"The exchange rate remained broadly stable during 2019, supported by a significant improvement in the current account, despite some transient volatility experienced amidst outflows of portfolio investment, responding to domestic and global developments. The exchange rate strengthened during the first four months of 2019, as a result of the significant contraction in the trade deficit and an increase in financial inflows.

However, the exchange rate experienced some pressure in the immediate aftermath of the Easter Sunday attacks, and towards the latter part of 2019, reflecting the impact of heightened uncertainties in global markets, which resulted in some unwinding of portfolio investment by foreigners."

Source: Annual Report (2019) | Central Bank of Sri Lanka