The capital market is expanding its reach beyond major cities.
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) has opened its Kegalle Branch, strengthening its presence across the country. The move also improves public access to investment opportunities.
SEC Chairman Senior Professor D.B.P.H. Dissabandara, CSE Director Kosala Gamage, and CSE Chief Executive Officer Rajeeva Bandaranaike inaugurated the branch. Senior representatives from the public and private sectors also attended the event.
With this opening, CSE now operates branches across all nine provinces.
Branches already operate in Matara, Kandy, Kurunegala, Negombo, Jaffna, Batticaloa, Anuradhapura, Ratnapura, Panadura, and Bandarawela. Now, Kegalle joins this expanding network.
Expanding Investor Access
The new branch will provide several services to investors.
For example, it will support CDS account opening, access to stockbroker firms, and investor education workshops. It will also provide personalised guidance for individuals exploring the stock market.
Therefore, investors in the region can now access capital market services more easily.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, CSE CEO Rajeeva Bandaranaike highlighted the economic potential of the region.
He noted that Kegalle has a strong agricultural base and many active small and medium-scale enterprises.
According to him, the new branch will help guide individuals and businesses towards investment opportunities and financial growth.
Supporting SME Growth
Meanwhile, SEC Chairman Senior Professor D.B.P.H. Dissabandara said the Kegalle branch is the 11th regional branch of the CSE.
He stressed that expanding the exchange’s physical presence increases public participation in the capital market.
In addition, the branch can accommodate up to six stockbrokers. This allows investors to receive direct advice and guidance.
He also noted that the capital market aims to increase the number of listed companies from 289 to 500 within the next three years.
According to him, the Kegalle region has strong potential for SMEs to raise capital through the stock exchange.
Therefore, the new branch can play an important role in connecting local businesses and investors with the capital market.
Last modified: March 11, 2026
