HNB crowned Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka for the 15th time at TAB Global Excellence

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HNB crowned Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka for the 15th time at TAB Global Excellence


HNB Assistant General Manager – Network Business, Supun Dias, HNB Assistant General Manager / Head of Retail Banking, Kanchana Karunagama, and HNB Chief Manager – SME Credit Underwriting, S. Narenthiran, receiving the Best Retail Bank award from TAB Global representatives.




HNB PLC has once again been recognized as the Best Retail Bank in Sri Lanka, securing the title for the 15th time at the TAB Global Excellence in Retail Financial Services Awards 2025, held in Tokyo, Japan. This achievement underscores the Bank’s unwavering commitment to innovation, financial inclusion, and customer-centric banking, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the nation’s economic progress.

“For over a century, HNB has stood firm in our mission to serve as a partner in progress to all Sri Lankans. Throughout our history, we have evolved, integrating cutting-edge technology and global best practices into a deeply customer-centric business model. Our success in retaining leadership of the retail banking sector for 15 years provides further validation to our approach and inspires us to continue striving for greater heights moving forward,” said HNB Managing Director/CEO, Damith Pallewatte.

HNB retail banking innovations have redefined customer convenience and financial inclusivity. At the forefront of the Bank’s most recent initiatives has been the launch of a trilingual mobile banking application, which empowers customers to interact with banking services in Sinhala, Tamil or English.

This tailored approach not only enhances accessibility but also drives personalized customer experiences, streamlining digital transactions and boosting net fee and commission income. These digital solutions underscore HNB’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of customer needs.

In addition, HNB’s strategic focus on transforming its retail banking operations has resulted in a suite of initiatives designed to enhance product offerings and customer engagement. From specialized retail products—such as savings schemes aimed at nurturing a healthy savings habit among students—to efficient digital processes that reduce turnaround times, every innovation reinforces the Bank’s leadership in the retail segment.

By placing the customer at the heart of its strategy and continuously evolving its digital capabilities, HNB remains a trusted partner in driving financial empowerment and economic progress in Sri Lanka.

“Our ability to adapt and lead in an ever-changing financial landscape is what differentiates HNB. We continue to invest in technology and customer-centric solutions to create seamless banking experiences. This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” noted HNB Chief Operating Officer, Sanjay Wijemanne.

HNB's dedication to enhancing customer convenience was also recognized with multiple accolades at the LankaPay Technnovation Awards 2024, where the bank secured the 'Bank of the Year for Excellence in Customer Convenience' award. This honor reflects HNB's efforts in pioneering digital payment solutions and its ethos of prioritizing customer needs. 

With a steadfast commitment to progress, HNB continues to shape the future of banking in Sri Lanka, driving financial empowerment and setting new standards for excellence.