Bank of Ceylon (BOC), Sri Lanka's No. 1 Bank, celebrated its 87th Anniversary on 1 August 2026, marking another milestone in its remarkable journey as the "Bankers to the Nation." Since its establishment in 1939, the Bank has remained a trusted partner in Sri Lanka's progress, evolving alongside the nation while supporting individuals, businesses and communities through financial strength, innovation and inclusive banking.
Reflecting another year of exceptional performance, the Bank contributed Rs. 77 billion in taxes, reaffirming its position as Sri Lanka's largest corporate taxpayer, while recording a Profit Before Tax of Rs. 120.8 billion for the financial year 2025, further demonstrating its continued contribution to the country's economic progress.
Over the past 87 years, Bank of Ceylon has built a legacy founded on trust, resilience and service, with a steadfast commitment to empowering every Sri Lankan. The Bank continues to strengthen financial inclusion by extending accessible banking services to people across diverse regions, cultures and communities, ensuring that every customer has the opportunity to participate in the nation's economic growth.
Commenting on the occasion, Chairman Mr. Kavinda de Zoysa said, " Built on 87 years of trust, Bank of Ceylon proudly enters its 88th year as the true Banker to the Nation. Our commitment to driving financial inclusion, digital transformation, and sustainable national growth is stronger than ever. To meet and exceed customer expectations, we are focused on delivering innovative digital solutions, delivering exceptional service, and consolidating our market leadership. We will continue to build a resilient, inclusive financial ecosystem for all Sri Lankans and maintain our position as the Bankers to the Nation "
During the year, the Bank further strengthened its nationwide presence by providing banking access across all 331 Divisional Secretariat Divisions, expanding customer touchpoints to more than 2,500 across the island and bringing banking services closer to rural, underserved and indigenous communities. Complementing its strong domestic network, BOC continued to strengthen its international presence through its overseas operations in India (Chennai) , the United Kingdom, the Maldives and the Seychelles, enabling the Bank to better serve Sri Lankans and businesses engaged in international trade while extending its trusted banking services beyond Sri Lanka's shores.
BOC continued to accelerate its digital transformation journey with BOC Flex surpassing 2 million active users, while further expanding its digital banking ecosystem to meet the evolving needs of customers. The introduction of BOC Flex Tap & Pay, Sri Lanka's first mobile banking wallet-based contactless payment solution, together with the continued growth of BOC QR and the Bank's strong digital presence across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, reflects BOC's commitment to delivering innovative, secure and customer-centric banking experiences for customers across Sri Lanka.
The Bank also continued to strengthen its leadership in responsible banking and innovation. During the past year, BOC achieved numerous prestigious local and international accolades, recognising excellence in branding, digital transformation, sustainability, customer service, financial performance and innovation, reaffirming its position as one of the country's most respected financial institutions.
General Manager/Chief Executive Officer Mr. Y. A. Jayathilaka said,
“Our 87th anniversary is not only a celebration of a remarkable legacy, but also a reaffirmation of our enduring commitment to the nation. This milestone inspires us to continue setting new benchmarks in banking excellence. Built on trust, driven by service, and committed to transformation, we will continue to empower individuals, enable businesses, and strengthen communities through innovative, secure, and customer centric financial solutions. As bankers to the nation, our purpose remain unchanged, to help build a stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous Sri Lanka.”
As Bank of Ceylon begins its 88th year, the Bank remains committed to building on its proud legacy through innovation, accessibility, sustainability and service excellence while continuing to empower every Sri Lankan as the trusted Bankers to the Nation.The Bank extends its sincere appreciation to its valued customers, dedicated employees, esteemed stakeholders, and all those who have placed their trust and confidence in the Bank over the years. Their unwavering support has been the foundation of the Bank's enduring success and continues to inspire its commitment to empowering the nation through excellence, innovation, and trusted banking services.
