HNB General Blog

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) recorded a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 1.175 BN for FY 2020, growing 16% compared to the corresponding period last year, whilst the Group’s Gross Written Premium (GWP) reached  LKR 10.4 BN for the year under review.

Sharing her views on the financial growth, Mrs. Rose Cooray, Chairperson of HNBA and HNBGI stated, “2020 undoubtedly was a challenging year to all of us. However, amidst the unprecedented adverse challenges presented by the outbreak of this global pandemic, as a Group, HNBA was able to surpass the LKR 1 BN mark in PAT for the second consecutive year, auguring well for the agility and resilience of the businesses to quickly recalibrate itself in the midst the unprecedented calamity to continue to create and deliver value to all its stakeholders”. Mrs. Cooray further added, “The Group remains well focused on what’s ahead and to further consolidate its firm footing in the market by curating its business strategies through efforts of cost optimization, strengthening the Group’s investment portfolio and seizing market segments with high growth potential. I wish to thank the Board of Directors as well as the CEO and the Executive Committees as well as the Staff and Management of both Companies for a job well done”.

Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Prasantha Fernando shared his thoughts stating, “Our teams proved their mettle last year, by maintaining their resolute focus on the end goal, driven by an agile mindset, the thirst for prompt and meticulous execution and being focused on digitalization; whilst as an organisation, our philosophy has always been Putting People First, be it staff, agents, contract staff and customers. In this regard, these results that we are indeed proud to present have being achieved without any curtailment of their remuneration or benefits. The Management Team was able to successfully manage the change process with regards to adapting and evolving to the new normal as well as embracing technology that helped us operate in environs within which movement was constrained. The Group was able to surpass the significant LKR 10 BN milestone in GWP with a growth of 5% compared to the corresponding period last year. Interest Income of the Group saw a growth of 11% to LKR 2.5 BN even in spite of the decreasing interest rate regime that we witnessed, driven by portfolio growth and sound investment strategies. Total Assets of the Group increased by 19% to LKR 31.7 BN whilst the Total Liabilities of the Group grew by 18% to LKR 23.5 BN. Whilst we are pleased to continue to be rated A (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka for ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’, our Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) increased from 322% in 2019 to 338% in 2020 for the Life Business. HNBGI’s CAR too increased to 256% from 226% in 2019, both very well above the minimum regulatory requirements. Mr. Fernando further added, “new product development too was undertaken to enhance our service to specific segments of the market which saw HNBA launch two products aimed at strengthening our foothold in the health insurance space with the launch of SupremeHealth Max and SuperCI, while HNBGI came up with a novel concept in motor insurance called Pay As You Claim. I am confident that the team will take on 2021 with a fresh sense of purpose and vigour”.

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.

Paying tribute to the gracious spirit of womanhood, HNB Assurance PLC and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited announced the launch of Liya Harasara for the 9^th consecutive year. Liya Harsara is an exclusive offering with a number of special benefits offered to all women in commemoration of International Women’s Day.

Sharing his views, Mr. Prasantha Fernando, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI stated, “It is no secret that women are the backbone of any household and therefore take on a pivotal role in uplifting the quality of life of the family first, and also contributing immensely to societal and economic upliftment. A woman plays multiple roles in today’s society from being a caring daughter, to a loving mother, to a fearless leader and thereby strengthening and supporting those around her. Liya Harasara is our way of thanking all ladies and paying tribute to the unbreakable spirit of womanhood, so that you are very well protected and empowered to go beyond all boundaries to achieve the impossible”.

Lasitha Wimalaratne, Chief Operating Officer of HNBA stated, “We are indeed pleased to launch Liya Harasara for the 9^th consecutive year.  Over the years Liya Harasara has become one of the well sought after benefits in our portfolio. This year’s edition of Liya Harasara offers a range of special insurance benefits and in addition, HNBA and HNBGI have partnered with Durdans Hospital, Vision Care, Swarnamahal Jewelers, DoubleTreee by Hilton Weerawila and Singer Plus to offer exclusive discount schemes to Policyholders”.

Chief Operating Officer of HNBGI, Sithumina Jayasundara stated, “Women are the center of our homes, society and economy and we have come together as a Group to honor and praise the unbreakable spirit of womanhood. We firmly believe that these special benefits would add value to the livelihoods of women and would boost their confidence to take on the challenges of tomorrow”.

The 9^th edition of ‘Liya Harasara’ will offer an additional Free Life Cover of up to Rs. 1 Million for one year from HNB Assurance for Regular Premium Life Insurance policies. Moreover, a Daily Benefit for child birth and pregnancy related hospitalisation subject to maximum of 3 days per year would be offered to the Policyholder and a gift voucher worth of Rs. 5,000/- for one child birth between 8^th March to 31^st December 2021, if Hospitalisation Benefit is taken and Policy being in force. In addition, ‘Liya Harasara’ offers a free Personal Accident Cover up to Rs. 500,000 for every Motor Insurance Policy obtained by females from HNBGI. ‘Liya Harasara’ policy holders will also benefit from a range of special discounts from Durdans Hospitals, Vision Care, Swarnamahal, DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila and Singer Plus.

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) received the Great Place To Work® certification for the review period of 2020, and was elected as Best Workplaces among the Top 40 Best Workplaces in Sri Lanka.

Sharing his views on the two Companies’ continuity in being best workplaces, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI Mr. Prasantha Fernando stated “Being elected as Best Workplaces is a great validation for the two Companies, as we are one family who are very attentive towards each other’s needs. It determines how well the Group has been true to its vision and core values, and also affirms that our people are happy and approve the Companies as their choice of an employer. In a challenging year, we have remained connected with our teams assuring them steady growth, and most of all, their place with us. Our actions during the Pandemic would speak volumes towards our commitment to our employees as we strongly believe actions would speak louder than mere words. I am confident of a bright and prosperous future together for HNBA and HNBGI, and I thank all the staff members for placing their confidence in the Company”.

Chief Human Resources Officer of HNBA and HNBGI, Mr. Dinuka Pattikiriarachchi also extended his sincere thoughts stating, “ A great workplace and a culture is not an overnight outcome. Rather it is a result of good leadership, long term planning and sustained practices.  What we have been awarded is a recognition of that. However, that does not mean we stop here. We will continue to invest in our efforts to create the best workplace one could hope to work for. I like to congratulate all the staff members of HNBA & HNBGI as this is their award which I was privileged enough to receive on behalf of them”.

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.

Global markets were subject to unforeseen turbulences in 2020, forcing many firms, especially in the financial sector, to revisit their strategic lock-ins and set feet over and out of their comfort zones to serve audiences. As this setting would not be back to what is desired to being ‘Normal’, HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI), a fast-growing and an innovatory powerhouse that provides general insurance solutions across the Country, discussed the spectrum of its key deliverances for 2021 and how strategies are being crafted to anchor exemplary performance in this challenging year.

Sharing his views, Chief Executive Officer of HNBGI and its parent Company, HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA), Mr. Prasantha Fernando stated, “In 2020 all eyes were on the drastic and yet unbelievable shifts in demand, supply and consumer needs that took the spotlight, setting in place novel solutions and pathways for us to collaborate and serve. As a renowned corporate, HNBGI adapted and successfully mastered many mechanisms to deliver well above standards, largely contributing to the 10 billion rupee turnover of the Group in 2020, which is a tremendous milestone to have achieved in the two companies’ history. We are now more than ever geared to take on 2021 by the meticulous execution of digital facilitators, introduction of new and improved products that are more apt towards today’s needs, and continuous expansion to be there for our invaluable customers. Also, a number of initiatives are set in place to train and provide progressive development for the knowledgeable team of professionals here at HNBGI, who with no doubt will push towards excellence in the year ahead”.

Speaking on strategy for 2021, Mr. Sithumina Jayasundara, Chief Operating Officer of HNBGI stated “Obtaining an insurance plan, be it, for your vehicle, property or business can be a daunting task, and with the ever-growing need to digitalise matters for the future, HNBGI is actively committed in amplifying its transformation over the digital sphere predominantly aimed at making such procedures simpler and more convenient. On account of this, tasks such as quotation generation, the processing of claims and payments thereof, as well as training and development via digital platforms will be few of the areas of focus. We believe this will supplement our efforts in providing a seamless customer service and experience, also by way of improved turnaround, satisfaction, and retention rates”.

Mr. Jayasundara continued, “Over time, HNBGI has cultivated key partnerships with a number of value adding services, establishing strong ties among the agency channel, Bancassurance channel, Corporate Sales Unit, Takaful Unit, Broker and Leasing Channels. Such components will work in sync to further sustain these relationships and bring in new collaborations to drive revenue, delivering promised returns to our stakeholders. As we widen our comprehensive portfolio of general insurance solutions by introducing revolutionary products such as MotorGuard Pay As You Claim, we will be taking more measures to modify and introduce a modern bouquet of products in the motor insurance and non-motor sphere with a host of benefits that best fits the fast paced needs of our audience”. 

HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) was incorporated in January, 2015 and specializes in Motor and Non-Motor Insurance Solutions, and is presently one of the fastest growing General Insurance Companies in Sri Lanka, with a network of 56 branches. The Company is ranked within the Top 100 Brands and has been awarded a ‘National Insurer Financial Strength Rating’ of ‘’A’’ (lka) by Fitch Ratings Lanka Limited and has obtained the Great Place to Work® Certification and is a fully owned subsidiary of HNB Assurance PLC. HNBA, the Parent Company specializing in Life Insurance solutions is ranked within the Top 100 Brands and Top 100 Companies in Sri Lanka and has won multiple accolades for Brand Excellence, Digital Marketing and HR Excellence and many awards for its Annual Reports at award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and the South Asian Federation of Accountants.

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) announced its Corporate Theme for year 2021, ‘Moving Ahead Strong and Resilient’.  As such, the Group will focus on key drivers; Stakeholder Value Creation, Sustainable Growth and Stability.

Sharing his views, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI, Mr. Prasantha Fernando stated, “The dawn of another brand new year fills our hearts with hope, determination and courage to surpass our goals and realise our aspirations that we have set for ourselves both at HNBA and HNBGI. 2020 was a challenging year for all of us but the HNBA Group was able to deliver a steady performance, owing to its commitment, determination and resilience. This year’s Corporate Theme of HNBA and HNBGI is built upon what we consider as the very Core Pillars of our business strategy, Stakeholder Value Creation, Sustainable Growth and Stability. As HNBA steps into its 20^th year in business, our teams are dedicated to create a difference by setting new benchmarks in terms of Service Excellence, Innovation, Transformation and Social Stewardship. The Management of HNBA and HNBGI firmly believes that with the direction of the Board and commitment of a dedicated team of professionals, the Group will strive to make a marked difference in 2021”. Mr. Fernando further added, “I take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt wishes to all our customers, shareholders, employees and their loved ones and that this new year will be one filled with peace, prosperity, good health and a sense of contentment”.

The lighting of the traditional oil lamp and kick-starting the new year was conducted in the form of a hybrid event keeping in line with the need for social distancing, attended by the Executive Committee led by the Chief Executive Officer and joined by the employees through a virtual platform.

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.

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) recorded a Profit After Tax (PAT) of LKR 500 MN during 1H 2020, depicting a steady growth amidst the outbreak of a global pandemic.

Speaking on the financial performance of the Group, Chairperson of HNBA and HNBGI, Mrs. Rose Cooray stated, “it is indeed a great pleasure to announce that HNB Assurance Group has achieved a significant PAT growth compared to the corresponding period of the previous year following an economic downturn caused by the outbreak of a global pandemic. Through the tireless efforts, our teams successfully navigated the challenging environment to deliver a noteworthy performance. The Life Insurance business recorded a PAT of LKR 176 MN showcasing a growth of 25%. The profit does not include any surplus transfer from the Life Fund. The General Insurance business recorded a PAT of LKR 323 MN depicting an impressive growth of 120%. These results reiterate the resilience of our sustainable core business model and the Group’s undivided focus in capturing market segments with growth potential. The unprecedented challenges arising from the COVID-19 outbreak together with other adverse global and market conditions have created a challenging backdrop which businesses around the globe are currently experiencing; but with the strategies of the Management together with the dedication of the staff members of HNBA and HNBGI and the Advisor Force, I’m sure we could overcome this uncertain turbulence”.

Sharing his views on the performance of the Group, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI, Mr. Prasantha Fernando stated, “HNBA Group delivered outstanding financial results amidst a number of macro-economic challenges presented during a global crisis. In a market backdrop where most businesses succumbed its profits to the outbreak of COVID-19, HNBA Group has delivered a notable performance. The Group recorded a Gross Written Premium (GWP) of LKR 4.5 BN. The investment income of the Group surpassed LKR 1.2 BN and the total assets of the Group surpassed LKR 29 BN. The Group has taken swift and effective measures and has adapted various agile initiatives following the COVID-19 outbreak, including enhancing its digital selling portals and claims settlement platforms. It is noteworthy to mention that the Life and General Insurance Funds surpassed values of LKR 15.7 BN and LKR 2.9 BN respectively reaffirming the Group’s firm footing”. Mr. Fernando further added, “the Management is thankful for the commitment and dedication of all employees during these trying times. The Management remains confident that together with the diversified business strategies the Group will be able to sustain its continuous growth and deliver value to all stakeholders”.

