka Design Festival 2024 appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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One Galle Face Toasts to Five Years of Hosting People to the Colorful Joys of Life and Celebrates with Singapore Airlines

November 7, 2024, 3:56 am
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One Galle Face (OGF) toasts to five years of celebrating the colourful joys of life here in the heart of Sri Lanka. As the leading shopping complex on the island, the dynamic mall commemorates five years of delivering on its brand promise of delivering the best-loved hospitality in every moment across live, work and play, bringing unparalleled family, shopping, dining and entertainment experiences to Sri Lanka. One Galle Face is a member of the Shangri-La Group, who are pioneers of Asian hospitality and one of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands. The shopping complex opened its doors and welcomed guests for the first time in the heart of Colombo on 08 November 2019. “As we reflect on five years of hosting people to the colorful joys of life here in Colombo, we want to thank our guests and dedicated staff for the continued support over the years. Despite the challenges in recent years, One Galle Face is proud to uphold the resilient spirit of Sri Lanka, while delivering a world class shopping experience and creating memorable moments. As we mark five years, we are not just celebrating our past but looking towards the future as we embark on an exciting new chapter,” said Mr. Sid Solanki, Centre Director of One Galle Face. To celebrate this milestone, One Galle Face has proudly partnered with Singapore Airlines to bring visitors an elevated shopping experience filled with exclusive rewards and world-class experiences. This collaboration offers our valued shoppers a unique opportunity to enjoy a blend of luxury and excitement, including chances to win exclusive prizes, travel perks, and curated experiences that reflect the best of One Galle Face’s global and local appeal. With Singapore Airlines by our side, we look forward to making this anniversary celebration truly unforgettable for our loyal visitors. “Singapore Airlines has been providing air services between Sri Lanka and Singapore for more than 5 decades. At Singapore Airlines, service excellence is deeply ingrained in our DNA, and we are committed to delivering a world-class experience to our customers. Therefore, we are delighted to celebrate this milestone. We wish One Galle Face many more years of success,” said Mr. Biren Poh, General Manager Sri Lanka, Singapore Airlines Ltd. One Galle Face has curated a series of experiences for visitors to explore the best the mall has to offer, seamlessly blending fun, excitement and quiet sophistication with a local touch. A World of Colorful Joys Step into a world of colorful joys at the Level 1 Ocean Atrium which has been transformed into a playscape with slides, ball pit, and photo opportunities for kids and adults who are young at heart! Redeem your OGF points to enter and make joyous memories. Available until 09th November 2024, from 10:00 am to 09:30 pm | Burn 100 OGF Points per person or 350 OGF points for a group of 4. The Big Birthday Sale One Galle Face is celebrating five incredible years with a BIG Birthday Sale on 08th November only. Enjoy 5 times the fun at half the price across the entire mall with up to flat 50% off on selected items! T&C Apply. Double Your Points Double up on your OGF Rewards and unlock 2x the points only on 08th and 09th November. Make the most of this limited-time boost and enjoy the rewards! Spend & Win Unwrap a World of Colorful Joys! Spend LKR 50,000 or more and stand a chance to win amazing gifts from our partner brands with exclusive dining experiences from Cucina, Bombay Borough, Chili’s and Basilur Lounge, as well as a staycation at Shangri-La Colombo. For more information about One Galle Face’s 5-year anniversary, please follow us on our social media platforms, @onegallefaceofficial (Instagram and Facebook) and One Galle Face (LinkedIn).

The post One Galle Face Toasts to Five Years of Hosting People to the Colorful Joys of Life and Celebrates with Singapore Airlines appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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C.W. Mackie PLC Triumphs as Champions in the Mercantile Football League Division III -2024

November 7, 2024, 7:00 pm
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    In a historic victory, C. W. Mackie PLC claimed the championship title in the Mercantile Football League (MFL) 2024 Division III. The championship, organised by the Mercantile Football Association, was held on 4th November 2024 at the Weerasinghe Mallimarachchi Grounds, Madinagoda, marking C. W. Mackie’s first-ever tournament triumph in the company’s history. Throughout seven matches, C. W. Mackie PLC’s team distinguished themselves as the highest goal-scoring side in the division, establishing themselves as the team to beat in this year’s league. In the semi-finals, C. W. Mackie faced a tough challenge against Commercial Bank, prevailing in a well-fought match that secured their spot in the highly anticipated finals against HSBC. With focus and teamwork, C. W. Mackie delivered a thrilling performance in the championship match, defeating HSBC and securing their place as the 2024 Division III champions. C.W. Mackie PLC’s win sets a new benchmark for corporate sports and serves as an inspiration for future teams. With this landmark achievement, the company celebrates its success and anticipates an even brighter future for both its football team and its broader workforce.

