x-pert said:
Can't simply neglect the fact that DFCC,DFCC wardhana, Commercial Bank do have shares in Seylan bank. In 2005 or 2006 there were talks with Commercial bank chairman Mr. Mahendra about a possible merger between another bank which I was involved (Part of the same umbrella, but can't expose the name of the bank though). So I'm pretty sure Commercial bank is having an eye on Seylan Bank now. And thinking about their past strategies, they can essentially express their interest.
In fact, if that happens, Commercial bank will definitely have a monopoly in the banking industry, which Central bank will surely appose. So the ultimatum will go to a foreign investor in that sense. But again... Let's see
I think I know about what you are talking... but there is also a prevailing rumour that Commercial Bank is experiencing a credit crunch situation, especially due to the reason that it has faced some unexpected losses due to the economic recession that is faced worldwide (Well known as the Global economic crisis)... but there is no trustable way to verify that again...
So we melt down to square number one again... and yes I partly agree to your statement that Commercail bank will gain more power if it does this merger, but not a monopoly, according to recent statistics, Commercial Bank has only a market share of 6% and is expected to fall...
Anyway since the EoI has been announced, there will be a big change in the bank soon, the question is its positveness or negativeness, there is an equal chance for oth as it appears.
But in my opinion, it is best for the Goverment to hold onto the bank further, and if BoC is not willing for this, maybe another semi-government owned bank like Peoples' Bank will be more than happy to have this...( presently, Peoples' Bank is the second leading Govt. owned bank, with an expected market share of about 14% or more)
Talking about Lalith Kotalawela, he is willing to give up his shares too, in order to settle the debts of Golden Key. Since this has been pretty emphasised repeatedly, I feel we may not hear of a Lalith Kotalawela, senior director of Seylan Bank any more