CSE Guide Book English

04-01 West Block, World Trade Centre
Echelon Square Colombo 1, Sri Lanka.

Tel: +94-11-2446581 (Hunting)
Email: info@cse.lk
www.cse.lk
INVESTING IN SHARES
A BASIC GUIDE
If you need any further information to get started, please contact the
Market Development Division of the Colombo Stock Exchange:
Table of Contents
About the Colombo Stock Exchange
03
Primer
07
About Wise Investors
09
Share Investment Matters
12
Buying and Selling Shares on the CSE
15
Are you categorized as a Foreign Investor?
19
Annex A: List of Stockbrokers and Custodian Banks 21

Annex B: Statistical Data
25
Mail
Call
Fax
Email
Web
:
:
:
Colombo Stock Exchange

#04-01 West Block
World Trade Centre
Echelon Square
Colombo 01
Sri Lanka
+ 94 11 2356456
+ 94 11 2446581
+ 94 11 2445279
info@cse.lk
www.cse.lk
Disclaimer
This booklet has been prepared by the CSE in good faith, solely for educational
purposes. Thus, the information contained herein is general in nature and should
not be treated as legal advice, tax advice, investment advice or recommendations
to buy or sell shares. The reader should seek independent professional advice with
regard to legal, tax and investment matters.
Whilst reasonable efforts have been made to include accurate and up-to-date
information in the booklet, the CSE does not make any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy, adequacy, reliability and completeness of the
information.
Therefore, the CSE and its employees disclaim all liability for any loss suffered
(directly or indirectly) by any person acting in reliance upon the information
contained herein.
Todays world is one in which

both financial literacy and the
ability to confidently make
independent investment
decisions are increasingly
more important for the general
public.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS MESSAGE

Welcome to the Colombo Stock Exchange!
Congratulations on choosing to learn about investing in shares and making the first step towards including shares in your
investment strategy. As the only share market operator in Sri Lanka we are dedicated to investor education and assisting
investors to familiarize themselves with shares as an investment option. You may already know that shares can be viewed
as an asset class which can help investors realize long term financial goals. Todays world is one in which both financial
literacy and the ability to confidently make independent investment decisions are increasingly more important for the
general public. For wise investing, knowledge is the keystone. It also helps if you are prepared to exercise some diligence,
discipline and common sense in making your investment choices. We hope that by reading this basic guide that you would
be encouraged to start a productive journey in share investment. It is our aim to provide you with a foundation from which
you can further explore the possibilities that the world of share investment can offer.
We wish you success in your investment journey.
Ms. Surekha Sellahewa
Chief Executive Officer
30th April 2012
Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

What is the Colombo Stock Exchange?
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) operates the only share market in Sri Lanka and is responsible for providing a transparent
and regulated environment where companies and investors can come together. The CSE is a company that is limited by
guarantee established under the Laws of Sri Lanka. The CSE is licensed by the Securities and Exchange Commission of
Sri Lanka (SEC) and is a mutual exchange consisting of 15 Members and 14 Trading Members. All Members and Trading
Members are licensed by the SEC to operate as Stockbrokers.
At present the CSE functions as a market operator and through its fully owned subsidiary, Central Depository Systems
(Pvt.) Limited (CDS), acts as a clearing and settlement system facilitator. The CSE also oversees compliance through a set of
rules, promotes standards of corporate governance among listed companies and is actively involved in educating investors.
In the course of its operations, the CSE interacts with many customers and stakeholders which include issuers (such as
companies, corporations and unit trusts), commercial banks, investment banks, fund managers, stockbrokers, financial
advisers, market data vendors and investors.
A brief history of the CSE

The CSEs origin story runs back to the 19th century. The trading of shares in limited liability companies began with the
inception of the Colombo Share Brokers Association (CSBA) in 1896. In 1904 the CSBA changed its name to the Colombo
Brokers Association (CBA).
The share market was opened to the public in July 1984 as the CBA recognised the importance of mobilizing local savings
to meet the capital requirements of the growing private sector of the country. A public trading floor was established with an
Open Outcry system of trading, instead of the Closed Door system of trading utilized previously.
In 1985, a formal stock exchange was established in Sri Lanka. It was then called the Colombo Securities Exchange (GTE)
Limited and in 1990 came to be known as the Colombo Stock Exchange.
The CSE was one of the first Exchanges in the region to have in place a depository for listed securities with the implimentation
of its clearing and settlement house and in 1991 successfully installed an automated electronic clearing and settlement
system-Central Depository System (CDS). The CSE introduced its Automated Trading System (ATS) in 1997. This has
enhanced the transparency and efficiency of the securities market in Sri Lanka. In recognition of the technology, systems
and regulation, the CSE was admitted to the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE) in 1998, becoming its first South Asian
member. It was also a founding member of the South Asian Federation of Exchanges (SAFE) in 2000.
In 1999, the CSE commenced the broadbasing of the stock market by establishing a regional office in Matara in the
Southern Province of Sri Lanka. In addition the CSE currently operates branches in Kandy, Kurunegala, Negombo and
Jaffna, providing access to regional investors.
With the near and medium term outlook strong for our economy, the position of the CSE as a conduit of investment has
become paramount. As per its Vision To be the preferred choice for creation of wealth and value the CSE endeavours to
continually improve and expand in its role as market developer and regulator.
Listing Platforms
Equity securities of a public company can be listed on either the Main or Diri Savi Board of the CSE. The Main Board
consists of companies which have a larger capital base while medium to small companies and start-up companies are listed
on the Diri Savi Board.
Price Indices
The CSE calculates two main Price Indices, namely, the All Share Price Index (ASPI) and the Milanka Price Index (MPI). Price
indices are also calculated for each of the 20 business sectors. Total Return Indices (TRI) are calculated to track the market
performance on a Total Returns basis. The TRI exceeds the scope of existing price indices (ASPI, MPI) and incorporates
returns from dividends into its computation. CSE publishes TRI based on the ASPI, MPI and the 20 Sector Price Indices.
Data Dissemination
Live market information is presently being disseminated through stockbrokers, information vendors, CSE branches, print
and electronic media. International financial press such as Reuters, Telekurs and Bloomberg also provide daily online
trading information to investors worldwide.
The CSE website www.cse.lk provides access to a comprehensive array of real time market information, order book
information and includes charts and graphs of market and company performance to help existing and potential investors
make informed investment decisions.
The website is designed to function as the primary communication channel of the CSE and most information on the website
is downloadable in Excel, CSV and XTML formats. The CSE website also facilitates fast access to individual listed company
profiles, as well as links to Online Trading platforms offered by Stockbroker firms.
A dedicated website for the CDS - www.cds.lk is also accessible by the general public.
Market Highlights
New Phase of Growth in 2010
The Sri Lankan equity market moved into a new phase of growth after the end of the three decade long war, in 2009. The CSE
was ranked the second best performing market in the world by Bloomberg that year.
Performance of Indices
(Jan 2008 - March 2012)
Index Values
9,000
8,000
7,000
6,000
5,000
4,000
With the economy also strengthening after the

cessation of the war and interest growing in the CSE
as an investment destination, market activity reached
unprecedented levels in year 2010. The CSE was again
ranked as the second best performing stock exchange in
the world by Bloomberg News and was also ranked the
top performing broad equity market index from among
members of the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE).
3,000
The rankings reflect the growth of the ASPI which

