2021-04-09 | Directions No. 5 of 2021

Investments in Sri Lanka International Sovereign Bonds by Licensed Commercial Banks and National Savings Bank

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has directed licensed commercial banks and the National Savings Bank to suspend purchases of Sri Lanka International Sovereign Bonds until 23 April 2021. This directive aims to alleviate exchange rate pressure and mitigate potential foreign currency outflows that could impact banks' risk management frameworks. Issued under Sections 46(1) and 76(J)(1) of the Banking Act No. 30 of 1988, the order mandates immediate compliance to stabilize domestic liquidity and foreign exchange reserves.

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MONETARY BOARD CENTRAL BANK OF SRI LANKA

09 April 2021 | BANKING ACT DIRECTIONS | No. 05 of 2021

INVESTMENTS IN SRI LANKA INTERNATIONAL SOVEREIGN BONDS BY LICENSED COMMERCIAL BANKS AND NATIONAL SAVINGS BANK

Issued in terms of the powers conferred by Sections 46(1) and 76(J)(1) of the Banking Act No. 30 of 1988, as amended.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka with a view to easing pressure on the exchange rate and considering the substantial amount of possible/potential outflow of foreign exchange by banks and its impact on banks’ risk management, requires the licensed commercial banks and National Savings Bank to suspend the purchase of Sri Lanka International Sovereign Bonds until 23 April 2021.

(Signature)

Prof. W D Lakshman Chairman of the Monetary Board and Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka