CSE Ends Mixed as Selective Buying Lifts ASPI

By Almas Equities Research

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed Thursday’s session on a mixed note, with the All-Share Price Index (ASPI) ending in positive territory while the S&P SL20 edged slightly lower. Investor sentiment remained volatile throughout the session, as the ASPI fluctuated within the 22,775–22,850 range before closing higher, supported by selective buying interest in large-cap counters.

The Capital Goods sector once again dominated market turnover, contributing LKR 2.10 billion, or 26% of total market activity. JKH.N led the sector with LKR 772 million in trades, underscoring strong institutional participation and continued investor confidence in the counter.

At market close, the ASPI advanced 62.41 points (+0.27%) to 22,839.53, while the S&P SL20 declined 7.92 points (-0.13%) to 6,202.71. Total market turnover stood at LKR 7.78 billion, with 223.13 million shares traded.

Crossings contributed significantly, accounting for LKR 3.07 billion (39% of total turnover). The largest crossing by both turnover and volume was recorded in ATL.N, generating LKR 1.21 billion with 44.50 million shares traded.

Market breadth reflected a balanced sentiment, with 129 gainers and 96 decliners, indicating mild consolidation following the recent upward rally.

Among key movers, CINS.N (+26.02 points) was the top positive contributor to the ASPI, followed by DOCK.N, SINS.N, GRAN.N, and DIMO.N. On the downside, MELS.N (-6.05 points) led the drag, while CTHR.N, JKH.N, NTB.N, and NHL.N also weighed on the index.

Among notable trades, ATL.N stood out with a turnover of LKR 1.42 billion across 1,132 transactions, reflecting heightened retail participation and short-term speculative interest in the counter.