reflects the performance of the share market as a whole.
2,000
Jan-08
Feb-08
Mar-08
Apr-08
May-08
Jun-08
Jul-08
Aug-08
Sep-08
Oct-08
Nov-08
Dec-08
Jan-09
Feb-09
Mar-09
Apr-09
May-09
Jun-09
Jul-09
Aug-09
Sep-09
Oct-09
Nov-09
Dec-09
Jan-10
Feb-10
Mar-10
Apr-10
May-10
Jun-10
Jul-10
Aug-10
Sep-10
Oct-10
Nov-10
Dec-10
Jan-11
Feb-11
Mar-11
Apr-11
May-11
Jun-11
Jul-11
Aug-11
Sep-11
Oct-11
Nov-11
Dec-11
Jan-12
Feb-12
Mar-12
1,000
ASPI
MPI
Performance in 2011
After significant growth in two consecutive years 2009 and 2010, the equity market moved towards a more stable status in
2011.
The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI) recorded its highest level on 14th February 2011 and closed the year at 6,074.4
points recording a negative YoY growth of 8.5%. The Milanka Price Index (MPI) which follows the growth of 25 selected
companies, recorded a negative growth of 25.9% during 2011 closing the year at 5,229.2.
The table below shows the records achieved during the years 2011 and 2010 as reflected by the ASPI and MPI and various
indicators of market size, value and volume growth such as market capitalization, turnover and number of transactions
executed.
Records Achieved*
Description
Level Reached
Date
Highest ASPI
7,811.8
14th Feb 2011
Highest MPI
7,829.1
01st Oct 2010
Rs. 570.3 Bn
2010
Rs. 2,396.3 Mn
2010
4.58 Mn
2011
49,921
18th Aug 2011
Rs. 2,600.6 Bn
14th Feb 2010
Highest Annual Turnover

Highest Average Daily Turnover
Highest Annual No. of Transactions
Highest No. of Trades for a Trading Day
Highest Market Capitalization
Source: Colombo Stock Exchange
*Records achieved up to last practicable date to publication of this document which is 30th April 2012
Committed to Growth
The CSEs strong commitment to Sri Lankas development activities has been the basis of its growth and evolvement as a
conduit for resources of savers and investors. As at the date of publication the CSE is home to 279 listed companies.
During the year 2011 the CSE was a significant source of finance for these companies and helped raise a total of approximately
Rs. 47.2 Bn through Initial Public Offerings (IPO) and Rights Issues. Rs.19.2 Bn in the year 2011 is the highest amount raised
through IPOs.
In considering the manner in which the CSE has transformed

we can consider some selected indicators:
Annual Turnover
Rs. Bn
700
Turnover
570.3
600
546.3
500
400
300
200
105.2
100
105.0
110.5
07
08
142.5
81.7
0
06
09
10
11
12(Q1)
Market Capitalization as a % of GDP

%
45
39.5%
40
33.8%
35
29.8%
30
25
24.6%
22.9%
22.6%
20
15
11.1%
10
5
0
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
Turnover Velocity
The CSE generated an equity turnover of Rs. 546.2 Bn

during the year 2011 and in 2010 the turnover was Rs.570.3
Bn the highest trading activity in CSE history, surpassing
the previous record of Rs. 142.5 Bn for the year 2009. At the
rate of over 303.7%, the growth in the turnover (in USD)
of the CSE was ranked the highest among all member
exchanges of the WFE in the year 2010.
Market Capitalization
The listed wealth or Market Capitalization of the CSE stood
at Rs. 2,213.9 Bn as at the end of 2011 reflecting a slight
increase of 0.15% over the previous year. However, in USD
terms, the Market Capitalization of 2011 has recorded a
negative YoY growth of 2.4%.
The preservation of Market Capitalization was a challenge
faced by the exchanges in the world amongst market
downturns. For example among WFE member exchanges,
it was only five exchanges that were able to preserve their
Market Capitalizations even with new listings during 2011.
YoY Market Capitalization as a percentage of GDP which
is an indicator of the relative size of listed wealth of a
country improved from 22.6% in 2009 to 39.5% in 2010
and in 2011 it stood at 33.8%. On 31st March 2012, the
Market Capitalization stood at Rs. 2,012.87 Bn reflecting a
negative 17.0% decrease from 31st March 2011 which was
Rs. 2,425.05 Bn.
(Turnover as % of Average Market Capitalization)
Turnover Velocity
%
50
40
34.5%
30
24.7%
20
14.8%
16.9%
18.0%
08
09
12.7%
10
0
06
07
10
11
The CSE has shown a decline in the level of market

liquidity, as measured by the Turnover Velocity. Turnover
Velocity is calculated as Turnover divided by Average
Market Capitalization. Turnover Velocity decreased from
34.5% in 2010 to 24.7% in 2011.
The declining trend of liquidity is also evident in other
regional exchanges. In comparison to many developed
markets, these indicators are on the lower end, showing
that the CSE has room to grow and has leveraged on the
opportunities available as reflected by the improvements
achieved in the past five years.
The CSE aims at taking up this challenge by pursuing improvements in several areas including market development,
infrastructure, regulation and risk management. It is the CSEs aim to enhance competitiveness and visibility of the Sri
Lankan share market by capturing a diverse customer base of which we hope you will be a part.
Primer
Why Shares Specifically?
You may have already heard or read that over a long term, investments in shares outperform most other investments. A
properly managed equity investment portfolio that minimizes manageable risk and maximized returns, will make a good
investment vehicle to surpass inflation which is the common enemy of all the investment vehicles.
What are shares?

A share is simply a part ownership of a company. It represents a unit in the capital of the company. When you own one or
more shares in a company, you are called a shareholder. In return for investing in the company, shareholders can receive
dividends and other benefits such as the right to vote at general meetings of shareholders.
Why do companies issue shares? Equity Capital and Debt Capital busineses
Companies issue shares to raise money from investors in order to finance and grow businesses. Such finances can be
borrowed or raised by issuing shares. The company can raise funds by borrowing from a bank or by issuing bonds. These are
classed as debt capital. The money that a company raises by issuing shares to investors is called equity capital.
Unlike debt capital which is borrowed money which needs to be paid back to the party from which it is borrowed, equity
capital represents continuous ownership of the company and therefore does not need to be repaid. By becoming an owner
or shareholder of a company you assume the risk of the company not being successful. Ofcourse it is equally important to
recognise that shareholders earn a lot if a company is successful.
What are listed companies and what does going public mean?
Sometimes a company chooses to raise finances by being listed on a stock exchange and issuing shares to investors. This is
called going public. The process of being listed enables shares of a company to be traded on that countrys stock exchange.
These companies are called listed companies. They need to be in compliance with a particular Exchanges set of listing rules
which may set out requirements such as previous profit records, issued/paid up capital, minimum numbers of shareholders
and various disclosures to be made to the public, in order to be admitted to the official list.
What types of shares are there?

A company can issue different types of shares such as ordinary shares, non-voting shares and preference shares to name a
few. In addition a company can issue any type of share which the laws of the country it is incorporated in allows.
Ordinary Shares
Ordinary shares are by far the most common form of equity security. Ordinary shares offer the investor both the right to vote
at the companys General Meetings and the entitlement to a share of dividends declared. The combination of entitlement to
a share of the companys profits and control means that, ordinary shareholders are the owners of a company.
In the event the company is liquidated, shareholders will be settled after all the creditors, depositors and debt holder dues
have been settled.
Non-Voting Ordinary Shares

These shares have the same characteristics of ordinary shares, except the right to vote at the companys General Meetings.
Preference Shares
These are shares which guarantee priority in the payment of dividends at a predetermined rate. This means that the
preference shareholder has a claim on the companys earnings before an ordinary shareholder. Preference shares do not
entitle the holder to any voting rights. In the event of liquidation, preference shareholders will have priority settlement over
ordinary shareholders.
Why do Investors Buy Shares?

