People’s Leasing & Finance PLC (PLC) rang the opening bell to commence trading at the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) today. The market opening ceremony was organized as part of the Company’s celebrations to mark two decades in the financial services industry.

PLC’s Deputy Chairman Mr. Pradeep Amirthanayagam, Directors Mr. N. Vasantha Kumar, Mr. Johnson Fernando, Mr. M.A.M. Rizwan and CEO/GM Mr. D.P Kumarage participated at the ceremony, while the CSE was represented by Chairman Mr. Vajira Kulatilaka, CEO Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike and the senior management.

Mr. Vajira Kulatilaka, the Chairman of CSE congratulated PLC for celebrating what has been a successful 20 years and commended the Company for achieving phenomenal growth. He went on to note that the Company’s involvement in the development of the SME sector in particular is testament to the vital contribution PLC has made to the nation over the years.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Chairman at PLC, Mr. Pradeep Amirthanayagam stated “As a leading non-bank financial institution in Sri Lanka with an asset base of over Rs. 120 Bn and a net profit of Rs. 4 Bn we are proud to say that we have created value for both the market and the country and it is with utmost pride that we celebrate 20 years of existence today. Our brand is one of the most trusted and visible brands in the country and our high quality of service, governance and risk frameworks have steered us to success over the years.”

Mr. Amirthanayagam added, “We have undoubtedly earned the confidence and trust of all our stakeholders. Yet, we do not rest on past laurels, but continue to keep abreast and respond with professionalism to the changing circumstances and expectations. We have always been a benchmark in the industry with our exceptional results in every aspect and we are expecting to remain so whilst creating sustainable value for all our stakeholders in the upcoming years.”

CEO/GM at PLC Mr. D.P Kumarage, who also spoke at the event said, “In 2011 we took a bold step in listing our Company at the CSE and have since created consistent value through a strong focus on transparency and corporate governance. Winning the award for the best annual report in the past eight years illustrates our continued commitment in this regard.” Mr. Kumarage went on to thank the Company’s stakeholders for their trust and support over the years and pledged to build on the success of the past two decades.

Market Opening Ceremonies are conducted by the CSE to serve as a platform to generate exposure for listed companies as they celebrate important corporate milestones.