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Sri Lankan Film ‘The Newspaper’ Wins International Acclaim

The Sri Lankan indie film scene is making waves globally. ‘The Newspaper’, directed by Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura, has earned high praise worldwide. This South Asian masterpiece is winning awards at prestigious international film festivals.

Sri Lankan Film 'The Newspaper' Wins International Acclaim

‘The Newspaper’ has snagged eight awards since its 2020 debut. This success highlights the skill of its cast and crew. They’ve brought a compelling story to life on screen.

Kothalawala and Thirimadura shared the Best Actors Award at Russia’s Kazan International Film Awards. Their performances have wowed critics and audiences alike. This showcases the deep talent pool in Sri Lankan cinema.

Key Takeaways:

‘The Newspaper’ has won eight awards since its 2020 release, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actor at the Ceylon International Film Festival.
Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura won the joint Best Actors Award at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards in Russia.
The film received the second best film in Asia award at the Bangalore International Film Festival and the best director award at the 23rd Rainbow Film Award Festival in the UK.
Gayathri Khemadasa made history as the first female music director in Sri Lanka to win an international award for cinema music.
‘The Newspaper’ is the fourth Sri Lankan film to enter the Kazan Film Festival since its inception in 2005, highlighting the growing recognition of Sri Lankan cinema on the global stage.

Award-Winning Performances by Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura

Sri Lankan film ‘The Newspaper’ has gained international recognition. Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura’s performances as Guna and Luiyya have earned them accolades. They won the joint Best Actors Award at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards in Russia.

Best Actors Award at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards

The Kazan International Film Awards honored Sarath Kothalawala and Kumara Thirimadura’s talent. Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardena accepted the Best Actors Award for them at the closing ceremony. This win highlights the actors’ skills and Sri Lankan cinema’s global impact.

Portraying the Characters of Guna and Luiyya

Kothalawala and Thirimadura’s performances in ‘The Newspaper’ have received praise for their authenticity. Thirimadura, with over 100 stage plays, brought expertise to Guna’s role. Kothalawala’s nuanced portrayal of Luiyya showed his versatility as an actor.

Their on-screen chemistry and ability to convey complex emotions boosted the film’s success. The international recognition at the Kazan International Film Awards showcases the cast and crew’s skill. ‘The Newspaper’ has put Sri Lankan cinema in the global spotlight.

Powerful Storyline and Deep Symbolism

‘The Newspaper’ grips viewers with its story about media’s impact on society. A shocking headline accuses Guna’s brother of terrorism. This sets up a thrilling tale that keeps audiences hooked.

Guna, who is differently-abled, and Luiyya, a cattle herder, seek justice. They aim to clear Guna’s brother’s name. Their quest unfolds through various stories, each rich with symbolism.

Guna and Luiyya’s Search for Justice

Guna and Luiyya face many challenges in their quest for truth. They meet diverse characters along the way. These encounters reveal different aspects of Sri Lankan society.

Profound Meaning in Every Scene

‘The Newspaper’ rewards multiple viewings with its deep symbolism. Each scene carries important messages about truth and justice. The film’s powerful story has earned international praise and awards.

Sri Lankan Film ‘The Newspaper’ Wins International Acclaim

Sri Lankan cinema is making a global impact with “The Newspaper.” Released in 2020, the film has won eight awards worldwide. It showcases the talent of Sri Lanka’s film community and has earned critical acclaim.

Eight Awards Since its Release in 2020

“The Newspaper” has received recognition for its outstanding performances. Sarath Kotalawala and Kumara Thirimadura won Best Actor at Russia’s Kazan International Muslim Film Festival. The film also earned second-best Asian film at the Bangalore International Film Festival.

Additionally, it won best director at the UK’s Rainbow Film Award Festival. These accolades highlight the film’s international appeal and quality.

Recognition at Prestigious Film Festivals Worldwide

“The Newspaper” has screened at major film festivals globally. It was among 15 selected movies at the 18th Kazan International Film Awards. This festival featured films from Saudi Arabia, India, USA, Australia, and Mexico.

It’s the fourth Sri Lankan film to enter Kazan since 2005. This achievement shows the growing recognition of Sri Lankan cinema worldwide.