Shares for Diversification
Because there is an element of risk in any investment most investors utilize diversification as a strategy to reduce and
manage risk. The famous investment adage dont put all your eggs in one basket is the best way to understand what
diversification is.
In the context of investment this means that to minimize risk an investor has to diversify investments across various
investment products. This is because the performance of markets, shares and certain other investments follow cycles.
A savvy investor will not limit his investments to one asset class. Some investors fall into the trap of putting all their money
into one asset class usually at its peak, and then watch as another asset class takes off. It is better to diversify-spreading
your risk, enjoying the upturns in market, rather than trying to time the market.
If equities are your sole investment, it makes sense to diversify between different companies and sectors. In this way, loss
made on some investments can be absorbed by gains made in others, keeping the overall return on investments positive.
Shares for Capital Growth

Capital growth is the increase in a value of a particular type of asset over time. People invest in shares because they offer the
possibility that share prices will rise. In fact studies have shown that over the long term horizon investment in shares has
provided greater returns than most other forms of savings or investments.
Owning a share with a rising value allows you to grow your investment. In addition, they are either paid dividends and
dividend re-investment plans which can multiply the capital growth effect of a share investment.
Shares for Dividends

Dividends are returns paid to shareholders out of the companys net profits in terms of cash or shares. It is a way in which
shareholders are rewarded for providing capital. Dividends are usually paid once or twice a year depending upon the
companys profit distribution policy. The rate of dividend paid too can vary depending on whether the company is trying to
establish itself, in which case the rate would be lower. In comparison to a mature company which may opt to pay a higher
rate, again depending on its policy of dividend payment.
Tax Benefits
In Sri Lanka there are no taxes on capital gains arising from shares which are traded on the CSE. No withholding tax or
stamp duties are charged on share trading transactions which are conducted through the ATS.
Please note however that a withholding tax of 10% is charged on dividend income. In addition please note that a 0.3% share
transaction levy is payable on the value of all secondary market transactions conducted through the ATS.
Shares for Liquidity and Flexibility

Many investments are reasonably illiquid, which means they cannot be immediately sold and easily converted into cash.
Shares give an investor a considerable amount of financial control because of their flexibility and liquidity. In particular
ordinary shares are often considered the most liquid of investments. Unlike assets such as property one does not incur
significant transaction costs or have to spend a considerable amount of time to buy and sell shares. A share transaction
takes three days to settle. There is also a convenience of divisibility in shares. For example if you own 5,000 shares, a portion
of 1,000 shares can be sold. Fixed assets on the other hand are not easy to section up in this manner.
The risk and reward perspective

You need to be aware that there is an element of risk involved if you expect a return on your investment. In the investment
universe the closest we can get to ultimate safety for our investment funds is through the purchase of government-issued
bonds of countries with very stable economic environs. Investing in shares is riskier than purchasing government bonds,
but offer a greater chance of a higher return due to the increased risk.
The higher the potential return, the higher the risk to your funds. With shares, various factors including the performance of
the company, the performance of the stock market as a whole and the general economic climate, can affect the price of your
shares. So, there is certainly an element of risk involved, if the price of your shares has gone down, then the value of your
investment will be reduced. You can reduce your risks with careful planning. There are strategies to reduce and manage risk
through diversification, as we discussed earlier.

Wise Investors understand their needs and financial ability
Before even deciding on where to invest you need to decide what your goals are. Financial goals differ from one to the other.
For some, financial freedom means being able to retire earlier. For others, it would be to provide well for their family or be
able to enjoy certain luxuries. Do write your goals down.
Once your goals have been decided, it is a must to think about how much money you will need to realise them.
In order to earn this money from your investment, the asset or product you invest in, must have the ability to grow your
capital. This is where the risk - return tradeoff is considered. You should first think about your goals, the time horizon for
achieving them and the amount of money needed to attain these in the context of the level of risk you are prepared to take.
It is a precautionary measure to invest only the money that you dont immediately need and wont need in the foreseeable
future. Share investments in particular work best when they are held long-term. If you suddenly decide to sell your shares
because you need the money, you should be aware that you would be incurring unnecessary transaction fees and there
could be a possibility of losing money if at the point you decide to sell, the price of the shares has fallen to a level lower than
when you bought it.
As all investors want to optimise their after-tax returns it is also important that you should have at least a basic understanding
of the tax treatment of different types of investments.
Wise Investors know what products are available on the market

Once you have established your objectives you can then discuss a range of products and investments that will assist you in
constructing a suitable portfolio for your purposes.
Although you can consider making your own investment decisions by informing yourself well, it is always more prudent
to ask a qualified financial professional who is well versed in advising the public about investment options. Make sure you
understand what you are investing in.
On the CSE the following types of securities are available for investment:
Ordinary shares with voting rights
Ordinary shares without voting rights (Non-voting shares)
Warrants
Debentures
Closed End Funds
In addition to securities that are listed on the share market a range of securities that are not listed can also be purchased
from unit trust management companies, commercial banks, dealers of government debt instruments and other reputable
firms which offer financial and investment services.
We cannot stress enough that you should seek professional advice if you fail to fully understand the features of an instrument,
the investment-worthiness of the issuer or if any other doubt or confusion arises about the product or its issuer.
Wise Investors understand their level of risk tolerance

A wise investor chooses an investment product which not only matches his goals and the amount of money available but
also according to his tolerance for risk. All investments carry a certain degree of risk. Some investors are risk-takers and
others are risk-averse. An investment strategy that a wise investor pursues would fit his / her risk profile.
Which profile describes you best?

Financial professionals who manage investments on behalf of clients (portfolio managers / investment managers) profile
their clients according to the way they perceive the clients willingness to take risk with funds invested.
Some such broad risk profiles are given below for your understanding:
Conservative risk profile: Aims for capital protection - Takes very low risk
Your primary investment objective is to preserve your capital or the principal amount you invested. You want to earn
a predictable flow of income from your assets. This means you find it more reassuring to invest in products with fixed
maturities and predetermined returns. Capital growth or growing your wealth is of secondary importance. You are willing
to take only limited risks with your assets usually over a short term investment horizon.
Defensive or Moderate risk profile: Aims for gradual capital growth - Takes low risk
Your principal investment aim is to gain a relatively stable and regular income. You are willing to take a moderate level of
risk with the assets you invest in. You aim at generating a gradual increase in your wealth in the long term. The defensive
portfolio consists mainly of diversified fixed income securities, with a small portion in shares.
10
Balanced risk profile: Seeks a balance between risk and return

Your main aim is to achieve capital growth over the long term. You seek relatively stable returns, but do not mind taking
moderate risks. Nevertheless, you expect some income on your assets. The Balanced portfolio is made up with equal
proportions of bonds and shares.
Dynamic risk profile: Seeks long-term growth potential

You want to grow your wealth over the long term. You are willing to take more risks because you want higher returns.
You are aware that shares can fluctuate in the short term and consider a temporary fall in your investment as a buying
opportunity. Earning income from your assets is of limited importance. The Dynamic portfolio includes investments in a
variety of asset classes, with a high percentage of shares.
Growth or Aggressive risk profile: On a determined quest for growth

Your priority is to generate capital gains. You realize that over time, equity markets usually outperform other investments.
However, youre not comfortable having all your investments in equities. You are aware that the more riskier the asset that
the value of it may fluctuate substantially. You are not afraid of speculating or going into what can be considered as risky
economic sectors. You see a temporary market fall/setback as a buying opportunity. You are not concerned about how
much income your assets earn. The growth portfolio includes a majority of shares.
Wise Investors Do their Homework. They research and explore.

