In a bid to improve investor confidence Sri Lanka, the Securities and Exchange Commission of Sri Lanka (SEC) which regulates the capital markets has said it is considering a mandatory rating for stock broking firms.

SEC chairman Thilak Karunaratne is reported as saying in the SEC’s annual report that stock broking companies perform an important role in the capital market by facilitating trades for investors. The industry has ‘progressed considerably’ in providing services as well as in terms of the number of players in the market.

“In order to enable especially retail investors to select a stock broker by ascertaining the credibility of the firm, the SEC is exploring the possibility of introducing a mandatory rating for stock broking firms,” Karunaratne said.

“It is envisaged that this rating will aim to preserve the integrity of the market and protect investor interest.”

Karunaratne said the SEC will have an industry consultation before implementing the proposed mandatory rating requirement.