Reaffirming the strength and stability of HNB Assurance PLC Group, Fitch Ratings upgraded the ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’ (IFS) of both HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) from ‘A(lka)’ to ‘A+(lka)’ citing stable outlooks.
The Rating Actions Commentary issued by Fitch on the 3rd of June 2021 states “The upgrade reflects the insurers' improved capital position, as measured by strong regulatory risk-based capital (RBC) ratios. The ratings also take into account the insurers' 'Favourable' business profiles and a sustained improvement in their non-life underwriting performance, while maintaining satisfactory earnings in its life insurance operation”.
Sharing her views, Chairperson of HNB Assurance PLC Group, Mrs. Rose Cooray stated, “This indeed is another significant achievement for HNB Assurance as well as HNB General Insurance and demonstrates very clearly to the market the singular focus of both companies on maintaining and building their strength and stability. HNBA’s Life Fund has exceeded LKR 17.8 BN, HNBGI’s Contract Liabilities stood at LKR 3.5 BN while the Total Assets of the Group surpassed LKR 32.9 BN by the end of the first quarter of 2021.” Mrs. Cooray further went on to state, “For our Group, it’s not business at any cost, rather, our drive is towards consolidated growth being driven through the focus on key business fundamentals and a prudent outlook to risk underwriting.” She further noted, “this rating upgrade augurs well for the soundness of strategies that have been crafted for both companies as well as for the capability and business acumen of the Management Teams. This will no doubt fortify our position in the market as a solid player and further infuse confidence in the mindset of key stakeholders to transact with both the Companies. I wish to thank each and every member of both teams for their dedication and commitment especially during these trying times that has enabled us to receive this upgrade in ratings by Fitch”.
Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI, Mr. Prasantha Fernando shared his thoughts stating, “We are delighted to announce the news of this upgrade to all our stakeholders. The ratings of HNBA and HNBGI have been upgraded by Fitch Ratings upon reviewing the business profiles, the improved capital position, and the sustainable underwriting performance of both entities. Further, an upgrade of this nature demonstrates our consolidated financial strength, low business risk and solid operational performance. Whist thanking Fitch Ratings for this recognition and all our stakeholders for being with us throughout our journey, it is with great reassurance I state that the management of both entities remain confident of driving our performance up further and are well positioned for growth.” Mr. Fernando added “I am happy to note that the Group recorded a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of LKR 3.2 BN for the first quarter of 2021. The Life Insurance business posted a remarkable 51% growth in GWP achieving LKR 1.6 BN and the General Insurance business recorded a GWP of LKR 1.6 BN marking a 27% growth. It is noteworthy to mention that the market rank of HNBGI has improved by one notch to the 7th position during the quarter with the growth in GWP.” Mr. Fernando further stated “the contribution of our Parent Company HNB too has helped us in this achievement and I am truly grateful to the Bank’s Corporate Management and the members of its branch network for all the support that they have given us.” Speaking on the contribution of the team, Mr. Fernando stated “each and every member of the HNBA and HNBGI teams have played a part in contributing towards this achievement, I am truly grateful and thankful to every single one of them for rallying around the Group and giving their best at all times. This upgrade has us all energized, excited and invigorated, and will, I am sure, further bolster the drive and passion of every team member to do better during these difficult times”.
HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) is one of the fastest growing Insurance Companies in Sri Lanka with a network of 63 branches. HNBA is a Life Insurance company with a rating of 'A+ (lka)' by Fitch Ratings Lanka for ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’. Following the introduction of the segregation rules by the Insurance Regulator, HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) was created and commenced its operations in January 2015; HNBGI continues to specialize in motor, non-motor and Takaful insurance solutions and is a fully owned subsidiary of HNB Assurance PLC. HNB General Insurance has been assigned a ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’ of ‘’A+’’ (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited. HNBA is rated within the Top 100 brands and Top 100 companies in Sri Lanka by LMD and HNB Assurance has won international awards for Brand Excellence, Digital Marketing and HR Excellence including the Great Place To Work® Certification, and won many awards for its Annual Reports at award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka.
