ASPI pulls back amid subdued trading

By Almas Equities Research

The Colombo Stock Exchange saw a mild retreat on Thursday (21st November 2025), as the market gave back some of the previous day’s gains. The ASPI declined 122.24 points (-0.53%) to close at 22,982.72, while the S&P SL20 shed 17.57 points (-0.28%) to end at 6,364.61. Market volatility remained subdued, with lower trading volumes and turnover contributing to the gradual downward movement.

The Food, Beverage & Tobacco sector dominated market activity, generating LKR 938 Mn in turnover. HPL.N was the top contributor, recording LKR 300 Mn in turnover with 10.9 Mn shares traded, highlighting strong investor interest in the counter.

Total market turnover reached LKR 3.81 Bn, with 146.65 Mn shares changing hands. Crossings contributed LKR 603 Mn (18% of total turnover), led by HPL.N’s block trade valued at LKR 297.6 Mn.

Market breadth remained negative, with 75 gainers and 150 decliners, reflecting ongoing consolidation pressure after recent gains.

On the performance front, AEL.N led the positive contributors with a 4.90-point rise, supported by BIL.N, HAYC.N, WATA.N, and CCS.N. Conversely, HNB.N was the biggest drag, losing 10.50 points, while BUKI.N, GREG.N, SFCL.N, and CARG.N also weighed on the index.

Among notable trades, RAL.N stood out with strong retail participation, recording LKR 212 Mn in turnover and 23.95 Mn shares traded, closing with a 9% price gain.