Nominated for Eight Awards at the Ceylon International Film Festival

“The Newspaper” received eight nominations at the Ceylon International Film Festival. It won five awards, including Best Feature Film, Best Director, and Best Music Director.

The film’s success reflects the actors’ hard work and dedication. It also highlights the support from various individuals, including Sri Lanka’s former President and citizens.

Sri Lanka Dominates Hong Kong at Asian Netball 2024

In a gripping game of skill and determination, Sri Lanka showed their power in the 2024 Asian Netball Championship Semi-Final. They achieved a Sri Lankan Sports Triumph against Hong Kong, winning 71-47. This victory highlights their strong position in Asian Netball, bringing them closer to championship success.

The battle took place at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bangalore. Sri Lanka took the lead early, ending the first quarter ahead at 18-9. By halftime, they solidified this lead to 36-21. Their skills on the court were clear, pushing them nearer to winning another major title.

Key Takeaways

Sri Lanka’s formidable performance against Hong Kong highlighted their championship caliber.
The team’s success is a shining example of the prowess of Netball in Asia.
Thishala Algama’s standout performance with a 95% shooting accuracy played a significant role in the victory.
Sri Lanka’s quest towards a championship hat-trick was evident in their strategic gameplay.
Their dominant semi-final win serves as a stepping stone for Sri Lanka in the International Netball Showdown.
This victory marked a high point for Sri Lankan Sports Triumph on an international stage.

Sri Lanka’s Netball Team Dominates Hong Kong in 2024 Asian Championship

The Sri Lankan national netball team scored a big win against Hong Kong in the semi-finals of the 2024 Asian Netball Championship. This victory shows the skilled netball players of Sri Lanka and their dedication to women’s sports excellence.

Gayanjali Amarawansa and Thishala Algama’s Impressive Performance

Gayanjali Amarawansa and Thishala Algama led the team to success. Algama’s amazing shooting skills helped the team win the regional championship. Amarawansa played brilliantly, making plays that increased their lead.

Defensive Strategies: Gayani Dissanayake & Rashmi Perera’s Role

Gayani Dissanayake and Rashmi Perera played key roles in defense. They stopped Hong Kong from scoring many times. Their great defense work gave Sri Lanka’s attackers the chance to be bold in their game.

Strong Start and Sustained Lead by Sri Lanka Throughout the Game

Sri Lanka took the lead early in the game. By half-time, they had a big advantage thanks to their strong plays. Sri Lanka kept their lead despite Hong Kong’s comeback tries, ensuring their place in the final.

Sri Lanka’s success in the 2024 Asian Netball Championship highlights their strong training and development programs. This win is more than just a sports victory; it’s a big moment in Sri Lanka’s sports history. It adds to the legacy of women’s sports excellence in the area.

Building Up to the Semi-Final: Sri Lanka’s Journey in the Championship

Sri Lanka’s journey to the semi-finals has been filled with remarkable wins. They’ve shown great skill and determination from the start. Their journey is a quest for sporting honor.

Group Stage Triumphs and Dominant Quarter Performance

Sri Lanka started strong with big wins against the Maldives and the Philippines. They set an early tone of confidence with these games. Their game against Chinese Taipei was a standout, ending with a massive win.

Tactical Mastery: Formations and Player Rotations

The team’s smart use of player rotations and formations has been key. This strategy wasn’t just about talent. It involved deep thinking and planning, which helped them reach the semi-final.

Sri Lanka’s Winning Streak Propelled by Skilled Netball Players

The heart of Sri Lanka’s success lies in its talented players. Their performance has been top-notch, leading to a strong winning streak. This journey is a testament to their determination and skill, as they prepare for more challenging games ahead.

Sri Lanka’s progress carries the dreams of victory and national pride. The competition draws the attention of the entire country, hoping for more success. The team represents not just sports achievement but also Sri Lanka’s rich culture.

Impacts of Skilled Play: Breaking Down Game Statistics

The performance of Sri Lanka’s Netball Team at the 2024 Asian Championship was amazing. They showed great skill and strategy in their games. This led to their win against Hong Kong Netball.

