ASPI Eases After Early Rally

By Almas Equities Research

The market closed in negative territory today, with both indices declining gradually throughout the session. Despite an initial 113-point surge in early trading, the indices lost momentum as profit-taking pressure intensified, leading the ASPI and S&P SL20 to close lower by the end of the day.

The Capital Goods sector emerged as the top turnover generator, contributing LKR 1.45 billion (25% of total turnover) to market activity. DOCK.N led the sector, recording LKR 467 million through active trading, reflecting sustained institutional participation and investor confidence in the counter.

By market close, the ASPI slipped 23.73 points (-0.10%) to 22,788.79, while the S&P SL20 declined 10.68 points (-0.17%) to 6,255.63. Total market turnover reached LKR 5.76 billion, supported by 306.88 million shares traded during the session. Crossings accounted for LKR 825 million (14% of total turnover), with the largest crossing by both turnover and volume recorded in JKH.N, generating LKR 192 million from 9 million shares.

Market breadth reflected a mixed sentiment, with 94 gainers and 139 decliners, signaling mild consolidation following recent rallies.

Among key movements, DOCK.N (+18.60 points) led the gains, followed by CINS.N, HARI.N, MELS.N, and NHL.N. On the downside, CTHR.N (-12.72 points) led the drag, while CFIN.N, RICH.N, SFCL.N, and BUKI.N also weighed on the index.

Among notable trades, CHL.N stood out with a turnover of LKR 475 million, supported by 445 transactions, indicating heightened retail participation and short-term speculative interest in the counter.