BOC makes history as only Sri Lankan bank in World’s Top 500 Banking Brands 2026
Daily FT: In a historic achievement that places Sri Lanka on the global banking map, Bank of Ceylon (BOC) has been recognised as the only Sri Lankan bank ranked among the World’s Top 500 Banking Brands in 2026 by the internationally renowned brand valuation consultancy Brand Finance.
This landmark recognition marks the first time in history that a Sri Lankan bank has secured a place in this prestigious global ranking, positioning BOC among the world banking brands. The recognition not only highlights the strength of the bank but also reflects the growing global recognition of Sri Lanka’s financial institutions.
The annual ranking compiled by Brand Finance evaluates banking brands worldwide using internationally recognised methodologies that measure both brand value and brand strength. The assessment considers a wide range of factors including financial performance, brand perceptions, which relate to the level of brand familiarity and the views stakeholders have of a brand, and customer behaviours, which are the impacts that those perceptions have on demand, price, and advocacy.
BOC’s inclusion in this global ranking brings international visibility to an institution that has remained a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s financial system for more than eight decades. Today, with a network of over 660 branches and more than 2,500 touchpoints, BOC maintains one of the most extensive banking networks in the country. Serving over 16 million customer accounts, the bank reaches communities across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas, supporting individuals, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), corporates, exporters, importers, entrepreneurs, agricultural enterprises, and public institutions.
BOC has also established a strong presence in key locations such as a subsidiary in London, UK; branches in Male and Hulhumalé in the Maldives; Chennai, India; and the Seychelles. Through this vast reach, BOC continues to play a pivotal role in the daily economic life of Sri Lankans while supporting the country’s broader development ambitions.
Chairman Kavinda de Zoysa noted that the achievement is not only a recognition of the bank’s strength but also a moment of pride for the nation.
“BOC’s recognition among the world’s Top 500 Banking Brands is not only a proud moment for our institution but also a significant milestone for Sri Lanka. For the first time in history, a Sri Lankan bank has earned a place in this prestigious global ranking, demonstrating that our nation’s financial institutions have the strength, credibility, and resilience to stand alongside the world’s leading banking brands,” he said.
“This achievement reflects the trust placed in us by millions of customers, our strong governance framework, and the unwavering dedication of our employees. As the nation’s bank, our vision extends beyond domestic leadership. We are committed to strengthening Sri Lanka’s presence in global financial markets while expanding our international engagement and serving overseas customers. At BOC, we firmly believe that institutional success must translate into national progress. This recognition reinforces our commitment to continue contributing meaningfully to the country while proudly carrying Sri Lanka’s name onto the global stage,” de Zoysa added.
The recognition follows another significant milestone for the bank, which has consistently been recognised as Sri Lanka’s Most Valuable Brand by Brand Finance Lanka and once again regained the top position in 2025 with a brand value of Rs. 57.4 billion. Complementing this achievement, BOC has also earned the prestigious Superbrands status, further strengthening its reputation as one of the country’s most trusted and influential brands.
General Manager/Chief Executive Officer Y.A. Jayathilaka said that the achievement reflects both the bank’s strong legacy and its commitment to innovation and customer centric transformation.
“Being recognised among the world’s Top 500 Banking Brands is a testament to the strength, resilience, and enduring legacy of BOC. At a time when the global banking industry continues to evolve rapidly, this achievement demonstrates that a Sri Lankan institution can confidently compete within the global financial landscape,” he said.
OSL take:
Sri Lanka’s economy has shown great resilience to external and internal shocks through the years with the latest being the unprecedented economic crisis faced by the country in 2022. The quick turnaround recorded by the country and the return of the economy on a growth path have attracted the attention of the foreign business community while also attracting them to explore opportunities in Sri Lanka. With the country now poised as an emerging business destination in the South Asian region supported by Sri Lanka’s strategic positioning in the Indian Ocean, the strong trade ties with many foreign countries, and the business conducive environment has received a further boost with a strong and robust banking network in the country. A strong and resilient banking network is a prerequisite to any country on the path to becoming a regional hub and Sri Lanka is in possession of this key feature. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has disturbed businesses of many foreign businesses/investors with many looking at other Asian destinations to move to and these businesses/investors could explore moving to Sri Lanka. They could set up bases in Sri Lanka and engage with other countries in the region through the preferential treatment enjoyed by Sri Lanka with these countries.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20260318/Z_3 |