Analyzing Shooting Accuracy: Thishala Algama’s Standout Stats

Thishala Algama’s shooting was key for Sri Lanka’s Netball Team. She scored 54 goals from 57 tries. Her 94.7% shooting rate highlights her skill and the team’s hard work.

Quarter by Quarter: How Sri Lanka Cemented Their Victory

Sri Lanka got stronger every quarter. They used smart moves and teamwork to beat Hong Kong. The second quarter was when they really took the lead, showing their strength in the game.

Team Comparisons: Evaluating Sri Lanka and Hong Kong

Sri Lanka and Hong Kong both had a 90% shooting accuracy in the 2024 Asian Championship. But Sri Lanka made more successful shots. Thishala Algama played a big part in their 24-goal win. This shows Sri Lanka’s strong strategy and skill.

Sri Lanka shines in Women’s Sports Excellence and on global stages like the Venice Biennale. Their success in sports and arts shows their dedication to excellence.

Looking Towards the Final: Sri Lanka’s Preparation for Glory

Sri Lanka’s netball team is gearing up for the Asian Netball 2024 championship final. They aim to secure a victory that would go down in history. Their journey to the final showcases their skill, tactics, and sheer determination. Despite the Netball Federation of Sri Lanka’s dissolution, their progress shows their strong spirit and ambition.

The team’s win over Singapore with a score of 72-70 at the Sri Lanka Invitational International Netball Tournament was thrilling. Tharjini Sivalingam’s shooting accuracy, hitting 96% of her shots in the final, demonstrates the team’s high skill level. However, there are worries about their strategy focusing too much on height. Yet, it’s this tactical play that has brought them success and will be vital for facing future challenges.

The team draws inspiration from Sri Lanka’s rich traditions and resilient spirit. They are especially inspired by the Kandy Esala Perahera festival, a symbol of the country’s ability to overcome and flourish. As they prepare for the final against Hong Kong, every move and strategy reflects their dedication to excellence and unity. This steadfast commitment is what might lead them to achieve a significant win on the international stage.

Sri Lanka’s Economic Crisis Fuels Poverty & Malnutrition

The economic crisis in Sri Lanka has led to severe problems. It has caused more people to fall into poverty and struggle with not having enough food. Now, 25.6% of its people are facing hard times, which means over 2.5 million are living below the poverty line.

The country’s economy has gone down by -7.2% in 2022. This shows how big the financial problems are. With a new global poverty line set at $2.15 per day, more than 700 million people worldwide are very poor. Sri Lanka is part of this group, and its economic problems are making things worse. This situation also means more kids are not getting the nutrients they need, which is a big concern.

In these tough times, OMP Sri Lanka is working hard to keep everyone informed. They share the latest news and important updates. They aim to help everyone understand what’s going on and stay safe. OMP Sri Lanka is committed to helping the nation find a way to get better and find hope again.

Understanding the Link Between Economic Crisis and Poverty in Sri Lanka

The economic downturn in Sri Lanka has led to a major poverty surge and more socioeconomic instability. The education sector shows the crisis clearly. There, schools had to cancel exams because there’s no paper. This affected over 4.3 million students.

The numbers show how serious it is. In August 2024, the poverty line hit Rs. 16,152, up from Rs. 6,966 in 2019. The cost of living has skyrocketed. Now, about 74 percent of families can’t afford daily needs. This was the case in the second half of 2022. It shows the deep financial turmoil in the country.

In 2023, 25.9 percent of people were below the poverty line. This didn’t just happen. It’s due to bad economic policies and worldwide economic pressures. Moreover, food insecurity grew. By August and September 2023, 24 percent of families didn’t have secure food access. Over 10,000 young kids are dealing with severe malnutrition.

This financial instability won’t only affect us now. It will also harm Sri Lanka’s future. If we don’t act, the hardship and poverty will get worse. We need to find solutions fast to fix our economic and social issues.

Economic Crisis Leads to Increased Poverty and Malnutrition in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is experiencing its worst economic downturn since becoming independent. This crisis shows a clear link between economic struggles and societal problems. It has led to more extreme poverty, increased malnutrition, and food insecurity. These issues are urgent and need quick action.

