People’s Bank PBIBU named Best Investment Bank in Sri Lanka for 2026

Deputy General Manager – Treasury, International and Investment 

Shameela Senaratne Loku Kaluge 

• Deputy General Manager – Treasury, International and Investment Shameela Senaratne Loku Kaluge shares insights to success and future growth

People’s Bank Investment Banking Unit (PBIBU) was honoured with the prestigious “Best Investment Bank Sri Lanka 2026” award at the 2026 Global Banking and Finance Review Awards, presented by Global Banking and Finance Review. This interview with People’s Bank Deputy General Manager (Treasury, International and Investment), Shameela Senaratne Loku Kaluge, focuses on this achievement.

Q: PBIBU was awarded as the “Best Investment Bank Sri Lanka 2026” by Global Banking and Finance Review. What does this award mean for People’s Bank?

A: This recognition underscores People’s Bank’s growing role as a key facilitator within Sri Lanka’s capital markets. It reflects not only the strength of our technical capabilities and execution discipline, but also our ability to connect capital with opportunity in a meaningful way. More importantly, it signals the trust placed in us by clients and stakeholders to support their long-term financial objectives.

Q: PBIBU has won this award several times. What has driven this continued success?

A: Consistency at this level is the result of a disciplined and forward-looking approach. Our focus has been on understanding client needs in a broader strategic context, rather than treating transactions in isolation. Combined with strong market awareness, rigorous execution standards, and a team that continuously evolves with changing financial dynamics, this has enabled us to maintain momentum and relevance in a competitive landscape.

Q:  PBIBU has managed many landmark transactions in Sri Lanka. Could you highlight some key achievements?

A: Over the years, we have played a pivotal role in several milestone transactions that have contributed to broadening Sri Lanka’s capital market landscape. Our track record includes 33 listed debenture issuances and one equity IPO, collectively mobilising over Rs. 225 billion, reflecting both scale and consistency in execution.

Key transactions include the inaugural listed debenture of a licenced specialised bank, the first unlisted debenture issuance by People’s Bank, the pioneering listed debenture issue for a state-owned enterprise that was the largest debenture issue in Sri Lanka at the time, the first debenture issuance by a listed plantation sector company with a sinking fund, and the largest debenture issuance by a non-banking financial institution.

In March 2026, we reached a significant milestone with the successful completion of Sri Lanka’s largest debenture issue, mobilising Rs. 25 billion for People’s Bank through a Basel III-compliant, Tier 2, unlisted, rated, unsecured, subordinated, redeemable debenture. This issuance represents the highest amount raised through a debenture issue in Sri Lanka,  across both senior and subordinated instruments, whether listed or unlisted.

Q: What new opportunities do you see for investment banking in Sri Lanka, and how is People’s Bank preparing for them?

A: Sri Lanka is entering a phase where capital markets are expected to play a more prominent role in financing growth. Opportunities are emerging across areas such as infrastructure development, structured financing, and increased participation from both local and foreign investors.

To position ourselves effectively, we are strengthening our capabilities across advisory, debt, and equity solutions, while also building partnerships that enhance market access. Our focus is on offering more integrated solutions that align with the evolving funding needs of businesses and institutions.

Q: How important is innovation and digital transformation in the future of investment banking?

A: Innovation and digital capability are becoming central to how investment banking services are delivered. They enable greater efficiency in execution, improve the quality of insights through better use of data, and enhance risk management frameworks.

Beyond operational improvements, digital transformation also allows for more responsive and tailored solutions, helping institutions remain competitive in an increasingly complex financial environment.

Q: What message would you like to share with clients and stakeholders after this achievement?

A: We sincerely value the confidence our clients and stakeholders have placed in us. This recognition reinforces our commitment to continuously raise our standards and deliver solutions that create lasting value. As we move forward, our focus remains on supporting our clients’ growth ambitions while contributing to the development of a stronger and more resilient financial ecosystem in Sri Lanka.