Assetline Finance: Leading with purpose, driving inclusive growth

Chairman Nanda Fernando

Assetline Finance Ltd., the flagship company under the financial services pillar of David Pieris Holdings Ltd., has delivered one of its strongest performances to date for the financial year ended 31 March, reinforcing its position as one of Sri Lanka’s leading non-bank financial institutions. 

Anchored in a clear purpose of enabling inclusive finance and sustainable development, the Company achieved robust growth while empowering individuals, entrepreneurs, and communities across the country.

Guided by a strong customer-centric approach and strategic vision, Assetline Finance recorded a 14% increase in interest income, reaching Rs. 11.3 billion, up from Rs. 9.9 billion the previous year. Net interest income surged by 30% to Rs. 8.7 billion. Profit before tax rose by 96% to Rs. 5.6 billion, while profit after tax more than doubled to Rs. 2.7 billion—a 111% increase from the previous year.

Assetline Finance’s exceptional financial performance was matched by continued improvements in operational efficiency, disciplined risk management, and balance sheet strength.

The company’s total assets increased by 40% to Rs. 52.4 billion, while the lending portfolio grew by 46% to Rs. 42.7 billion, reflecting strong credit demand and effective portfolio management.

It maintained a robust Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) of 26.1%, well above the regulatory minimum, and strengthened its equity base by 15%, ensuring long-term financial resilience and investor confidence.

Asset quality also saw a marked improvement. The Gross Stage 3 Loan Ratio declined to 3.9%, while the Net Stage 3 Ratio dropped to 1.3%, both significantly outperforming industry averages.

One of the most notable operational achievements was the cost-to-income ratio, which improved to 36.76%, placing Assetline Finance among the most efficient financial institutions in the industry. This improvement reflects strong cost control, increased automation, and a commitment to operational excellence.

The company also recorded significant gains in profitability metrics. Return on Assets (ROA) before tax rose to 12.39%, while Return on Equity (ROE) after tax increased to 18.2%, underscoring efficient capital deployment and effective execution of strategy.

Through a network of 59 branches across Sri Lanka, Assetline Finance continued to expand access to financial services in both urban centres and underserved rural areas. The company remains a key enabler of first- and last-mile mobility solutions for rural communities, supporting livelihoods, connectivity, and local economic participation.

Recognising the vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in national development, Assetline Finance has prioritised access to affordable finance through working capital loans and asset-backed facilities. A key focus has also been on empowering women entrepreneurs, removing barriers to credit, enabling business growth, and supporting job creation.

Director and CEO Ashan Nissanka

In a significant milestone, the company secured a senior loan from the Japan ASEAN Women Empowerment Fund, managed by BlueOrchard Finance. This partnership underscores Assetline Finance’s commitment to gender-inclusive finance and marks a strategic step in empowering women-led businesses by expanding access to affordable capital, fostering entrepreneurship, and supporting inclusive economic growth.

The company is actively supporting Sri Lanka’s green transition through financing for solar energy adoption in homes and businesses. These initiatives promote environmental sustainability, reduce customer energy costs, and contribute to a more resilient energy future.

Assetline Finance takes pride in its contribution to the national economy. For the year under review, approximately 52% of its profits, amounting to Rs. 2.8 billion, were remitted as taxes. This underlines the company’s dedication to national development, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.

Director and CEO Ashan Nissanka stated: “Our strong financial results reflect the power of a purpose-driven strategy. At Assetline Finance, we go beyond numbers to make a tangible difference—empowering women, supporting SMEs, and enabling inclusive access to finance. As we look to the future, we will continue to innovate, grow responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and sustainability.”

Assetline Finance’s achievements are grounded in robust governance and the enduring values of the David Pieris Group. The company maintains the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency. Its recent credit rating upgrade to A with a Positive Outlook by Lanka Rating Agency reflects its financial strength, effective risk management, and operational resilience.