Central Depository Systems (Pvt) Ltd (CDS), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), commemorated its 35^th anniversary by ringing the market opening bell at the Colombo Stock Exchange last week, marking three and a half decades of supporting the growth and development of Sri Lanka's capital market infrastructure.

The ceremony brought together members of the CDS and CSE Boards, and former leaders of the institution to celebrate CDS's journey since its establishment in 1991 as South Asia's first Central Securities Depository and the seventh of its kind globally.

Delivering the welcome remarks, Head of CDS, Mr. Nadeera Athukorale, remarked “For thirty-five years, the story of CDS has been one of continuous commitment, continuous improvement, and continuous dedication – powering trust, enabling progress, and shaping the future. Generations of employees have carried that torch forward.”

Chief Market Operations Officer of CSE Mr. Chandrakanth Jayasinghe remarked upon the anniversary and the role of CDS in Sri Lanka’s capital market stating, “Thirty-five years of achievement have positioned CDS as a cornerstone of market infrastructure, enabling seamless post-trade operations and supporting long-term market development.”

Chairman of CDS, Mr. Ray Abeywardena, in his keynote address, reflected on the bold leap forward represented by the establishment of CDS and the transition to a scripless system, while highlighting the institution's enduring role in Sri Lanka's capital market infrastructure. Emphasizing the significance of CDS, he stated, "CDS is considered the backbone of the CSE and provides an invaluable service. It is far more than a mere technology platform; it is an institution of trust and integrity. It safeguards the integrity of ownership and commands the highest levels of trust and confidence of all stakeholders. It also ensures efficiency, strong governance, transparency, accountability and resilience throughout its 35 years of unwavering service."

Addressing the gathering, CEO of the Colombo Stock Exchange and former Head of CDS, Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike, reflected on the future direction of CDS, saying, "We envision a CDS that serves as Sri Lanka's National Depository, offers trusted escrow solutions, safeguards digital credentials through EduVault, powers an interconnected financial ecosystem, and embraces FinTech innovation."

A special address was delivered by Mr. Ravi Peiris, the first General Manager of the Colombo Stock Exchange, who reflected on the formative years of both the CSE and CDS. He recalled how the CSE emerged following economic liberalization, while CDS was established to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving share market and growing investor participation. Mr. Peiris noted that CDS marked a significant step into the digital age and, as the first depository of its kind in South Asia and the seventh globally, was a pioneering initiative. Despite numerous challenges, the project was successfully realized with the support of USAID and the industry leadership

As part of the anniversary celebrations, CDS unveiled several new digital service offerings aimed at further enhancing convenience, accessibility and engagement for stakeholders. These included the launch of the CDS WhatsApp Chatbot, designed to provide users with quick and convenient access to information and support services; the newly launched CDS e-Connect Web Portal, offering an enhanced digital experience for CDS account holders; and the CDS Corporate Solutions Virtual AGM e-Voting Solution, a new platform designed to support digital shareholder participation and corporate governance through virtual Annual General Meetings and electronic voting capabilities.

A special segment of the event was dedicated to recognizing individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping the CDS over the past three and a half decades. Commemorative plaques were presented to former Heads of the CDS; Mr. Renuke Wijayawardhane, Mr. Charitha Dumbukola, Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike, and Mr. Nalin Fonseka.

Since its establishment, CDS has remained at the forefront of capital market development, providing secure and efficient depository services while continuously introducing innovative solutions for investors, issuers and market participants. Today, with over one million accounts and a comprehensive suite of digital services, CDS continues to play a central role in safeguarding investor assets and supporting the integrity of Sri Lanka's securities market.

As CDS embarks on its next chapter, the institution remains focused on digital transformation, innovation, strategic partnerships and the development of future-ready solutions that will contribute to the continued growth and resilience of Sri Lanka's capital market.

Pictured - Top (L – R):  Ms. Vindhya Colombage, Manager – Depository Services, CDS R&D Strategy and Projects, Central Depository Services Ltd (CDS); Mr. Chandrakanth Jayasinghe, Chief Market Operations Officer (COO), Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE); Mr. Nadeera Athukorale, Head of CDS; Mr. Kosala Gamage, Director of CDS & CSE; Mr. Jayantha Fernando, Director of CDS & CSE; Mr. Arjuna Herath, Director of CDS & CSE; Mr. Rajeeva Bandaranaike, CEO of CSE;  Mr. Ray Abeywardena, Chairman of CDS & Director of CSE; Mr. Dimuthu Abeyesekera, Chairman of CSE; Mr. Senaka Kakiriwaragodage, Director of CSE; Ms. Ruchira Jayasinghe, Manager – Central Control and Compliance, CDS; Mr. Ruwan Manathunga, Director of CSE Clear Pvt Ltd.

Members of the Central Depository Systems Pvt Ltd gathering to commemorate the 35^th anniversary of CDS.