    The post C.W. Mackie PLC Triumphs as Champions in the Mercantile Football League Division III -2024 appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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    Dialog Axiata Rebounds in Q3, Delivering Growth in Core Revenue and Profitability

    November 7, 2024, 9:43 pm
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    • Group Revenue gained momentum as core Revenue grew 6% both YTD and QoQ
    • EBITDA Reached Rs45.1Bn up 1% YTD and up 33% QoQ
    • Total Taxes Paid to GoSL Rs35.1Bn for nine months ending 30th September 2024 which included Rs8.6Bn in Direct and Rs26.5Bn in Indirect Taxes
    • Net Profit reported at Rs4.5Bn for Q3 2024, up >+100% QoQ
    • Operating Free Cash Flow up 35% YTD and 7% QoQ
    • Capex Investments of Rs14.5Bn

    Dialog Axiata PLC announced, Thursday 7th November 2024, its consolidated financial results for the nine months ended 30th September 2024. Financial results included those of Dialog Axiata PLC (the “Company”) and of the Dialog Axiata Group (the “Group”).

    The Group completed the amalgamation with Bharti Airtel Lanka (Private) Limited (“Airtel”) during the quarter under the applicable provisions of the Companies Act, with Dialog remaining as the surviving entity. This marks the official cessation of Airtel as a corporate entity, effective 30th August 2024, with its operational performance fully subsumed and consolidated within Dialog’s financial statements.

    The Group1 delivered a strong performance across Mobile, Fixed Line, Digital Pay Television, International and Tele-infrastructure businesses recording a positive core Revenue growth of 6% Year to Date (“YTD”). Excluding revenue from Airtel Lanka, YTD core Revenue growth was at 3%. Group Revenue reached Rs125.4Bn down 10% mainly resulting from the scaling down of low margin international wholesale business. The Q3 2024 Revenue was recorded at Rs42.8Bn up 5% Quarter-on-Quarter (“QoQ”). Excluding Airtel Lanka, Q3 2024 Revenue was down 3% QoQ albeit up 6% QoQ on Core Revenue basis. The Group Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation and Amortisation (“EBITDA”) reached Rs45.1Bn up 1% YTD supported by top line performance. On a QoQ basis Group EBITDA demonstrated a strong recovery to record at Rs18.1Bn up 33% QoQ with an EBITDA margin of 42.0% as Cost Rescaling Initiatives yielded positive results. Group EBITDA margin reached 35.9% for first nine months of 2024, up 4.4pp.

    Group Net Profit After Tax (“NPAT”) reached Rs.4.5Bn for Q3 2024 up >+100% QoQ and 45% Year on Year (“YoY”) while the NPAT was recorded at Rs5.7Bn for first nine months of 2024, down 62% YTD which predominantly resulted from significantly higher favourable forex movement in 2023. Normalized for forex, PAT was down 54% YTD to record at Rs1.9Bn for the first nine months of 2024, owing to higher Deprecation, dilution from Airtel consolidation and Taxation.

    Dialog Group continued to be a significant contributor to state revenues, remitting a total of Rs35.1Bn to the Government of Sri Lanka (GoSL) during the first nine months of 2024. Total remittances included Direct Taxes and Levies amounting to Rs8.6Bn and Rs26.5Bn in Consumption Taxes collected on behalf of the GoSL.

    The Group continued to support infrastructure investments to ensure seamless customer experience and leadership in Sri Lanka’s Broadband and ICT sectors. During the quarter Company completed the consolidation of Airtel’s 2G/4G radio networks thereby improving network experience to over 20Mn Dialog and Airtel Subscribers. The YTD capital expenditure reached Rs14.5Bn for the nine months ended 30th September 2024 down 32% YTD. Dialog Axiata Group recorded positive Operating Free Cash Flow (“OFCF”) of Rs18.3Bn for the first nine months of 2024, up over 35% YTD.

    Reinforcing the Group’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals, Dialog introduced DeafTawk interpreter services at its customer care centers island wide, a move poised to enhance the accessibility and user-friendliness of its services to the deaf community. Highlighting the company’s unwavering dedication to enhancing outreach for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), this initiative aligns with the GSMA Assistive Tech Programme, which drives inclusivity by improving access and use of mobile technologies and related services for PWDs.

