DFCC Bank PLC has made history by becoming the first foreign corporate entity to list a bond on the National Stock Exchange – International Exchange (NSE IX) at GIFT City, India. This milestone marks a major advancement for Sri Lanka’s capital markets and positions DFCC Bank as a regional leader in sustainable finance.
The listing of DFCC Bank’s Green Bond on NSE IX completes a strategic multi-listing journey that began with its initial issuance in Sri Lanka, followed by a dual listing on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. This latest listing not only enhances the bank’s access to global capital markets but also highlights its commitment to cross-border, scalable sustainable finance.
A ceremonial bell-ringing event was held on 9 June 2025 at the Grand Mercure, GIFT City, to mark the occasion. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including K. Rajaraman, Chairperson of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), as the Chief Guest. DFCC Bank was represented by CEO Thimal Perera and Senior Vice President Prins Perera.
“This listing is a signal of Sri Lanka’s readiness to engage regionally through future-forward finance,” said Thimal Perera. “DFCC Bank is showing how institutions in emerging economies can structure sustainable capital in line with global standards. This achievement bridges South Asia’s financial systems with international markets in a meaningful, purpose-led way.”
V. Balasubramaniam, MD and CEO of NSE IX, welcomed the listing, stating, “We are pleased to have DFCC Bank PLC as the first foreign issuer on NSE IX at GIFT IFSC. The Rs. 2.5 billion Green Bond listing reflects the potential for greater regional collaboration through GIFT City and supports BIMSTEC’s vision for stronger trade and investment ties.”
Proceeds from the bond will be used to finance renewable energy initiatives in Sri Lanka, particularly solar power projects that meet the Sri Lanka Green Finance Taxonomy. These investments contribute toward the nation’s goal of sourcing 70% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
The Green Bonds are aligned with the International Capital Market Association’s Green Bond Principles and support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals—specifically SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