Any investment activity entails gathering knowledge. Especially with share investments you have to be prepared to do the
homework on the companies you are investing in. This means you have to keep abreast of whats happening in the country,
industry and elsewhere which may affect your investment. You would also have to acquire the basic skill of analyzing
companys annual reports, accounts and other statements in order to understand how the company that you invested in is
performing and how its price may move accordingly.
Consult your investment adviser/stockbroker to get latest market information about shares you intend to buy or sell.
Making decisions based on rumors, particularly if you yourself cannot explain the choice in a rational manner is certainly
not advisable.
Conscientious investors also set appropriate benchmarks to measure the performance of their portfolio. Your portfolio
is successful if it is achieving or surpassing your investment targets. Particularly if you are an investor who has a large
proportion of shares in the portfolio, you must note that the overall market can vary significantly over time periods and will
impact the performance of your portfolio. So it is usual to consider the overall market performance (in the case of the CSE
the reflector is currently the ASPI) as the benchmark. You can also compare the performance of your shares in comparison
to the sector they belong to.
Wise Investors Diversify

In determining the asset allocation (what percentage of your total portfolio will be allocated to which asset), diversification
is a necessity. As we indicated previously in this booklet, the best way to minimize risk is to diversify your investments
across various investment products. If shares are your sole investments, you can spread the risk by diversifying between
different companies and sectors.
11

Getting Comfortable about Share Investments
Once you have made the decision to invest in the share market, getting comfortable about the decision is supported by
learning a little more about the market. Although the manner in which you approach the share market depends on your
time horizon, with share investments taking a long term view can be more rewarding.
Taking a long term view on the market means that the priority is time spent in the market and not about timing or looking
for the best time to enter the market. For those investors who have a short term investment timeframe, timing is important
as they have to closely keep track of short term movements in prices so as to find advantageous trading opportunities.
Familiarise yourself with the manner in which the share market moves just by observing it. You can do this by visiting the
CSE website www.cse.lk. You will be able to see if the overall market as represented by the ASPI or the MPI, as well as how
individual shares perform under different market conditions. The website also offers online education that is designed for
investors who are starting out under the Getting Started banner.
Deciding what shares to buy

What shares to buy is a decision that needs to be made in line with your investment goals. Your portfolio should be made
up of shares that can attain the performance goals that you set for the the shares of your portfolio.
While you may adopt a long-term investing view, from time to time there may be share trading opportunities that can
crop up that offer the chance to grow your investment capital more quickly. Daily /active trading which is a short term
investment strategy needs you to carefully consider the risks attached and also the transaction costs.
The kind of stock you should invest in depends on many factors. Nevertheless, what matters most are your investment goals
and the performance goals that you have set for shares in your portfolio.
Depending on your risk profile you can consider matching the various categories of shares that exist in the market which
are discussed below.
Income shares
As the name suggests these shares provide steady income streams for investors. These shares historically have paid regular
dividend payments as compared to others. In buying these shares important considerations are, the tax applicable on the
dividend, as well as the cost of the shares in comparison to the net dividend paid.
Value shares
Investors tend to think of value shares as bargains as they appear inexpensive relative to the earning ability of the company
and other fundamental factors. Value shares tend to have low Price to Earning ratios and high Dividend Yields. Long term
investors prefer these shares which they often hold over long time periods, until the true value of the share begins to
emerge in the form of dividends or increasing share price.
Growth shares
Issued by companies that have strong growth potential relative to the general economy and their industries. These shares
may pay low dividends or none at all. Investors of growth shares give up income today (in the form of dividends) for
returns in the future, in the form of growing sales and profits (ie. a rising share price and hence capital gains).
12
Cyclical shares
These shares are issued by companies which are sensitive to business cycles and whose performance is closely tied to
general economic trends. Prices of cyclical shares can be volatile as they follow the market expectation of how the general
economy would perform.
Defensive shares
These are shares that remain stable even under strained economic cycles. Unlike cyclical shares these are not affected
by general economic trends. Companies producing staples such as food and beverages, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals and
insurance are often regarded as defensive shares.
Selecting Shares
With the help of an advisor you can start learning how to identify the above share types. If you want to go at it alone do start
reading up or looking at CSE publications and online education banners on the CSE website. Additionally you can also use
the following to obtain information:
Stockbroker websites and publications
Newspapers and business magazines
Business programmes on TV & Radio
Websites and publications of data vendors such as Reuters, Bloomberg, Telekurs etc.
As you know, companies listed on the CSE are categorised into 20 different sectors. After having identified which type of
share and industry category you would buy into, you can go on to individual share selection.
When considering buying shares in a particular company, you must first do your research on that company. Please talk to
your adviser and/or read comprehensively the research material that can give you a good understanding of the companys
activities and its business situation.
To be wary of !
Speculative Shares
When you are exploring the market and researching for share selection, do be wary of companies which lack financial
strength or track record in earnings and dividends but appear to be focused on delivering growth fast. If a companys
publicized future growth is not supported by its fundamentals, they are high risk investments.
Factors that affect a decision to sell shares

For many investors deciding to sell their shares can be far more difficult than deciding to buy. There are many personal and
market driven factors that can lead to a sell decision. Some factors to be considered are as given below:
The shares are no longer a good fit for your investment goals and risk tolerance
This might happen because your goals have changed over time. Alternatively your planned goal may have been achieved.
This would mean that you would systematically start selling the shares that were intended to grow to the financial goal
planned.
Sometimes an investor may find that the company invested in does not appeal as a good investment anymore. It may
have changed its business plans and may not look too stable anymore or there is a lot of volatility in its price movement.
This may mean that your investment is no longer within your risk tolerance levels.
13
You need to rebalance your portfolio

Rebalancing a portfolio entails bringing the percentage of each asset in an investment portfolio (asset allocation) back
into line if it has deviated away from ones target asset allocation.
Say at the start you decided that the best allocation for your circumstances is 60% shares, 30% bonds and 10% cash in
your portfolio. If you now have 80% of your portfolio in shares you may consider that shares represent an overly large
exposure in your portfolio. In this case you can consider your overall portfolio allocation and diversification within the
shares you posses. You can now consider selling off some of your stocks bringing the asset allocation percentages back
into alignment.
Tax implications
Consult an expert if the treatment of taxation of capital gains and dividend income of shares changes at any point
and/or you have reason to believe that the after tax returns from your shares may not meet the required target any longer.
Investors may want to sell shares if tax implications disadvantage them in any manner in view of after tax returns earned
relative to other investments.
Reinvestment opportunities
This is when you have identified a company that offers better returns than of the shares you currently hold. You can sell
less advantageous shares. It is important to consider how your new purchase will fit into the rest of your portfolio and
your strategies of investment.
Price movements
If a share price suddenly falls beyond a certain acceptable percentage, some investors consider this a sell point, in order
to eliminate the possibility of further losses. Keep in mind that you may need to have observed the price movements of
a share and have some idea of the shares volatility to see untoward falls in price. Also note that share prices can recover
after falling or vice versa, as you will observe once you have spent some time observing and trading on the market.
Overvalued shares
You may want to sell shares when they are pushed way past their true value. A share is considered overvalued if its current
price is not justified by its earnings outlook and is therefore, expected to drop in price. Overvaluation may result from an
emotional buying spurt, which inflates the stocks market price, or from deterioration in a companys financial strength.
The strategy is to sell when they are over-valued and buy them back after a market correction has dampened the price.
Seeking professional advice