Spike in Extreme Poverty Amidst Economic Downturn

The economic downturn in Sri Lanka has greatly increased poverty. The poverty rate jumped to 25.9% by 2023. This is a big increase from before. In cities, the poverty rate has tripled, hitting millions hard.

About four million Sri Lankans now live below the poverty line. This change is due to job losses and less income, especially in industries and services.

Rising Food Insecurity and Malnutrition Epidemic

With the financial crisis, more people can’t secure enough food. Over 60% of families in Sri Lanka have to cut back on food quality and quantity. Now, 6.3 million people are facing food insecurity.

Nearly one-third of kids under five are malnourished. 26.8% of school kids have become more wasted in just a year. Food inflation is nearly 94 percent, making malnutrition worse.

Socioeconomic Instability Worsens Humanitarian Crisis

The economic mess in Sri Lanka is making the humanitarian crisis worse. It’s deepening poverty and making it harder to get food and other basics. In response, the government is trying to help.

They’re changing cash transfer programs and updating social systems. These steps aim to help people now and make the country more resilient. They focus on including everyone, especially promoting gender equality and empowering women.

Indicator	2019	2022	2023
Poverty Rate (%)	13	25	25.9
Children Under 5 Malnourished (%)	–	7.4	9.2
Households Unable to Afford Food (%)	–	74	–
Food Inflation Rate (%)	–	94	–
Urban Poverty (%)	5	15	–
Job Losses (in millions)	–	0.5	–

Assessing the Human Impact of Sri Lanka’s Recession

The ripple effect of Sri Lanka’s recession goes beyond numbers. It touches the lives of its people every day. The lack of essentials and rising prices have hit hard. The World Bank reports a jump in poverty to 25% in 2022.

This number includes urban areas where poverty tripled to 15%. Thus, showing a big increase in economic hardship. With soaring poverty lines and food inflation over 90%, many can’t afford basic needs.

Shortage of Essentials and Accelerating Inflation Rates

The crisis has led to serious poverty and malnutrition. UNICEF’s 2023 report says about 2.8 million children and women need urgent food help. With living costs so high, many eat less protein, harming health and growth. The fuel crisis makes it worse, causing job losses and deep societal impacts.

Societal Consequences of an Economic Collapse

People are trying to cope with the tough times. Groups like People in Need and Habitat for Humanity help with cash. This helps families a bit in Sri Lanka’s central areas. But, the path to economic recovery is still long. Changing to organic fertilisers and seeing farm outputs drop has made things harder, showing the need for major changes.

Policy Decisions and Their Role in the Financial Turmoil

Bad policy decisions have added to Sri Lanka’s troubles. Experts and global finance groups say changes and new policies are needed for a recovery. The UN OCHA highlights the immediate crisis needs and the importance of stable, long-term plans. The government’s work with the IMF Extended Fund Facility is a start. Yet, to truly fix the economy, deeper changes are essential.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake Wins Sri Lankan Presidency 2024

In a decisive moment, Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected President of Sri Lanka after the 2024 elections. This win signifies a big change in politics and starts a new era in the country’s rule. Being the leader of the National People’s Power and Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), Dissanayake’s win highlights the power of people’s voices in shaping leadership.

When votes were first counted, Dissanayake gained 42.31% of them. Adding second preference votes confirmed his win. This move was new for Sri Lanka and cemented the Anura Kumara Dissanayake Victory. It shows a big Political Shift 2024 and draws global attention for its impact on democracy and regional politics.

Dissanayake plans to fight corruption and push for growth. He faces the big tasks of reducing poverty and boosting the economy. His coalition’s big election promises reflect their commitment to trust and integrity. This focus is key in today’s Political News in Sri Lanka.

Key Takeaways

Anura Kumara Dissanayake emerges victorious in the monumental 2024 Government Elections of Sri Lanka.
The requirement to count second preference votes underscored the legitimacy and broad-based support for Dissanayake’s administration.
The victory of Anura Kumara Dissanayake represents a major deviation from traditional political structures.
An emphasis on anti-corruption measures and economic reforms was pivotal to garnering public consensus.
Sri Lanka anticipates a period of political stability and policy consistency as Dissanayake sets forth his administrative agenda.
The forthcoming general elections will be crucial in solidifying the administrative bearing and fulfilling the electorate’s expectations.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s Historical Victory: Sri Lanka Embarks on a New Political Era

In 2024, Anura Kumara Dissanayake celebrated a major victory in Sri Lanka. He became the President with the support of the National People’s Power coalition. His rise to power shows a big shift in the country’s politics. It echoes the people’s desire for real change.