    At an entity level, Dialog Axiata PLC (the “Company”) continued to contribute a major share of Group Revenue (66%) and Group EBITDA (67%). Company2 revenue was recorded at Rs82.7Bn for the first nine months of 2024 up 8% YTD and Rs31.1Bn for Q3 2024 up 19% QoQ, resulting from growth in Data segment. On the back of Revenue uplift and positive realizations from Cost Rescaling Initiatives, profitability improved as Company EBITDA was recorded at Rs30.3Bn, up 9% for the nine months ended 30th September 2024 and Rs12.8Bn for Q3 2024, up 44%. However, PAT was recorded at Rs3.2Bn for the first nine months of 2024, down 67% YTD, amid higher depreciation and significantly higher favourable forex impact in 2023. PAT recorded strong improvement for Q3 2024 to reach Rs3.6Bn, up >+100% QoQ underpinned by lower Depreciation, lower Net Finance Cost and favourable forex impact.

    Dialog Television (“DTV”), continued to consolidate its leadership position in the Digital Pay Television as the subscriber base being maintained at over 1.6Mn as of end Q3 2024. DTV revenue remained flat at Rs9.1Bn for nine months ended 30th September 2024, while on a QoQ basis revenue was up 2% to reach Rs3.0Bn for Q3 2024. DTV EBITDA was down 22% to reach Rs1.5Bn for the first nine months of 2024, due to escalation in transponder cost. Consequently, DTV PAT was recorded at a negative Rs706Mn for the nine months ended 30th September 2024 amid higher Depreciation and Net Finance Costs.

    Dialog Broadband Networks (“DBN”) featuring the Group’s Fixed Telecommunications, Broadband and International Businesses recorded Revenue of Rs38.2Bn and Rs10.1Bn for nine months ended 30th September 2024 and Q3 2024 respectively, down 35% YTD and 25% QoQ. The headline Revenue decline was due to the scaling down of low margin international wholesale business. DBN EBITDA recorded a marginal decline of 2% YTD to reach Rs12.5Bn for nine months ended 30th September 2024 while NPAT reached Rs2.8Bn for the same period, down 21% YTD.

    1Group performance includes Bharti Airtel Lanka Private Limited performance from 1st July 2024 onwards.

    2Company performance includes Bharti Airtel Lanka Private Limited performance from 1st July 2024 onwards.

    Photo – David Nai Pek Lau (Chairman/Non-Independent, Non-Executive Director) & Supun Weerasinghe (Director / Group Chief Executive)

    The post Dialog Axiata Rebounds in Q3, Delivering Growth in Core Revenue and Profitability appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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    Singapore Press Club Delegates Explore Sri Lanka with SriLankan Airlines

    November 7, 2024, 9:48 pm
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    Delegates from the Singapore Press Club recently visited Sri Lanka, with SriLankan Airlines collaborating with the Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore as the airline partner for the group’s tour. During their visit, they were welcomed by the Head of Worldwide Sales, Dimuthu Tennakoon, and the SriLankan Airlines Corporate Communications team, who shared insights into the airline’s operations between Colombo and Singapore. The delegation also met with key government officials and prominent business leaders to discuss opportunities for enhancing cooperation between the two nations. The delegates explored Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, including a visit to a renowned tea plantation and other iconic attractions across the island. The trip highlighted the importance of fostering goodwill, with SriLankan Airlines playing a vital role in connecting the two nations and boosting tourism ties. The Singapore Press Club is an active networking organization that brings together media professionals in Singapore, including those from digital, print, and broadcast media, as well as public relations and corporate communications.

    The post Singapore Press Club Delegates Explore Sri Lanka with SriLankan Airlines appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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    Stigmata ready to Raise a Storm with Dubai Tour at ‘Desert Inferno XXVIII’