In our discussions so far we have recommended to you that it is advisable to seek professional advice when making
investment decisions. Certain matters such as risk profiling, investment strategies, taxation and understanding
the market are areas that you should look to obtaining professional advice on.
Especially if you are an investor who is just starting out, there are advantages to obtaining professional advice,
although going it alone may also be a fulfilling experience. As you are ultimately responsible for your own
investments you must be comfortable with the investment decisions made. So, it is usual for many investors to
combine their own ideas which would be based on their own analysis and research, together with recommendations
from investment advisors/stockbrokers.
14

Why you need a Stockbroker
In order to provide you with a secure and well regulated trading environment only a licensed Stockbroker can execute
purchase and sale transactions on behalf of investors in return for a service fee (brokerage) on the CSE.
The CSE has 29 trading members or stockbrokers which have been licensed. Please refer pages 21 onwards for the complete
list.
Availability of Shares
Shares become available for purchase by investors as detailed below:
In the primary market from a new issue of shares/Initial Public Offering (IPO)
You can buy new shares that are issued by companies which are raising equity capital through a new issue of shares (an
Initial Public Offering, commonly referred to simply as an IPO). In an IPO, the company first submits details of its business
and the proposed share issue or what is called an initial listing application to the CSE. Subsequently a prospectus which
has been approved by the CSE is lodged with the Registrar of Companies in Sri Lanka by the issuing company. Once the
prospectus is lodged and registered it can then be provided to potential investors for their consideration.
Companies typically use a combination of broking firms, licensed commercial banks and the investment bank which
advises the company on the IPO, to promote the sale of new shares and distribute the prospectus to potential investors.
The CSE website also makes available details on upcoming IPOs and provides links to respective prospectus and
application forms.
To buy shares: If you wish to buy shares in an IPO, you should first review the prospectus carefully. It gives you many
details on the company and its operations, the industry trends, the manner in which the IPO is structured and salient
details of the shares, risks attached, financial statements of the company and other disclosures which are required by law.
You will need to open a CDS account through a stockbroker / custodian bank prior to applying for the IPO.
Once you are comfortable about investing, fill out the application form specifying all requisite details including the number
of shares you wish to buy and send it to the collection points specified in the Prospectus (usually stockbrokers, the companys
main office or branches and/or branches of specified banks), before the application deadline.
To sell shares: once new shares are issued and listed on the CSE, they may trade at a market price substantially different
from the issue price (either higher or lower). This is due to supply and demand for the shares of the company. You will need
to instruct your Stockbroker to sell your shares in the secondary market. See also the sections below titled To trade on the
secondary market and Buying and Selling shares-basic steps.
On the secondary market through a Stockbroker

Shares can be bought on the secondary market on any trading day by placing a purchase order with a Stockbroker.
A secondary market is one in which an investor could either buy or sell shares or other securities from or to another
investor, subsequent to the original issuance in the primary market.
As we discussed before, an advantage of investing in existing shares are their liquidity. On any trading day, prices at which
investors are willing to buy and sell shares (bids and offers) are available for the majority of the listed companies.
15
However you must note that different shares have different liquidity levels. Some companies may have very few buyers
and/or sellers on any given trading day. Liquidity is an important consideration as it affects the price you might have to
pay and the ease in which you can sell your investment.
To trade on the secondary market

You must first contact a stockbroker /custodian bank and open a CDS account through them.
Once a CDS account number has been obtained, to buy or sell shares traded on the CSE, your order must be placed with a
Stockbroker, typically over the telephone, fax, by visiting or online.
Internet trading
Internet trading facilities are available through select Stockbrokers. Online trading provides individual investors with
around the clock access to the trading system along with market data, company information and educational material.
It simplifies the trading process by empowering investors to secure the decision-making power and trade independently.
Buying and Selling shares - basic steps

Please familiarize yourself with the basic steps you need to follow to buy and sell shares:
Before placing the order to buy or sell shares, ensure that you are able to procure the
following information:
Your CDS account number
If you are buying shares, you should make available cleared funds on or before the 3rd market day after the purchase.
If you are selling shares, you need to be aware that sales proceeds are issued by the Stockbroker as account payee cheques.
However you may also request for a cheque without crossings.
Number of shares: specify the number or, if you are buying, the maximum rupee amount you are willing to allocate
towards the purchase.
Share price: at market order or limit order?
Market orders are buy or sell orders placed at the prevailing market price and are more likely to result in a trade. For limit
orders (where you set a maximum purchase price or a minimum sale price), write down the price for reference. The price
and market depth over the time period that the order is left in the market will affect the likelihood of a trade.
Duration of the order: is your order just for this trading day or, if no trade takes place, do you want your order to remain
in the order book when the market opens the next day or for a further number of days?
Brokerage rate and the total transaction cost for the order.
Buying
If you want to invest in shares of X Company, you need to:
1. Inform your Stockbroker of the name of the company, price and amount of shares you want to purchase.
2. The Stockbroker will try and match your order.
3. Once the order is processed, he will inform you of the shares you were able to purchase at the price you had requested.
Once the buying process is complete, you will:
4. Receive a Bought Note by post.
16
Selling
If you want to divest shares of X Company, you need to:
1. Inform your Stockbroker about your divestment - the name of the company, the price and the amount of shares to be
sold.
2. The Stockbroker will try to match your order.
3. If your order is not matched, he will inform you and negotiate a suitable price. Once the order is matched, it will be
processed.
If the Stockbroker sells your shares, you will:
4. Receive a Sold Note for your transaction.
What are Bought Notes and Sold Notes?

Bought Notes and Sold Notes are contract notes or confirmations sent to you by the Stockbroker, if your order results in
a trade. These notes confirm and are proof that your order was executed and act as evidence that transactions had taken
place with your approval.
These contract notes are dispatched by the Stockbroker to you, before commencement of the next trading session and
inform you of all the transactions that have taken place in your account on a said date. It is very important to check
the details on the respective Bought Note or Sold Note closely and to save all such paperwork as reference to crosscheck
your orders and actual purchases.
About the CDS statement

The CDS statement is a summary of all the transactions that have taken place in your CDS account and shows you the
remaining share balance.
With this document you can:

Check that your Stockbroker has carried out your instructions to buy/sell shares (as per your Bought/Sold notes); and
Find out if unauthorized purchases/sales have been made in your CDS account.
A monthly and/or quarterly statement is issued to all active account holders (account holders who have carried out at
least one transaction during a particular month/calendar quarter) at the end of the particular month/calendar quarter.
An annual statement is issued to inactive account holders (account holders who have not carried out transactions
during the year and have balances in their accounts) as at 31st March.
In the event of any discrepancies and unauthorized transactions in your CDS statement:
Immediately lodge a complaint in writing with the Compliance Officer of your Stockbroker firm.
If the firm fails to respond to your complaint or delay responding to it, you should inform the CSE immediately.
Note that your Bought/Sold Notes will be evidence as to your approved orders against errors/omissions of transactions
made to your CDS account.
17
Important
Ensure you have provided your correct, current postal address to the Stockbroker and the CDS and that you receive all
Bought/Sold Notes and the CDS statement. If you have not received the said documents within 5 working days, please
inform your Stockbroker and make a note of your complaint.
Ensure that you have received and read through your Bought/Sold Notes, and identified dis-similarities when compared
to the notes you manage at home with regard to your transactions on the stock market and/or the CDS account statement
you have received.
Please ensure your complaints are sent to the Compliance Officer of the Stockbroker firm sooner rather than later. You,
as an investor, are responsible for your CDS account transactions. If a transaction has occurred without your permission,
please inform the required authorities immediately.
What are the transaction costs?

