HNB Life has reported a strong financial performance for the first six months of 2026, delivering significant growth in premiums, income, assets, and policyholder benefits as the insurer continued to build on the momentum created by its recent corporate rebranding.
HNB Life records 43% premium growth in first half of 2026
For the six months ended June 30, 2026, HNB Life recorded a Life Gross Written Premium (GWP) of Rs.12.34 billion, representing a 43 percent increase from Rs.8.63 billion reported during the corresponding period of 2025. The results reflect the company’s continued focus on expanding its customer base while maintaining strong policy retention and operational efficiency.
The insurer’s top-line growth was supported by a 44 percent increase in net earned premium, which rose to Rs.11.71 billion. The company attributed the improvement to strong policy persistency and an accelerated pace of new business acquisition, highlighting sustained demand for its life insurance products.
Financial performance was further strengthened by higher investment returns and disciplined underwriting practices. Total net income increased by 34 percent to Rs.15.96 billion, supported by interest and dividend income amounting to Rs.4.10 billion.
During the first half of the year, the company reported a profit after tax of Rs.434 million, despite not recognizing any surplus transfer from the Life Insurance Fund, which is typically accounted for following the annual actuarial valuation conducted at year-end.
A key highlight of the results was the substantial increase in insurance claims and policyholder benefits paid during the period. The company disbursed Rs.3.99 billion in net insurance benefits and claims, more than doubling the Rs.1.90 billion paid during the same period in 2025. The increase reflects HNB Life’s continued commitment to fulfilling its obligations to policyholders while providing financial protection to customers and their families.
The company’s balance sheet also strengthened during the six-month period. Total assets increased to Rs.72.71 billion as of June 30, 2026, compared with Rs.68.44 billion at the end of 2025.
Meanwhile, financial investments expanded to Rs.65.84 billion, supporting the company’s long-term investment strategy and enhancing its ability to generate stable returns. The Life Insurance Fund also grew significantly, reaching Rs.55.69 billion, reflecting the continued accumulation of policyholder funds and the company’s expanding insurance portfolio.
Supported by a total equity base of Rs.11.15 billion, HNB Life said it remains well-positioned to sustain future growth while maintaining a strong capital foundation to support policyholder commitments and business expansion.
Commenting on the results, Chairman Stuart Chapman described the first half of 2026 as a defining period for the company.
“The first half of 2026 stands as a defining epoch for HNB Life, characterised by a historic corporate transition and resolute financial execution,” Chapman said.
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Lasitha Wimalaratne said the company’s performance reflects years of disciplined execution and strategic planning.
“Our first-half performance is a testament to the strategic clarity and operational discipline we have meticulously cultivated over the past few years,” he said.
The latest results demonstrate the positive impact of the company’s corporate transformation and reinforce its position within Sri Lanka’s life insurance industry. As customer demand for financial protection and long-term savings solutions continues to grow, HNB Life expects to build on its strong first-half momentum through continued innovation, disciplined risk management, and customer-focused service delivery.