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Wednesday, November 4 2026
Wednesday, November 4 2026
MONETABRIEF – Profits at Sri Lanka's John Keells Holdings rose 213 percent to 5.1 billion rupees in the September quarter from a year earlier, helped by bunkering and property even as BYD sales came down from highs.
The group reported earnings of 29 cents per share. In the six months to September John Keells Holdings reported earnings of 30 cents per share on total profits of 5.2 billion rupees.
Group revenues fell 2 percent to 135.1 billion rupees, and insurance revenues went up 8 percent to 6.9 billion rupees.
Total revenue was down 2 percent to 142 billion rupees, cost of sales fell 2 percent to 115.8 billion rupees and gross profits were flat at 26.2 billion rupees.
Revenues from office automation and BYD sales fell to 2.3 billion rupees from 7.7 billion rupees with higher taxes and the end of pent-up demand easing.
The contribution of the transportation group increased by "very strong performance" in Lanka Marine Services, a bunkering firm and Colombo West International Terminal, Chairman Krishan Balendra said.
"Performance benefited from increased demand arising from supply chain disruptions associated with the conflict in the Middle East, while volatility in energy prices improved margins," he said.
Bunkering volumes had increased 31 percent with higher margins.
Beverages and confectionery volume grew with soft drinks up 10 percent and confectionery up 7 percent. But margins were hit by higher input costs and energy.
Prices were increased in convenience foods to support profitability.
Super markets EBITDA increased 1 percent, compared to last year. Same store sales grew 13 percent, with higher basket values and customer footfall.
The increase in basket values came from higher retail prices, particularly in foods, though the average number of units purchased per basket.
There were initiatives to promote fresh and prepared foods, despite some moderation of consumer discretionary spend amid inflation. (Colombo/Nov03/2026)
| 3 month bill | 9.26% | 1bp ▲ |
| 12-m bill | 9.95% | 2bp - |
| Gold (Ounce) | $4015 | - ▼ |
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