The Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council (CWEIC) has conveyed its condolences to Sri Lanka over the loss of life and extensive damage caused by Cyclone Ditwah, urging all Commonwealth nations to support the country’s recovery as the scale of devastation continues to unfold.

In a statement signed by CWEIC Chairman Lord Marland and Deputy Chairman Lord Swire, the council said: On behalf of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, we extend our sincere condolences to the President and people of Sri Lanka for the tragic loss of life and the widespread destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

With the death toll now exceeding 300, hundreds more people missing, and thousands left without homes or livelihoods, the impact on your nation is devastating, and affecting all parts of the country.

As Commonwealth friends, we acknowledge the suffering that Sri Lanka has already endured through natural disasters; floods, droughts, landslides, and the 2004 tsunami.

Sri Lanka has survived through the extraordinary efforts of countless volunteers and ordinary people. Once again, we see this remarkable resilience and cooperation from Sri Lankans who are working to restore order, basic services, and supplies where possible.

We appeal to all Commonwealth countries to support the recovery efforts, and we will keep Sri Lanka in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. CWEIC has a significant presence in Sri Lanka, and our Strategic Partners stand ready to assist in any way we can during this difficult time. We will continue to support international efforts and appeal to Commonwealth nations to contribute to Sri Lanka’s recovery.

DFCC Bank said it has reached a deal to buy the retail and wealth management business of Standard Chartered Bank in Sri Lanka for 3.7 billion rupees.

The transaction is expected to be concluded in early 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, DFCC Bank said in a stock exchange filing.

“The proposed acquisition forms part of DFCC Bank’s strategic growth agenda to strenghten its retail and wealth management franchise, build scale and create sustainable value for customers, employees and shareholders alike,” the filing said.

The transaction will be funded by internal funds.

Master Trading Academy (MTA), one of Sri Lanka’s leading and most trusted professional trading education institutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Bybit, the world’s second-largest and fastest-growing cryptocurrency exchange. This groundbreaking collaboration marks the first time a global crypto exchange has partnered with a Sri Lankan crypto education academy, creating a major milestone in the country’s digital finance landscape.

Through this partnership, MTA and Bybit are launching a comprehensive Crypto Education Program designed to equip aspiring traders, investors, and blockchain enthusiasts with the knowledge and practical skills required to engage confidently in the global crypto market. The course, valued at LKR 36,000, will be offered completely free of charge to 120 selected participants, who will be trained in three batches of 40 students.

Registrations are now open.

• https://docs.google.com/forms/u/1/d/1c5LZK5KUkhV-X1qUGzKG9dN-te9NmAuANQCOJsMtHnQ/viewform?edit_requested=true

Seats are limited.