The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) has officially opened its Kegalle Branch to the public, further expanding its network across Sri Lanka. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC), Senior Professor D.B.P.H. Dissabandara, alongside the Director of the CSE, Mr. Kosala Gamage, and the CSE’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike. The event was attended by senior officials from both the public and private sectors.
With the launch of this new branch, the CSE has now established its presence in all nine provinces of Sri Lanka. The CSE’s branch network includes locations in Matara, Kandy, Kurunegala, Negombo, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Anuradhapura, Ratnapura, Panadura, Bandarawela, and now Kegalle.
Similar to its other branches, the Kegalle branch will offer a variety of services, including the opening of CDS accounts, access to stockbroker firms, investor educational workshops, and personalized guidance for navigating the stock market or addressing investment-related queries.
Speaking at the opening, Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike, CEO of CSE, noted, “Kegalle is a region known for its thriving agricultural sector as well as its vibrant small- and medium-scale enterprises. Today, we bring to you the Kegalle branch with the intention of guiding you towards your investment journey and financial prosperity.”
Senior Professor D.B.P.H. Dissabandara also highlighted that the opening of the CSE branch in Kegalle marks the establishment of the 11th branch, aimed at broadening access to the capital market across the country. He emphasized the importance of investor awareness and accessibility, stating that expanding the physical presence of the CSE allows for greater public participation in the capital market.
The new Kegalle branch, which can accommodate up to six stockbrokers, will facilitate closer engagement with investors and provide essential guidance, particularly for new investors. Professor Dissabandara also outlined a goal to increase the number of listed companies from 289 to 500 over the next three years, expressing confidence that the Kegalle region holds significant potential for SMEs to raise capital through the CSE. He noted that the branch will play a vital role in supporting businesses and investors within the local community.
Image Caption: Opening of the CSE Kegalle Branch.