Transaction costs that you will be paying on a trade are as follows as at the date of this publication.
Fees for transactions up to Rs. 50.0 Mn
Total Transaction Cost
1.1200%
Brokerage Fees
0.6400%
CSE Fees
0.0840%
CDS Fees
0.0240%
SEC Cess
0.0720%
Share Transaction Levy
0.3000%
Fees for transactions over Rs. 50.0 Mn

Total Transaction Cost (Minimum)
0.6125%
Brokerage Fees (Minimum)
0.2000%
CSE Fees
0.0525%
CDS Fees
0.0150%
SEC Cess
0.0450%
Share Transaction Levy
0.3000%
Pursuant to the implementation of ATS Version 7, wherein the Board Lot size has been changed to one (01) share, the Borad
of Directors of the CSE and the SEC have approved the removal of the Minimum Brokerage Fee of Rs. 10/- and the Minimum
CDS Fee of Rs. 5/- levied on transactions.
Accordingly, the 0.64% Brokerage Fee and the CDS Fee of 0.024% will be applicable for all transactions upto 50 Mn, with
effect from 10th April 2012.
The fee of Rs. 25/- charge from Custodian Banks in respect of Custodian trades has been done away with effect from 19th
March 2012.
18
Your Stockbroker
It is important that you find a Stockbroker that you are happy with in terms of the service that you are receiving. As you
are allowed to open multiple CDS accounts, changing Stockbrokers would entail completing a new form to open a CDS
account with a new Stockbroker.

Foreign Investment in Shares
Foreign investment in Sri Lanka is permissible for approved country funds, approved regional funds, corporate bodies
incorporated outside Sri Lanka and individual residents outside Sri Lanka (inclusive of Sri Lankans residing outside Sri
Lanka) subject to certain limitations and conditions imposed by the Laws of Sri Lanka.
Who is classed as a Foreign Investor?

If you fall into any of the categories listed below you would be considered a foreign investor:
Foreign citizens above 18 years of age (irrespective of whether they are resident in Sri Lanka or overseas).
Citizens of Sri Lanka who are residing outside Sri Lanka and above 18 years of age.
Corporate bodies incorporated or established outside Sri Lanka.
Regional and country funds approved by the SEC.
If you fall into any one of the above categories, please note that you must open a Securities Investment Account (SIA)
through a licensed Commercial Bank in Sri Lanka. The SIA is a rupee account through which eligible investors can invest
in Government securities (Treasury Bills and Treasury Bonds), equity capital of companies incorporated in Sri Lanka and
Units of Unit Trust companies in Sri Lanka.
Investors are permitted to invest and repatriate investments in any currency through an SIA, without violating any exchange
control regulations and will not be subject to any taxes.
Please contact a Stockbroker or Custodian as listed from page 21 onwards on this booklet to seek advice on opening your
SIA and CDS account. If you are already interacting with a licensed Commercial Bank in Sri Lanka, please contact your
relationship manager who would advise you on international banking services that complement your needs, in particular
with respect to services related to opening an SIA.
Important Notes: Change of residency of a CDS Account Holder / opening of accounts for
non-resident Sri Lankans
If an investor requests a change to his/her residential address in the CDS from Sri Lanka to another country, such
investors are required to open a new CDS account to carry out future transactions and all such purchases and sales of
shares should be operated through an SIA. This new CDS account would be classified by the CDS as a Foreign Individual
account (FI).
Securities held by an investor prior to becoming a non-resident should be lodged only into an existing CDS account
opened whilst being a resident of Sri Lanka. If such an investor requires to lodge any security/ies held by him/her prior
to becoming a non-resident in the new FI account, he/she should obtain prior written approval from the Controller of
Exchange and proof of such approval should be forwarded to CDS.
19
Transfer of securities from an existing CDS account to a new FI account opened as a non -resident will only be carried out
upon the investor obtaining Exchange Control Approval. As per the Exchange Control Act, repatriation of sales proceeds
of securities in the existing CDS account is subject to Exchange Control Approval.
It will not be possible to repatriate funds arising out of corporate actions such as Dividends and Capitalisation of
Reserves, applicable to securities held in the resident account unless Exchange Control Approval is obtained.
Any Rights provisionally allotted in respect of shares in a resident account can be purchased only through a SIA and
deposited to the CDS account opened as a non-resident.
Accordingly a CDS account holder wishing to change his/her residential address from Sri
Lanka to another country needs to provide the following information to the CDS in order to
accommodate the change of address:
1. Account opening form duly signed by the account holder.
2. Proof of current residential status.
3. SIA details with documentary proof.
4. Portfolio of shares up to the time of changing the residence.
5. Copy of the passport.
6. Declaration from the account holder on adherence to Exchange Control Regulations (Form 1 C).
Responsibility of Foreign Investors

When investing, you should be aware that you are affected by the laws of the country you reside in. It is your responsibility
to seek advice and comply with the laws of your country of residence.
20
ANNEX A : LIST OF STOCKBROKERS AND

CUSTODIAN BANKS
CSE MEMBERS DEBT & EQUITY
Bartleet Religare Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
Bartleet House
65, Braybrooke Place, Colombo 2.
Tel. 5220200 Fax. 2434985
E-mail. info@bartleetstock.com
Web. www.bartleetstock.com
Kandy Branch Tel. 081-5622779
Matara Branch Tel. 041-5410005-6
Negombo Branch Tel. 031-5677838
Jaffna Branch Tel. 021-2221800
Acuity Stockbrokers (Pvt) Ltd.
Acuity House,
53, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 3.
Tel. 2206206 Fax. 2206298-9
E-mail. sales@acuitystockbrokers.com
Web. www.acuity.lk
John Keells Stockbrokers (Pvt) Ltd.
130, Glennie Street, Colombo 2.
Tel. 4710721-4, 2338066-7, 2342066-7,
2446694-5, 2439047-8 Fax. 2342068
E-mail. jkstock@keells.com
Web. www.jksb.com, www.jksbonline.com
www.jksb.keels.lk
Asha Phillip Securities Ltd.
Level 4, Millennium House,
46/58, Navam Mawatha, Colombo 2.
Tel. 2429100 Fax. 2429199
E-mail. apsl@ashaphillip.net
Web. www.ashaphillip.net
Matara Branch Tel. 041-2223240
Kurunegala Branch Tel. 037-4691844
Assetline Securities (Pvt) Ltd.