The Emergence of National People’s Power Coalition

The National People’s Power coalition has brought fresh energy to Sri Lanka’s political scene. It grows from the efforts of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and unites several left-leaning groups. They aim to tackle important socio-economic challenges. This coalition came together to bring about needed reforms and better governance, especially during tough economic times. You can learn more about Sri Lanka’s situation here.

From Minority Representation to Executive Presidency

Once, Dissanayake headed a small party with just three parliamentary seats. Now, he’s President, a drastic transition. He got 42% of the first-choice votes, showing broad public backing with over 5.7 million votes. This victory broke the hold of two major parties on Sri Lankan politics. It opens the door for meaningful reforms aimed at making the government more transparent and accountable.

Unprecedented Use of Second Preference Votes

The 2024 presidential race saw a key role for second choice votes in Dissanayake’s win. After securing 42.31% initially, these additional votes helped him win a slim majority. This strategy shows how his call for change won wide approval from voters.

Election Details	Initial Votes (%)	Result after Second Preference Votes
Anura Kumara Dissanayake 2024	42.31	Majority Win

Dissanayake’s win ushers in a new era in Sri Lankan politics with the National People’s Power coalition at the helm. It signifies a deep political awakening and the people’s strong wish for change.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake Elected President in 2024, Marking Political Shift

In 2024, Anura Kumara Dissanayake won the Sri Lankan Presidency. His win means a big change in politics. He wants to fix old political ways. His victory starts a new chapter for Sri Lanka. It promises better governance and a fight against corruption.

Breaking Free from Traditional Party Dominance

Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s win signals a new phase in Sri Lankan politics. He got 44% of the vote, beating Sajith Premadasa who got 34%. This shows people want change. They are tired of the usual two-party system.

Promise of Good Governance and Anti-Corruption Initiatives

Dissanayake’s government aims to boost Good Governance. People are worried about corruption. His plans to fight corruption won many votes. This aims for a transparent and responsible presidency.

International Reactions and Future Collaborations

The world is optimistic about Dissanayake’s presidency. Neighboring leaders, including India’s Prime Minister, are ready to work with Sri Lanka. This could mean better regional teamwork. They are also open to looking at important deals again. This includes a US$2.9-billion deal with the IMF. This shows Sri Lanka is eager to improve its global standing.

Year	Voter Turnout	Percentage Vote for Dissanayake	Runner-up Vote Percentage
2024	76%	44%	34%
2019	83%	N/A	N/A

This election is a key moment for Sri Lanka. It’s not just a political change. It also aims to improve governance and global relations. All under Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s leadership.

Implications for Sri Lanka: Challenges and Expectations for President Dissanayake

Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s presidency in 2024 signals a new chapter for Sri Lanka. His election puts the spotlight on how he plans to tackle major issues. Economic Recovery, Poverty Relief, and dealings with the International Monetary Fund are top priorities. People expect him to improve the economy and make life better for everyone.

As leader of the National People’s Power coalition, President Dissanayake faces several tasks. He needs to develop policies that help the economy right away. Boosting business, attracting foreign investment, and restoring public trust are essential. His work with the International Monetary Fund is a chance to make financial terms fairer for the needy.

President Dissanayake also has to ensure political stability. With elections coming on November 14, it’s vital to have strong legislative support. Achieving economic goals and keeping good governance are crucial. Everyone wants a government that can bring progress and fairness.

Sri Lanka Stocks Rally as ASPI Surges 15% in 2024

The Sri Lankan stock market bounced back strongly in early 2024. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) jumped by 15%. This surge shows growing investor trust in the country’s economic stability.

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) saw busy trading days. Daily turnover ranged from Rs. 3.3 billion to Rs. 5.3 billion. Nine straight positive sessions highlighted the market’s strong performance.

