CSE closed higher after a dip in the middle of the session

By Almas Equities Research 

The market closed on a gain as the All Share Price Index (ASPI) recovered from a sharp mid-session dip to end higher by 47.85 points, settling at 19,091.93 (+0.25%). The index had initially gained nearly 70 points in early trading before declining by approximately 140 points mid-session. The S&P SL20 also posted a modest increase of 10.63 points (+0.19%) to close at 5,657.62. Total market turnover stood at LKR 5.92 billion, with a share volume of 203.83 million.

Crossing transactions contributed LKR 655 million, representing around 11% of the day’s total turnover. RIL.N stood out in the crossings segment with the highest contribution, generating LKR 110.10 million in turnover from 3.7 million shares traded. Overall, 114 counters contributed positively to the ASPI, while 107 declined, reflecting a mixed but ultimately upward market sentiment.  The Banking sector led all others, contributing nearly 23% of market turnover.

DFCC.N emerged as the top positive contributor to ASPI, recording a turnover of LKR 500.58 million from 3.82 million shares. Other notable gainers included NDB.N, AEL.N, HNB.N, and ASHO.N. On the losing side, CARS.N led declines with minimal turnover, followed by HAYL.N, CTHR.N, MELS.N, and BUKI.N. ASCO.N saw a flurry of trades, while HOPL.N stood out with a sharp 20.56% price increase, highlighting selective investor interest in mid-tier counters.

On the macroeconomic front, market participants are closely monitoring ongoing tariff negotiations between the United States and the Government of Sri Lanka, which could have longer-term implications on trade dynamics and investor sentiment. Meanwhile, attention is also centered on the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), which is scheduled to announce its latest Monetary Policy decision tomorrow. The outcome of this announcement is expected to play a key role in shaping short-term market direction, particularly with regard to interest rate expectations and liquidity conditions in the financial system.