    November 7, 2024, 10:18 pm
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    Sri Lankan heavy metal pioneers Stigmata are once again set to proudly represent Sri Lanka on the international stage at “Desert Inferno XXVIII” organized by Resurrection Metal Events Dubai at the Bar Baar: Occidental Hotel – Al Jaddaf in Dubai on 7th December 2024. Headlining Desert Inferno XXVIII would be Thrash Metal band Evile from the UK. Formed in 2004, Evile has been recognized as being part of the thrash metal resurgence of the mid-to-late 2000s. The band has released six studio albums to date including Enter the Grave (2007), Infected Nations (2009), Five Serpent’s Teeth (2011), Skull (2013), Hell Unleashed (2021) and The Unknown (2023). Stigmata, with their Progressive Metal sounds, will be sharing the stage with other international bands Project Renegade of Greece (Modern Metal), Lecsa Punk of Hungary (Hardcore Punk) as well as two UAE bands Prosecuted (Thrash Metal) and Afterburner (Metal). This event is expected to raise Stigmata’s profile in the Middle East and will pave the way for the band to tour the region, and other parts of the world, in the months and years to come. This is Stigmata’s first international performance since 2016 and comes at the perfect time as the band prepares to celebrate its milestone 25th Anniversary in 2025. To mark the momentous occasion the band is currently putting the finishing touches to its fifth studio album having already tasted success with four outstanding albums ‘Hollow Dreams (2003)’, ‘Silent Chaos Serpentine (2006)’, ‘Psalms of Conscious Martyrdom (2010)’, and ‘The Ascetic Paradox (2015)’. During 2024, Stigmata returned to the stage in a big way by jamming at several popular venues around the city of Colombo to packed, diverse audiences from different ages, ethnicities and backgrounds brought together by their love for metal music. Suresh de Silva, frontman, vocalist and lyricist of Stigmata stated, “After the last of our recent shows at The Joint, we took a break to prepare for this highly-anticipated Dubai gig and also focus on completing our fifth album. With the celebration of our 25th anniversary next year and the release of our fifth album, we are planning to do more shows in Sri Lanka and more foreign tours during 2025/26.” Suresh also revealed about the departure of their longstanding band member and close friend Thisara Dhananjaya who is seeking greener pastures abroad. He added, “Thisara was an instrumental part of the band, not just as a performer, but also as a graphics designer, videographer, social media wizard and much more. We are thankful to him for giving everything to the band during the past several years. We are going to miss him terribly and we wish all the best for the next chapter in his life.” The band is however elated that Dilshan Perera (Darkside Down, Sevexth, Kryton) has stepped in as the new face of bass, and is adding a whole new vibe and element of tightness to the band’s musical backbone. Stigmata is the country’s first original heavy metal band formed that has constantly evolved and demonstrated longevity unlike any other band in its genre purely by producing and delivering amazing music, powerful lyrics and outstanding live stage performances. Stigmata has proudly taken Sri Lanka to the world and made its mark in several countries including Australia, Malaysia, Dubai, New Zealand, India, Bangladesh, the Maldives and many more.

    The post Stigmata ready to Raise a Storm with Dubai Tour at ‘Desert Inferno XXVIII’ appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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    Curfox, Parallax Technologies’ AI-Powered Delivery Management Software wins Gold at National ICT Awards 2024

    November 7, 2024, 10:21 pm
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    Curfox, the flagship e-commerce delivery management software developed by Parallax Technologies (Pvt) Ltd, a leading software development company in Sri Lanka, has won the Gold Award in the Supply Chain and Logistics category at the 2024 National ICT Awards (NBQSA) for its innovative approach to solving one of the biggest challenges in the e-commerce logistics industry, return rates. Curfox was also celebrated as the Overall Silver Winner across all categories while Parallax CEO and Founder Namal Attanayake was honored as the ICT Entrepreneur of the Year.  Curfox’s win at NBQSA marks its second consecutive recognition at the event, having received the Silver Award 2023 and now achieving Gold in 2024. Curfox was also recognised at Asia Pacific ICT Alliance Awards 2023. Curfox serves as a valuable bridge between courier companies and e-commerce merchants, similar to how ride-hailing platforms connect drivers and customers. Its AI-powered delivery success rate predictor is a standout feature, and it’s the first of its kind in Sri Lanka. By analyzing various factors, such as product details, customer purchase history, and market behavior, this tool helps merchants and couriers anticipate the likelihood of a product being returned. This predictive feature improves customer experience by reducing return rates as well as benefits merchants and delivery providers by ensuring smoother delivery operations. Designed to support a range of delivery service providers, from independent couriers to in-house teams, Curfox simplifies and automates the delivery process from start to finish. It offers separate portals for all stakeholders, including merchants, couriers, riders and customers providing them real-time insights. Founded in 2014, Parallax has grown into a trusted software solutions provider with a strong presence in Sri Lanka and across multiple countries. Known for delivering innovative, customer-focused platforms, Parallax specializes in creating reliable and market-proven software solutions tailored to diverse industry needs.   Image Caption – Namal Attanayake (CEO and Founder of Parallax Technologies), Kasun Bandara (Software Engineer), Prabath Wijewaradhane (Software Engineer)

    The post Curfox, Parallax Technologies’ AI-Powered Delivery Management Software wins Gold at National ICT Awards 2024 appeared first on Adaderana Biz English | Sri Lanka Business News.

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