Stock Market Recovers, ASPI Gains 15% in First Half of 2024

The blue-chip S&P SL20 index also grew, rising 2.41% to 2,794.15 points. Better-than-expected company earnings fueled this growth. The nation’s economy looks promising, with GDP growth predicted to hit 2-3% by year-end.

Offboard deals on specific stocks made up 15% of total turnover. These deals involved companies like Watawala Plantations and Commercial Bank of Ceylon. This shows strong investor interest in these firms.

The bull market proves Sri Lanka’s economic resilience. It’s attracting both local and foreign investors. As the rally continues, it’s expected to boost overall economic growth.

Stock Market Recovers, ASPI Gains 15% in First Half of 2024

The Sri Lankan stock market has shown impressive growth in 2024’s first half. The All-Share Price Index (ASPI) jumped 15%, while the S&P 20 rose 19%. Lower inflation rates and interest rates have boosted investor confidence.

Inflation Eases and Interest Rates Decline, Boosting Investor Confidence

Falling inflation and interest rates have fueled the stock market’s recovery. Investors now feel more optimistic about listed companies’ future. Quarterly interest costs for core companies have dropped significantly since 2020.

Sri Lanka stock market performance

Foreign Inflows Contribute to Market Rally

Foreign portfolio investment has driven the market rally. As the economy improves, foreign investors have become net buyers. Completing external debt restructuring is vital for market sentiment.

Sticking to the IMF reform program is crucial for sustained growth. Any deviation may create uncertainty and discourage foreign investor participation.

Key Sectors Like Capital Goods and Diversified Financials Lead the Surge

Capital Goods and Diversified Financials sectors are leading the market recovery. These companies have reported strong earnings growth and improved profitability. The banking sector is expected to see a re-rating.

Core earnings will be driven by loan growth amid positive GDP expectations. Non-Banking Financial Institutions should benefit from the current declining interest rate cycle.

Sector	Allocation
Banks/NBFI	30%
Conglomerates	25%
Manufacturing	20%
Consumer	15%
Leisure	10%

Increased trading volume and investor participation have supported market growth. Small to mid-cap companies may outperform large caps due to falling fixed-income yields. CSE earnings are expected to grow by 15.0% in 2024.

The ASPI target is set at 13,800 levels by year-end. The Sri Lankan stock market is ready for further growth and recovery.

Factors Driving the Bull Market

Sri Lanka’s stock market bull run stems from improved economic outlook and investor sentiment. Successful debt restructuring talks led to an IMF agreement for a $2.90 billion Extended Fund Facility. This boosted investor confidence, showing the government’s commitment to economic reforms.

Government reforms and the IMF program have stabilized the macroeconomic environment. Inflation dropped to about 35% in April 2023 from over 70%. Market-based pricing for fuel and cooking gas has aided the economic turnaround.

Sri Lanka has made progress in overcoming its economic crisis. The tourism sector’s rebound has been a key factor in 2023’s economic growth.

Lower Inflation and Interest Rates Spark Multiple Expansion for Equities

Falling inflation and interest rates have fueled the Sri Lankan stock market bull run. Inflation is expected to hit single digits by Q3 2023. This has made investors more optimistic about the country’s economic future.

Lower interest rates have led to higher stock prices. Investors are willing to pay more due to improved earnings visibility. The Sri Lankan Rupee gained about 10% in February 2023 alone.

Successful Debt Restructuring Negotiations Improve Economic Outlook

Debt restructuring talks have been a game-changer for Sri Lanka’s economy. Foreign debt was 55% of total debt in early 2022. The IMF agreement and fiscal plans have greatly improved the economic outlook.

This has boosted various sectors, like Financial Services and Leisure. Maldivian Resorts and Colombo Hotels have performed well. The Group’s Bunkering business has seen higher profits from fuel prices and volumes.

Government Reforms and IMF Extended Fund Facility Program Support Recovery

Government reforms and the IMF program provide a strong base for Sri Lanka’s recovery. These measures address macroeconomic imbalances and set the stage for future growth. The Group reported 17% EBITDA growth to Rs.45.74 billion despite challenges.

The Supermarket business showed resilience with 45% EBITDA growth to Rs.7.46 billion. Ongoing reforms and fiscal discipline are expected to brighten economic prospects. This provides a solid foundation for the continuing bull market in Sri Lankan stocks.