282, Kaduwela Road, Battaramulla.
Tel. 4700111, 2307366 Fax. 4700112
E-mail. dpgs1@sltnet.lk
Web. www.dpgsonline.com
Matara Branch Tel. 041-4390766-7
Kandy Branch Tel. 081-4481638-9
Somerville Stockbrokers (Pvt) Ltd.
137, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 2.
Tel. 2329201-5, 2332827, 2338292-3
Fax. 2338291
E-mail. ssb-web@sltnet.lk
J B Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
150, St. Joseph Street, Colombo 14.
Tel. 2490900, 077-2490900, 077-2490901
Fax. 2430070, 2446085, 2447875
E-mail. jbs@jb.lk
Web. www.jbs.lk
Lanka Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
228/2, Galle Road, Colombo 4.
Tel. 4706757, 2554942 Fax. 4706767
E-mail. lankasec@sltnet.lk
Web. www.lsl.lk
Asia Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
Level 21, West Tower, World Trade Centre,
Echelon Square, Colombo 1.
Tel. 2423905, 5320000 Fax. 2336018
E-mail. enquiry@asiacapital.lk
Web. www.asiacapital.lk
21
Nation Lanka Equities (Pvt) Ltd.

44, Guild ford Cresent, Colombo 7.
Tel. 4714300, 4714388, 4714389,
0777-891871, 0777-896064 Fax. 2387228
E-mail. info@nlequities.com
Web. www.nlequities.com
Capital TRUST Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
42, Sir Mohamed Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 3.
Tel. 5335225 Fax. 5365725
E-mail. inquiries@capitaltrust.lk
Web. www.capitaltrust.lk
Negombo Branch Tel. 031-5675291-4
Jaffna Branch Tel. 021-5677001-2
S C Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
2nd Floor, 55, D.R. Wijewardena Mawatha, Colombo 10.
Tel. 4711000 Fax. 2394405
E-mail. cscres@sltnet.lk
Web. www.sampathsecurities.lk
CT Smith Stockbrokers (Pvt) Ltd.
4-14, Majestic City, 10, Station Road, Colombo 4.
Tel. 2552290 -4 Fax. 2552289
E-mail. ctssales@sltnet.lk
Web. www.ctsmith.lk
D N H Financial (Pvt) Ltd.
Level 16, West Tower, World Trade Centre,
Colombo 1.
Tel. 5700777 Fax. 5736264
E-mail. info@dnhfinancial.com
Web. www.dnhfinancial.com
22
N D B Stockbrokers (Pvt) Ltd.

5th Floor, NDB Building,
40, Navam Mawatha, Colombo 2.
Tel. 2314170-8 Fax. 2314180
E-mail. mail@ndbs.lk
Web. www.ndbs.lk
CSE TRADING MEMBERS DEBT & EQUITY
Capital Alliance Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
Level 5, Millennium House,
Tel. 2317777 Fax. 2317788
E-mail. general@capitalalliance.lk
Web. www.capitalalliance.lk
Negombo Branch Tel. 031-2227843-4
Kurunegala Branch Tel. 037-2222034-5
SMB Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
Tel. 5232091 Fax. 2339292
E-mail. admin@smbsecurities.lk
Web. www.smblk.com
First Guardian Equities (Pvt) Ltd.
32nd Floor, East Tower, World Trade Centre, Colombo 1.
Tel. 5884400 Fax. 5884401
E-mail. info@firstguardianequities.com
Web. www.firstguardianequities.com
Taprobane Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
2nd Floor, 10, Gothami Road, Colombo 8.
Tel. 5328200 Fax. 5328277
E-mail. info@taprobane.lk, dinal@taprobane.lk
Web. www.taprobanestocks.com
Heraymila Securities Ltd.
Level 8, South Wing, Millennium House,
Tel. 2359100 Fax. 2305522
E-mail. info-hasl@heraymila.com
IIFL Securities Ceylon (Pvt) Ltd.

27th Floor, East Tower, World Trade Centre, Colombo 1.
Tel. 2333000 Fax. 2333383
E-mail. info.ceylon@iiflcap.com
Web. www.iiflcap.com
LOLC Securities Ltd.

Level 18, West Tower, World Trade Center,
Echelon Square, Colombo 1.
Tel. 7880880 Fax. 2434771
TKS Securities (Pvt) Ltd.

19-01, East Tower, World Trade Centre, Colombo 1.
Tel. 7857799 Fax. 7857857
E-mail. ralph@tks.lk
Web. www.tks.lk
CSE MEMBERS DEBT

First Capital Markets Ltd.
75, Arnold Ratnayake Mawatha, Colombo 10.
Tel. 2639898, 2681888 Fax. 2639899, 2681460
E-mail. info@firstcapital.lk
Web. www.firstcapital.lk
SKM Lanka Holdings (Pvt) Ltd.

35/1 Alwis Place, Colombo 3.
Tel. 2344444 Fax. 2434198
E-mail. info@skmlankaholdings.com
Web. www.skmlankaholdings.com
Richard Pieris Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
69, Hyde Park Corner, Colombo 2.
Tel. 7448900 Fax. 2675064
E-mail. communication@rpsecurities.com
Claridge Stockbrokers (Pvt) Ltd.
10, Gnanartha Pradeepa Mawatha, Colombo 8.
Tel. 2697974 Fax. 2677576
E-mail. fonseka@mackwoods.com
New World Securities (Pvt) Ltd.
2nd Floor, 45/2, Braybrooke Street, Colombo 2.
Tel. 2358700-20 Fax. 2358701
E-mail. info@nws.lk
Web. www.nws.lk
Arrenga Capital (Pvt) Ltd.
Level 23, East Tower, World Trade Centre, Colombo 1.
Tel. 7277000-98 Fax. 7277099
E-mail. dihand@arrengacapital.com
Web. www.arrengacapital.com
COMMERCIAL BANKS OFFERING CUSTODIAN

SERVICES
Bank of Ceylon
11th Floor, 4, Bank of Ceylon Mawatha, Colombo 1.
Tel. 2448348
Web. www.boc.lk
Standard Chartered Bank
37, York Street, Colombo 1.
Tel. 2480450
Web. www.standardchartered.com
Banque Indosuez
C/o Hatton National Bank Ltd. Cinnamon Gardens Branch,
Tel. 2681720, 2686537
Sampath Bank Ltd.
110, Sir James Peiris Mawatha, Colombo 2.
Tel. 5331458, 4730662
Web. www.sampath.lk
Citibank N.A.
65 C, Dharmapala Mawatha, Colombo 7.
Tel. 2447316-8, 2449061
Web. www.citi.com
23
Union Bank of Colombo Ltd.

15 A, Alfred Place, Colombo 3.
Tel. 2370870
Web. www.unionb.com
Deutsche Bank
86, Galle Road, Colombo 3.
Tel. 2447062, 2438220, 2438057
Web. www.db.com/srilanka
Nations Trust Bank Ltd.
242, Union Place, Colombo 2.
Tel. 4313131
Web. www.nationstrust.com
Hatton National Bank Ltd.
10, R. A. De Mel Mawatha, Colombo 3.
Tel. 2664664
Web. www.hnb.net
Seylan Bank Ltd.
Level 8, Ceylinco Seylan Towers,
Tel. 4701812, 4701819
Web. www.eseylan.com
Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Ltd.
24, Sir Baron Jayathilake Mawatha, Colombo 1.
Tel. 2325435, 2446591, 2446303
E-mail. custody@hsbc.com.lk
Web. www.hsbc.lk
State Bank of India
16, Sir Baron Jayathilake Mawatha., P.O. Box 93, Colombo 1.
Tel. 2380953, 2326133-5
Web. www.statebankofindia.com
Peoples Bank
Financial & Management Accounting Department,
75, Sir Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 2.
Tel. 2481397, 2432437
Web. www.peoplesbank.lk
24
Commercial Bank of Ceylon Ltd.