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.

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary, HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) announced the relocation of its Branch in Embilipitiya recently. The ceremonious occasion was graced by the presence of its Chief Guest, CEO of HNBA and HNBGI, Prasantha Fernando, accompanied by the senior members of the management in HNBA and HNBGI as well as other distinguished guests.

Speaking at the event, CEO of HNBA and HNBGI, Prasantha Fernando articulated, “The Company holds a long-standing relationship of togetherness with its customers in Embilipitiya, providing them all-inclusive protection and the value of fringe benefits one can experience through the service of insurance to protect their belongings and those who are dear to them . Dedicated to serving this cause, today’s momentous occasion demonstrates the Group’s continued commitment towards giving our best to customers, in fulfilling their insurance needs. Whilst the Company is focused on actively undertaking the many service enhancement initiatives, it has been our notion that cutting edge facilities would deliver greater service satisfaction, and in turn would make a ‘happy customer’. Thus, it is no doubt that this Branch will drive greater levels of service excellence, further contributing to the Company’s value creation framework”.

Sharing his views, Chief Operating Officer and Principal Officer of HNBA, Lasitha Wimalaratne stated, “This Branch would fortify an already strong customer servicing attribute of the Group, fostering streamlined service delivery between our invaluable customers and staff. Therefore, I am sure the commitment of our staff would nurture our singular aim towards industry best, and achieve the many milestones of excellence for a successful future of HNBA and HNBGI”.

Chief Operating Officer and Principal Officer of HNBGI, Sithumina Jayasundara expressed his views stating, “Strong and stable branch operations within our General Insurance business is a key pillar of business growth. This new facility is a strong testament for our firm stand within the market, also assisting our business goals in challenging 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 and won many awards for its Annual Reports at award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and SAFA (South Asian Federation of Accountants).

HNB Assurance PLC (HNBA) and its fully owned subsidiary HNB General Insurance Limited (HNBGI) recently concluded its Chairman’s and Long Service Awards Ceremony 2020 at the Taj Samudra, Colombo. Held in celebration of staff excellence, the event was attended by a limited number of guests as set out by the Company in adherence to all health and safety guidelines. This special occasion was joined by the members of the Senior Management of HNBA and HNBGI and other distinguished guests, to present and witness the crowning of 12 Chairman’s Award Winners and 08 Long Service Award Winners.

Expressing views on the event, Chief Executive Officer of HNBA and HNBGI Mr. Prasantha Fernando stated, “Operating amidst concerning times in terms of both, health and the economy, the Group has chartered its way through to confidently address many of its business pillars including stakeholder value creation and employee wellbeing as part of the Company’s drive towards industry excellence. Celebrating achievements, winning spirit and talents in this setting is a challenge, and yet we have come together to admire and reward the laudable efforts of our very fellow staff members as their immense dedication is core to the Group’s success. This is also evident by the Group’s recent Great Place to Work® certification. Furthermore, we firmly believe that tapping the capacity and contribution of our professional staff members to guide and equip them with skills and knowledge for their individual career development is primary in our advancement, and would also assist our market stand remain deep-rooted. I extend my heartiest wishes to the Winners and wish them all the very best in their future endeavors”.

Sharing his thoughts, Chief Human Resource Officer of HNBA and HNBGI Mr. Dinuka Pattikiriarachchi stated, “Recognizing and appreciating the value of an exceptional employee should not be determined upon the overall performance standards of a company, nor the favorability of the economic outlook posed by a particular year. It is a blunt fact that the COVID-19 Pandemic had brought about a challenging state over business, staging an inflexible uphill battle to reach pre-pandemic growth rates. Nevertheless, we as an organization stand firm in our commitment to nurture a great place to work in which employee recognition is an essential part in our way of life”.

Speaking further, Mr. Pattikiriarachchi stated, “This occasion is one such event in our employee calendar in which we stood not to divest from the said grounds. It is indeed in times such as this, that employers are required to ‘walk the talk’ for their most important asset, the inner public, the go-getters.  I am gladdened, and am sure that this ceremony was a reward for the past, and an investment for the future.”

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 Insurer 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. 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 and also won many awards for its Annual Reports at the Award ceremonies organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka and SAFA (South Asian Federation Accountants).