CSE begins May with positive momentum

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) started the May with a positive trading session from the beginning to end, supported by a strong rebound in investor sentiment.

Opening on a positive footing, the ASPI maintained positive momentum throughout the session, ultimately closing at 15,851.74, up 51.80 points (0.33 percent). The S&P SL20 Index has posted a slight drop, declining  5.37 points (0.12 percent) to settle at 4,638.29.

Total market turnover amounted to Rs 5.90 billion, with 77.26 million shares traded. Market breadth was notably positive, with 121 gainers outweighing 60 losers, reflecting broad investor participation contributing to the All-Share Price index. 

Pan Asia Bank Corporation (PABC.N) emerged as the top contributor to the ASPI, adding 6.69 points, while  John Keells Holdings (JKH.N) was the largest drag, subtracting 15.47 points. The Food Retailing  sector led in terms of turnover contribution.

Today,  Crossing transactions contributed significantly to overall turnover, totaling Rs. 4.23 billion, or roughly 71 percent of daily turnover. The largest crossings were recorded in CT Holdings PLC (CTHR.N), accounting for a total of Rs. 2.02 billion with 5.2 million shares traded. Also, Cargills (Ceylon) PLC (CARG.N) crossing recorded  Rs. 2  billion with 4.45 million shares traded.

On the macroeconomic front, the external sector of the Sri Lankan economy continued to strengthen in March 2025. According to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the country recorded its highest monthly current account surplus since the introduction of monthly current account statistics in January 2023, reflecting growing external stability and improved economic conditions.