NDB INVESTMENT BANK
We advocate for business-friendly reforms, providing insights and recommendations to shape policies that foster economic stability and growth
Director/CEO
Q: How would you describe your company’s journey and its most significant milestones in the last three decades?
A: Over the past three decades, NDB Investment Bank (NDBIB) has led Sri Lanka’s financial sector through innovation, leadership and resilience. We have pioneered financial products and structures, becoming the market leader in debt and equity capital markets.
Our achievements include executing the largest IPO to date and being the only local investment bank to manage IPOs overseas.
Recognised by Euromoney for 12 consecutive years as the Best Investment Bank in Sri Lanka, we have maintained high industry standards over the past 25+ year period.
Our commitment to providing exceptional value to clients continues to drive economic development and growth despite a dynamic economic environment.
Q: In your opinion, what is the role of corporates such as yours in reviving Sri Lanka’s economic and social landscape?
A: NDBIB facilitates capital raising for businesses through equity and debt instruments, driving industrial expansion, job creation and economic diversification. We also raise funds for financial institutions, enabling them to support development projects, promote financial inclusion and empower communities for sustainable economic growth.
Our innovative financial solutions – including structuring and issuing green bonds, and other sustainable instruments – attract global investment to Sri Lanka.
Collaborating with policy makers and industry stakeholders, we advocate for business-friendly reforms, providing insights and recommendations to shape policies that foster economic stability and growth.
Q: What is your outlook for Sri Lanka in the next five years?
A: Over the next five years, Sri Lanka is expected to focus on economic recovery and growth through fiscal discipline, monetary policy and debt management to maintain macroeconomic stability.
Efforts to diversify the economy into technology, services and manufacturing, alongside capitalising on exports, tourism and attracting foreign direct investments (FDI), will be crucial.
Political stability post-elections should support long-term economic strategies. Social development through investments in education, healthcare and targeted welfare programmes is essential. Substantial infrastructure investments and leveraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) will drive economic development.
With strategic planning and collaborative efforts, Sri Lanka has the potential for significant economic, social and infrastructural advancements, positioning itself as a resilient and dynamic nation in the region.
Q: How does NDBIB view the talent in the country in the wake of the brain drain?
A: Talent migration poses a significant challenge but we see it as an opportunity to innovate our talent management strategies. Investing in local talent through training and development, and collaborating with educational institutions, helps bridge skill gaps and attract young professionals.
The emergence of Gen Z brings fresh, tech savvy perspectives. We engage them with growth opportunities and meaningful projects.
Embracing new work norms including hybrid models enhances employee satisfaction and productivity, catering to diverse preferences and improving work-life balance, ultimately aiding in talent retention.
Q: What is your company’s philosophy regarding environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG)?
A: At NDBIB, our ESG philosophy focusses on sustainable development and responsible business practices. We minimise our environmental footprint by reducing waste and supporting aligned projects.
The NDB Capital Scholarship Trust, now in its 11th year, supports graduates of local universities in the fields of medicine, finance, engineering and law.
In 2023, as the first Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) licensed corporate finance advisor, we revised internal policies to meet new regulatory requirements. We adhere to NDB Capital’s corporate conduct framework, the CFA Code of Ethics and Standards, and industry best practices.
A strong compliance function within the company supervised by Group Compliance ensures adherence to relevant policies and ethical practices, and high standards of professional conduct.
Q: And what are NDBIB’s plans for the future?
A: NDBIB aims to play a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s recovery by assisting clients with expansion, innovation and sustainable development. We plan to broaden our global footprint, collaborating with intermediaries in South Asia, the Middle East and Africa to expand our distribution network and promote FDIs.
Committed to green and sustainable projects, we will finance renewable energy and eco-friendly infrastructure to ensure long-term economic resilience. Fostering PPPs is also a priority. We will continue to lead in innovation, offering clients and investors new financial solutions that meet their evolving needs.
Our ESG philosophy focusses on sustainable development and responsible business practices. We minimise our environmental footprint by reducing waste and supporting aligned projects
– Compiled by Indrajit Lankeshwara
Telephone: 2300385/0773 224924 | Email: darshan@ndbib.com | Website: www.ndbib.com
