CFA Capital Market Awards a springboard for equity research profession

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Softlogic Stockbrokers Manager – Equity Research Shadini Silva and Head of Research Mahesh Udugampala

Softlogic Capital MD Iftikar Ahamed

The ninth annual CFA Capital Market Awards organised by CFA Society Sri Lanka – scheduled for June this year – looks to recognise and reward professionals who have established benchmarks for the advancement of domestic capital market participants.

In the lead up to the event, the CFA Society shines a light on winning entities from the 2021 edition of the awards, giving voice to valuable insights from participating over the years.

The Best Equity Research Report is one of five major accolades presented at the CFA Capital Market Awards. Through this, CFA Society Sri Lanka aims to reward and recognise analysts producing best-in-class research, and promote best practices in fundamental equity research and an informed, efficient capital market.

Softlogic Stockbrokers was bestowed the Gold award in the Best Equity Research Report category for 2021.

Softlogic Capital PLC Managing Director Iftikar Ahamed said: “Softlogic Stockbrokers have taken part in the awards since its inception, winning a number of accolades over the years. Our research team at Softlogic Stockbrokers continuously strives to provide timely and relevant insights to both our investors and our internal investment decision makers. Therefore, we commend CFA Society Sri Lanka for recognising industry analysts and providing them the incentive to raise standards further.”

Softlogic Stockbrokers’ achievement at the Awards is mainly attributed to its report incorporating in-depth research, coupled with presenting it in a manner that was easy for investors to absorb and understand.

As for the benefit of winning the accolade, Softlogic Stockbrokers Head of Research Mahesh Udugampala says it confirms positive perceptions regarding the quality of work: “This award offers immense recognition as it’s conferred by CFA Society Sri Lanka. It cements the fact that our research is more reliable and accurate in the eyes of the investor.”

“The award also provides recognition for the credibility of the analyst and appreciates the hard work they put in,” adds Softlogic Stockbrokers Manager – Equity Research Shadini Silva.

Commenting on the role of the CFA Society, Udugampala states that further steps can be taken to improve financial literacy in the country: “CFA Society Sri Lanka has done a lot to develop the calibre of professionals working in the industry. For capital markets to develop there needs to be more investor participation, so greater awareness will prove key over the next couple of years.”

CFA Institute is a global association of investment professionals offering the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Its Sri Lankan membership of over 240 members consists of CEOs, CFOs, portfolio managers, equity analysts, banking professionals, investment advisors, and other senior-ranking financial practitioners.