Colombo, Sri Lanka – 25 August 2026 – The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has released its daily economic indicators for 24 August 2026, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the nation’s financial health. The data reveals a period of relative stability across key macroeconomic fronts, even as global energy prices continue to exhibit volatility.
Macroeconomic Performance: Growth and Inflation Trends
Sri Lanka’s economic landscape saw a positive turn in the first quarter of 2026, with Real GDP Growth recorded at 5.1%. This figure signals a recovering economy, building on efforts to foster sustainable growth and indicating positive momentum for the Sri Lankan economy.
On the inflation front, the National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) Year-on-Year change for July 2026 stood at 7.2%, while the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) Year-on-Year change for the same month was 7.3%. These figures indicate that inflationary pressures are being managed, maintaining single-digit growth and offering some relief to consumers.
The Central Bank’s monetary policy continues to be watchful, with the Policy Rate (OPR) at 9.40% and the Standing Deposit Facility Rate (SDFR) at 8.70%. The Weekly Average Prime Lending Rate (AWPR) was noted at 10.86%.
Exchange Rate Movements and Money Market Dynamics
The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) showed moderate movements against major global currencies on August 24. The indicative USD/LKR spot exchange rate was Rs. 329.45 per US Dollar. Commercial bank Telegraphic Transfer (TT) rates for the US Dollar were 324.5454 (buying) and 333.5962 (selling). Other key exchange rates included:
- GBP: Buying Rs. 441.7939, Selling Rs. 456.5898
- EUR: Buying Rs. 377.7963, Selling Rs. 391.1961
- JPY: Buying Rs. 2.0350, Selling Rs. 2.1100
In the money market, overnight liquidity saw a significant increase, reaching Rs. 123.21 billion on August 24, up from Rs. 78.51 billion on August 21. This suggests ample liquidity within the banking system.
Yield rates for Treasury Bills also saw minor adjustments:
- 91 Day T-Bills: 9.06%
- 182 Day T-Bills: 9.44%
- 364 Day T-Bills: 9.89%
Colombo Stock Exchange Performance
The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) registered a robust day of trading. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) closed at 21,344.77, while the S&P SL20 stood at 6,009.40. Daily turnover reached an impressive Rs. 16,851.83 million, reflecting active participation from investors. Market Capitalization was recorded at Rs. 7,727.44 billion, with a PE Ratio of 11.24.
Foreign participation saw purchases totaling Rs. 52.39 million and sales amounting to Rs. 962.29 million, indicating net foreign outflow for the day.
Energy Sector Update: Global Prices and Local Consumption
Global crude oil prices remained a key focal point. On August 24, Brent crude oil was priced at USD 94.91 per barrel. Refined petroleum products also saw elevated international prices, with Petrol (Singapore Platts) at USD 162.05 per barrel and Diesel (Singapore Platts) at USD 154.58 per barrel.
Locally, Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) pump prices remained unchanged:
- Petrol (92 octane): Rs. 414.00 per litre
- Auto Diesel: Rs. 382.00 per litre
- Kerosene: Rs. 285.00 per litre
Electricity generation data for August 24 indicated a total energy generation of 56.13 GWh, meeting a peak demand of 2,892.70 MW. The energy mix highlighted a reliance on thermal sources alongside a significant contribution from renewables:
- Hydro: 33.6%
- Thermal Coal: 22.1%
- Solar: 19.1%
- Thermal Oil: 17.8%
- Wind: 7.1%
- Biomass: 0.3%
These daily economic indicators from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka offer valuable insights for policymakers, businesses, and the public alike, painting a picture of Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic journey.
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