STANDARD CHARTERED’S NEXT CHAPTER IN SRI LANKA: FOCUSED ON GROWTH, CONNECTED TO THE WORLD
For over 130 years, Standard Chartered has been part of Sri Lanka’s financial sector, helping enable trade, connect businesses to international markets and bring global banking expertise to local clients.
Today, as Sri Lanka moves through economic recovery and reform, that role continues to evolve. “Standard Chartered’s focus on Corporate and Investment Banking reflects a clear strategic direction: to concentrate on areas where we can deliver our strongest and most distinctive value to clients, institutions and the wider economy. The divestment of our Wealth and Retail Banking business reflects a strategic decision, in line with our global strategy, to focus resources where we have the necessary scale and most distinctive proposition,” said Bingumal Thewarathanthri, CEO, Standard Chartered Sri Lanka.
Through Corporate and Investment Banking, Standard Chartered supports corporates, multinationals and financial institutions with transaction banking, financing, risk management, advisory and market solutions. In Sri Lanka, its Financial Institutions business plays a distinctive role as banker to local banks, offering cash and trade solutions that facilitate cross-border payments, liquidity and trade flows.
As a super-connector bank with a differentiated network across dynamic markets, including Asia, Africa and the Middle East, Standard Chartered connects Sri Lankan businesses and financial institutions to trade corridors, capital flows and investment opportunities beyond the island.
This role is especially important when international access and bank appetite matter most. Standard Chartered supports local banks with cross-border trade requirements, including letters of credit, guarantees and financing solutions. During COVID-19, the Bank helped finance vaccine imports and critical medical supplies through arrangements with state-owned banks and multilateral partners.
For local corporates with cross-border ambitions, the same network provides access to international markets, counterparties and financing expertise. Support spans trade, cash management, foreign exchange, risk management and capital solutions, helping clients structure transactions, manage liquidity and navigate complex global conditions.
The Bank’s continued commitment to Sri Lanka is rooted in both its history and future role. Its long-standing presence provides continuity, while its sharper Corporate and Investment Banking focus supports clients whose needs are increasingly sophisticated, international and linked to the country’s economic progress.
As Sri Lanka looks outward and builds confidence in its recovery, Standard Chartered remains a trusted partner to businesses, financial institutions and investors. Its purpose to drive commerce and prosperity, and brand promise of being Here for good, continue to shape its contribution – connecting Sri Lanka to the world, and the world to Sri Lanka.