Apr
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) has once again secured the prestigious title of "Best Life Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka" for the fourth consecutive year, recognized by the Global Banking and Finance Review. This award underscores HNBA's strong partnerships and commitment to excellence while maintaining its dominant position within the industry.</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Lasitha Wimalaratne, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA, stating, “It is indeed an immense honor to be acknowledged as the Best Life Bancassurance provider in the country by the esteemed Global Banking and Finance Review - UK, marking our fourth consecutive win. This achievement truly is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of our teams, who continuously push boundaries, foster partnerships and redefine industry benchmarks."</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">He further emphasized the significance of HNBA's Partnership Channel in their business operations, “As we strive towards our goal to attain 10% market share the partnership channel has a crucial role to play. I’m extremely proud of our team for this achievement and I’m certain we will continue to push boundaries and reach even greater heights.”</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">"We're thrilled by HNBA's achievement of being the Best Life Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka for the fourth consecutive year and are committed to ensuring that our partnership grows even further. By leveraging our strengths as a Group, we are consistently exploring ways to keep delivering top-notch solutions to our customers. My congratulations to HNBA and all the teams involved in this impressive achievement", opined, Mr. Supun Dias, Assistant General Manager - Network Management at Hatton National Bank.</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Sanesh Fernando, Chief Business Officer – Partnerships at HNBA, reflected on the significance of this achievement, stating, “Without a doubt, this achievement stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the entire Partnership Team, for which I extend my deepest gratitude. A special mention goes out to the management of Hatton National Bank and all our other banking partners for their continued support.</span><span style="line-height:150%;mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="line-height:150%;">To receive this prestigious recognition for the fourth-year running is a clear indication of our relentless commitment to excellence and the efforts made by our team. I’m confident that moving forward, we as a team are committed to delivering exceptional value to our customers collectively contributing to the larger vision of HNBA.”</span></span><o:p></o:p></p>
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Apr
<p>At the prestigious Great Manager Awards 2024, Mrs. Rose Cooray, the Chairperson of HNB Assurance PLC and HNB General Insurance Limited, was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Mrs. Cooray, who assumed her role in 2015, has been instrumental in steering both companies to remarkable growth and success. Since taking on the mantle of Chairperson, Mrs. Cooray has spearheaded initiatives that have led to substantial financial achievements, embracing cutting-edge technological advancements, securing international acclaim and forming numerous synergies and partnerships that have laid a solid foundation for the future of both organizations. With over 47 years of extensive experience in the financial sector, including a distinguished career at the Central Bank of Sri Lanka where she served as Deputy Governor, Mrs. Cooray brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her leadership roles. Her tenure has been marked by astute decision-making, visionary leadership and a commitment to excellence. In recognition of Mrs. Cooray's outstanding contributions, Mr. Lasitha Wimalaratne, CEO of HNBA, remarked, "Mrs. Rose Cooray's induction into the Hall of Fame is well deserved and a testament to her exemplary leadership. I’m proud to state that under her guidance, HNB Assurance has achieved unprecedented growth and success, setting new benchmarks in the industry. Her visionary approach and strategic initiatives have been instrumental in positioning us for sustained excellence in the years to come. I’d like to extend my congratulations to Mrs. Cooray on this great achievement." “Mrs. Cooray's induction to the Great Manager Awards Hall of Fame is a fitting recognition” opined, Mr. Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNBGI. “Personally, to me, what sets her leadership style apart is how she extends her influence and support way beyond boardroom discussions, making a conscious effort to hear every voice and inspire action. Her willingness to go above and beyond has certainly shaped how we operate as a company. At HNBGI we are extremely proud of her recognition and I’d like to congratulate Mrs. Cooray on her induction to the Hall of Fame”</p>
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Apr
<p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">HNB Assurance PLC, is delighted to announce the relocation of its branches to prime locations in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya. These strategic moves reflect on the company's intention to enhancing accessibility and service delivery to customers in key regions across the island. Providing convenient access to its comprehensive range of insurance products and services, including protection, health, savings, retirement and </span><span style="line-height:150%;mso-spacerun:yes;"> </span><span style="line-height:150%;">MRP has contributed to the progress of the company, showcasing a 20% year on year growth continuously over the past three years. </span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Lasitha Wimalaratne, CEO of HNBA, expressing his thoughts at the branch openings, stated, “The decision to relocate our branches in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya was driven by our strategic vision to position ourselves in key high-traffic areas, enabling us to foster deeper connections with our customers and offer tailored insurance solutions that safeguard what matters most to them. As we embark on this journey of growth, our branch network remains integral, serving as the bedrock to our customer-centric approach. I have full confidence that these new locations will not only amplify our presence but also elevate the level of service we provide to the local communities."</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">Mr. Harindra Ramasinghe, Chief Business Officer – Advisor Distribution Channel, emphasized the significance of the relocations in enhancing customer experience. "At HNB Assurance, we are constantly striving to exceed customer expectations and deliver exceptional value. Last year, we were honored for our pioneering Insurance Distribution initiative at the prestigious Emerging Asia Insurance Awards, a recognition which underscores our commitment not only to expansion but also for being innovative with our Distribution Strategy. The relocation of our branches in Nugegoda and Nuwara Eliya enables us to build closer relationships with our customers and provide them with unparalleled support and assistance. With a branch network of 69 branches and an advisor force in excess of 3500, the advisor distribution channel at HNBA has consistently displayed growth and innovation. I extend my heartfelt appreciation for the dedication and hard work of our teams and convey my best wishes for success to both branch teams.”</span></span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height:150%;text-align:justify;"><span style="font-family:"HNBA & GI";font-size:10.0pt;"><span style="line-height:150%;">The Nugegoda branch is now located at 69, S da S Jayasingha Mawatha, Kohuwala, Nugegoda, while the Nuwara Eliya branch has been relocated to 31/1/1, Lowson Street, Nuwara Eliya. </span></span><o:p></o:p></p>
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