The Guardian Stock Market Challenge 2025 showcased remarkable analytical talent and crowned the next generation of investment leaders.

The Department of Finance, Faculty of Management Studies and Commerce, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, together with Guardian Fund Management Limited, proudly hosted the Awards Ceremony of the Guardian Stock Market Challenge 2025 at the Senate Board Room of the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. The event celebrated the culmination of months of rigorous research, portfolio construction, and analytical work carried out by the undergraduates of the Department of Finance in
partnership with Sri Lanka’s leading fund management institution.

Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Neelangie Nanayakkara, Head of the Department of Finance, emphasized the importance of the Guardian Stock Market Challenge as an experiential learning platform designed to bridge theoretical knowledge and real-world investment decision-making. She highlighted the Department’s continued commitment to nurturing industry-ready finance graduates equipped with the analytical and strategic capabilities required in today’s evolving capital market landscape.

Following the welcome, the top two finalist teams selected after a highly competitive evaluation process presented their investment theses before the distinguished gathering. These presentations showcased months of extensive sector studies, stock valuations, and portfolio rationalization, reflecting the participants’ dedication, discipline, and increasing sophistication in equity research and investment
analysis.

The ceremony was graced by Ms. Vindhya Jayasekara, Chief Executive Officer, Designate of the Colombo Stock Exchange, who attended as the Chief Guest. In her address, she commended the analytical depth demonstrated by the finalists and spoke on the growing relevance of artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT in the field of finance. While noting how AI enhances analytical efficiency and broadens access to financial insights, she cautioned against overreliance on automated tools, highlighting concerns related to data accuracy, algorithmic bias, and the erosion of human judgment. She stressed that AI must complement, not substitute, the critical thinking, ethical responsibility, and professional skepticism required from future finance professionals.

Following her remarks, Mr. Shahan De Silva, Senior Vice President , Research at Guardian Fund Management Limited, addressed the audience. He shared insights into how the competition was structured and conducted, explaining the rigorous monthly evaluations, portfolio reviews, and industry standard assessment processes adopted throughout the program. He acknowledged the remarkable commitment of the students, noting that the Challenge offers unparalleled exposure to equity research, financial modelling, portfolio construction, and real market dynamics. He further emphasized the value of industry mentorship and how such collaborations strengthen the bridge between academia and practice.

After months of analysis and performance tracking, Team 10 emerged as the Champion of the Guardian Stock Market Challenge 2025, while Team 7 was recognized as the Runners-Up. In recognition of their outstanding performance, the Champions and Runners-Up were awarded medals and certificates, along with cash prizes of Rs. 350,000 and Rs. 150,000 respectively, sponsored by Guardian Fund Management Limited. All other participating teams who successfully completed the program were also presented with certificates, appreciating their enthusiasm, resilience, and dedication throughout the competition period.

The ceremony was attended by senior academics of the Department of Finance, members of Guardian Fund Management, industry experts, and students. Concluding the event, Ms. Tamashi Kottearachchi delivered the Vote of Thanks, extending appreciation to Guardian Fund Management Limited, the Department of Finance, mentors, judges, and the organizing committee for their unwavering support and contributions.

The Guardian Stock Market Challenge 2025 once again reaffirmed its position as a transformative learning initiative, empowering the next generation of finance leaders with critical market insight, analytical expertise, and practical investment experience.