What changed
2026-08-25 08:15 UTC → 2026-09-16 06:54 UTC ·
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In early July By mid-September 2026, the rupee firmed to approximately 335 per US dollar, while Sri Lanka’s government bond yields edged higher and Treasury-bill sales remained strong. The Colombo Stock Exchange was largely flat, though the All Share Price Index securities saw a slight increase to 22,229.37 on July 3. During this period, the central bank reported a May current-account deficit continued trend of US$194 million, driven by higher fuel-import costs and foreign investment, with holdings increasing for seven consecutive weeks to reach approximately LKR 213.4 billion, a 20% rise in vehicle imports. Mid-July saw Sampath Bank launch a 10 billion-rupee green-bond programme with of about 13% and 13.25% coupons on five- and seven-year Basel III-compliant tier-2 notes. The exchange approved the issue, with over that period. However, the All Share Price Index fluctuating around 21,500. The Sri Lankan rupee hovered near 336 per dollar and bond yields remained steady. By the end of July, the market showed mixed signals: the All Share fell 0.12% while experienced a decline against the S&P SL20 edged up 0.07%. Gains were led by Dialog Axiata and Sampath Bank, while Commercial Bank US dollar, reaching a rate of Ceylon announced new Basel III-compliant debentures. The rupee steadied at 335.6–335.8 per dollar and bond yields slipped modestly. Sri Lanka Customs exceeded its July revenue target for the seventh consecutive month. By late August, the rupee strengthened further, moving from approximately 331.23 to 328.45/70 330.15/25 in the spot market. This appreciation depreciation coincided with a decline an upward movement in secondary market government bond yields for maturities between 2029 and 2036. Banking system liquidity rose to LKR 333.21 billion. While foreign investors remained net sellers on the Colombo Stock Exchange, their holdings of rupee-denominated government securities increased by 4.27% week-on-week. across various maturities.