Commercial House
21, Bristol Street, Colombo 1.
Tel. 5377881, 2440010-15
Web. www.combank.net
National Savings Bank
Savings House
Tel. 2573008-15
Web. www.nsb.lk
Pan Asia Bank
Tel. 2565565
Web. www.pabcbank.com
Public Bank Berhad
P. O. BOX 1995, 340, R.A De Mel Mawatha,
Colombo 3.
Tel. 2576289-92
Fax. 2573958
ANNEX B : STATISTICAL DATA

Selected highlights of the equity market segment of the Colombo Stock Exchange for the period 2010-2012(Q1) are
provided below:
Market Highlights
2012 (Q1)
2011
2010
81,709.9
546,255.8
570,326.8
Domestic (Rs. Mn)
61,434.7
486,959.4
464,733.6
Foreign (Rs. Mn)
20,275.2
59,296.4
105,593.2
Daily Average Turnover (Rs. Mn)
1,361.8
2,285.6
2,396.3
Shares Traded (No. Mn)
2,577.5
24,543.7
18,489.2
2,350.6
23,151.6
16,684.5
226.9
1,392.1
1,804.7
550,710
4,579,352
3,355,126
532,876
4,463,404
3,225,041
17,834
115,948
130,085
2,012.9
2,213.9
2,210.5
Market Capitalization as a % of GDP
33.8
39.5
Turnover Velocity (%)
24.7
34.5
1.3
19.2
4.3
31
10
Annual Turnover (Rs.Mn)
20,275.2
59,296.4
105,593.2
Purchases (Rs. Mn.)
30,436.2
49,776.8
92,425.5
Sales (Rs. Mn.)
10,114.1
68,816.0
118,760.9
Net Foreign Flow (Rs. Mn)
20,332.1
(19,039.2)
(26,335.3)
5,420.2
6,074.4
6,635.9
(10.8)**
(8.5)
96.0
Milanka Price Index
4,891.6
5,229.2
7,061.5
Y-O-Y Change (%)
(6.5)**
(25.9)
83.4
Market PER Year End (Times)
14.4***
15.8
25.2
Price to Book Value Year End(Times)
1.8***
2.0
3.0
Dividend Yield Year End (%)
1.9***
1.8
1.2
Equity Turnover (Rs. Mn)
Domestic (No. Mn)

Foreign (No. Mn)
Trades (No.)
Domestic (No.)
Foreign (No.)
Market Capitalization (Rs. Bn)
Initial Capital Raised (Rs.Bn)

New Listings (No.)
Foreign Trading Activity
Returns, Yields and Valuation Multiples

All Share Price Index
Y-O-Y Change (%)
* Calculated on an annual basis

** 01st January to 31st March 2012
*** Value as at 31st March 2012
25
Milanka Price Index Companies for the 1st Half, 2012

BANKS , FINANCE & INSURANCE
Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC
Central Finance Company PLC
DFCC Bank
Hatton National Bank PLC
Lanka Orix Leasing Company PLC
LB Finance PLC
Nations Trust Bank PLC
Sampath Bank PLC
Union Bank of Colombo PLC
HEALTH CARE
The Lanka Hospitals Corporation PLC
BEVERAGES , FOOD & TOBACCO

Distilleries Company of Sri Lanka PLC
DIVERSIFIED
Aitken Spence PLC
Free Lanka Capital Holdings PLC
John Keells Holdings PLC
Richard Pieris and Company PLC
The Colombo Fort Land and Building Company PLC
Vallibel One PLC
Softlogic Holdings PLC
INVESTMENT TRUSTS
Environmental Resources Investment PLC
MANUFACTURING
Ceylon Grain Elevators PLC
Piramal Glass Ceylon PLC
Royal Ceramics Lanka PLC
TRADING
Brown & Company PLC
POWER & ENERGY

Laugfs Gas PLC
26
LAND & PROPERTY

Colombo Land and Development Company PLC
Notes
27
Notes
28
If you need any further information to get started, please contact the
Market Development Division of the Colombo Stock Exchange:
Table of Contents
03
Primer
07
09
12
15
19
Annex A: List of Stockbrokers and Custodian Banks 21

Annex B: Statistical Data
25
Mail
Call
Fax
Email
Web
:
:
:

#04-01 West Block
World Trade Centre
Echelon Square
Colombo 01
Sri Lanka
+ 94 11 2356456
+ 94 11 2446581
+ 94 11 2445279
info@cse.lk
www.cse.lk
Disclaimer
This booklet has been prepared by the CSE in good faith, solely for educational
purposes. Thus, the information contained herein is general in nature and should
not be treated as legal advice, tax advice, investment advice or recommendations
to buy or sell shares. The reader should seek independent professional advice with
regard to legal, tax and investment matters.
Whilst reasonable efforts have been made to include accurate and up-to-date
information in the booklet, the CSE does not make any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy, adequacy, reliability and completeness of the
information.
Therefore, the CSE and its employees disclaim all liability for any loss suffered
(directly or indirectly) by any person acting in reliance upon the information
contained herein.
04-01 West Block, World Trade Centre

Echelon Square Colombo 1, Sri Lanka.
Tel: +94-11-2446581 (Hunting)
Email: info@cse.lk
www.cse.lk
INVESTING IN SHARES
A BASIC GUIDE

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04-01 West Block, World Trade Centre

Echelon Square Colombo 1, Sri Lanka.

About Wise Investors

Share Investment Matters

Buying and Selling Shares on the CSE

Are you categorized as a Foreign Investor?

Annex A: List of Stockbrokers and Custodian Banks 21

Colombo Stock Exchange

Todays world is one in which

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICERS MESSAGE

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

About the Colombo Stock Exchange

A brief history of the CSE

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

With the economy also strengthening after the

The rankings reflect the growth of the ASPI which

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

14th Feb 2011

01st Oct 2010

18th Aug 2011

14th Feb 2010

Highest Annual Turnover

Source: Colombo Stock Exchange

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

In considering the manner in which the CSE has transformed

Market Capitalization as a % of GDP

The CSE generated an equity turnover of Rs. 546.2 Bn

(Turnover as % of Average Market Capitalization)

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

The CSE has shown a decline in the level of market

What are shares?

What types of shares are there?

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Non-Voting Ordinary Shares

Why do Investors Buy Shares?

Shares for Capital Growth

Shares for Dividends

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Shares for Liquidity and Flexibility

The risk and reward perspective

About Wise Investors

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Wise Investors know what products are available on the market

Wise Investors understand their level of risk tolerance

Which profile describes you best?

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Balanced risk profile: Seeks a balance between risk and return

Dynamic risk profile: Seeks long-term growth potential

Growth or Aggressive risk profile: On a determined quest for growth

Wise Investors Do their Homework. They research and explore.

Wise Investors Diversify

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Share Investment Matters

Deciding what shares to buy

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Factors that affect a decision to sell shares

You need to rebalance your portfolio

Seeking professional advice

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

Buying and Selling Shares on the CSE

On the secondary market through a Stockbroker

Colombo Stock Exchange - Investing in Shares A Basic Guide

To trade on the secondary market

Buying and Selling shares - basic steps