Investment Banks in Sri Lanka

Acuity Partners (Pvt) Ltd and NDB Investment Bank Limited (NDBIB) stand out as two of Sri Lanka’s leading investment banks, each playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s financial services industry. Both institutions are known for their broad range of services, commitment to excellence, and contributions to the development of the local financial market. While they operate in a competitive environment, each has managed to carve a unique niche for itself by providing comprehensive, client-focused solutions that cater to the diverse needs of corporate clients, investors, and government entities alike.

Acuity Partners (Pvt) Ltd is an integrated investment banking firm that offers a comprehensive suite of services to its clients. Established as a joint venture between DFCC Bank and HNB PLC, the firm has the distinction of being the only fully integrated investment bank in Sri Lanka. Its creation brought together the strengths and expertise of two of Sri Lanka's most respected financial institutions, allowing Acuity Partners to offer a range of services that few firms in the region can match. The company’s unique position in the market is bolstered by its ability to provide services in corporate finance, equity trading, venture capital financing, and fixed income securities, among others.

One of the key features of Acuity Partners is its ability to provide end-to-end services across the investment banking spectrum. The firm’s corporate finance division is known for offering highly specialized advice on capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and financial structuring. This capability makes Acuity a trusted advisor for large corporations looking to expand or reorganize. In addition to traditional investment banking services, the firm also excels in providing advisory services for fixed income securities, where it offers assistance with the structuring and distribution of debt instruments. The company’s expertise in this area is further enhanced by its established relationship with key players in the Sri Lankan capital markets.

Acuity Partners also has a strong presence in the equity trading market, where it offers comprehensive services that cater to both institutional and individual investors. Its equity trading division facilitates the buying and selling of stocks, while its research and advisory teams provide critical insights and market intelligence to help clients make informed investment decisions. This robust offering is complemented by the firm’s venture capital financing services, which target high-growth potential businesses that are looking for funding and guidance in their early stages. Through its comprehensive service offerings, Acuity Partners has managed to establish itself as one of the top investment banks in Sri Lanka, drawing clients from various sectors including real estate, energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

The firm’s commitment to reliability, efficiency, and integrity has further strengthened its position as a trusted partner for both local and international clients. This commitment is reflected in its professional approach to managing investments, as well as its ability to deliver high-quality services and results for clients. As Sri Lanka’s financial markets continue to evolve, Acuity Partners is well-positioned to play a key role in facilitating economic growth and driving innovation in the local investment banking landscape.

On the other hand, NDB Investment Bank Limited (NDBIB) is another key player in Sri Lanka’s investment banking industry, offering a broad range of financial solutions that cater to a diverse set of clients. As a leading investment bank, NDBIB has built a reputation for excellence in debt and equity structuring, advisory services, and capital markets operations. The firm operates with a deep understanding of the local market, leveraging its resources and expertise to provide innovative financial solutions to its clients. Through its advisory services, NDBIB helps clients navigate complex financial transactions such as mergers and acquisitions, corporate restructuring, and initial public offerings (IPOs).

One of NDBIB’s most significant achievements is its recognition as the market leader in both debt and equity structuring and placement. The firm has consistently delivered successful outcomes for its clients in the areas of debt and equity capital markets, which include assisting businesses in raising capital through the issuance of bonds, shares, and other financial instruments. NDBIB’s ability to provide tailored solutions for raising capital has made it an invaluable partner for businesses looking to finance large-scale projects, expand operations, or enter new markets. By leveraging its expertise and local market knowledge, NDBIB is able to structure and place capital in ways that optimize the cost of capital for its clients while ensuring they have access to the necessary funds to grow and succeed.

The firm is also highly regarded for its expertise in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), where it provides strategic advisory services to companies looking to acquire or be acquired. NDBIB’s M&A advisory services are especially valuable in a growing economy like Sri Lanka’s, where businesses are increasingly seeking opportunities for consolidation, expansion, and diversification. In these transactions, NDBIB provides invaluable support, assisting clients with everything from target identification and valuation to negotiation and due diligence. This advisory expertise has made NDBIB a trusted advisor for businesses in Sri Lanka looking to execute complex transactions that require in-depth industry knowledge and careful planning.

NDBIB’s expertise in privatization and infrastructure development also sets it apart from other players in the Sri Lankan investment banking market. The firm has been actively involved in helping government entities and public-private partnerships raise capital and develop infrastructure projects across various sectors such as energy, transportation, and telecommunications. By playing a pivotal role in the development of critical infrastructure, NDBIB has contributed significantly to Sri Lanka’s economic growth and development, making it a vital player in the country’s financial ecosystem.

The firm’s ability to consolidate the local and foreign expertise of the NDB group has been key to its success. By combining the vast experience of NDBIB’s local professionals with the international reach and knowledge of its parent company, NDB Bank, the firm has been able to offer clients unique perspectives and insights. This combination of local expertise and global experience allows NDBIB to create customized solutions that meet the specific needs of Sri Lankan businesses while also aligning with international best practices.

In addition to its strong performance in the local market, NDBIB has also been able to establish itself as a respected player on the international stage. The firm’s ability to bring international best practices to Sri Lanka, coupled with its deep knowledge of the local market, has allowed it to attract foreign investors and institutions. NDBIB has successfully facilitated transactions involving international clients, demonstrating its ability to bridge the gap between local and global financial markets.

Both Acuity Partners and NDB Investment Bank have contributed significantly to the growth of Sri Lanka’s investment banking sector, helping businesses and investors navigate the complexities of the financial markets. Their success is a reflection of their ability to provide high-quality services, maintain strong client relationships, and adapt to an ever-changing financial environment. As the Sri Lankan economy continues to develop and attract foreign investment, the role of investment banks like Acuity Partners and NDBIB will be even more critical in ensuring that businesses have access to the capital and expertise they need to thrive.

Acuity Partners has distinguished itself through its broad array of services, while NDBIB has solidified its reputation through its leadership in debt and equity structuring, as well as its active involvement in mergers and acquisitions and infrastructure projects. Together, these two institutions are helping to shape Sri Lanka’s financial future by facilitating capital flows, fostering business growth, and ensuring that the country’s financial markets remain dynamic and competitive. As the Sri Lankan economy continues to integrate with global markets, Acuity Partners and NDB Investment Bank are well-positioned to support this growth, offering expertise, innovation, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing the country.