CSE closes June quarter with ASPI surpassing 18,000 mark

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed the month on a historic high, with the All Share Price Index (ASPI) surpassing the 18,000 mark for the first time. This achievement reflects a continued wave of investor optimism and strong market momentum, supported by active participation across multiple sectors. Sentiment improved notably following the recent easing of global geopolitical tensions, which helped sustain the market’s positive trajectory since last Wednesday. Moreover, today  marks the end of the June quarter, adding further significance as investors look ahead to the upcoming earnings season, with expectations of stronger corporate performance underpinned by improving economic conditions and sectoral recovery.

The ASPI inclined by 153.98 points, or 0.86%, to close at 18,026.72. Similarly, the S&P SL20 Index gained by 69.45 points, or 1.31%, ending the session at 5,352.51. Total market turnover amounted to LKR 6.38 billion, with 257.30 million shares traded. Market breadth reflected a positive sentiment, with 126 gainers and 92 losers contributing to the overall movement of the ASPI.

Central Finance Company (CFIN.N) emerged as the top contributor to the ASPI, adding 27.2 points, while Ceylon Tobacco Company  PLC (CTC.N) was the largest detractor, subtracting 6.57 points. The Diversified Financials led sectoral turnover with LKR 1.60 billion, accounting for nearly 25% of total market turnover.

Crossing transactions were involved today trading session, contributing approximately LKR 1.104 billion roughly 17.3% of the day’s turnover. The largest crossings were recorded in shares of LB Finance PLC (LFIN.N) totaling LKR 330.50 Mn with 2.55 million shares traded.

On the macroeconomic front, the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) on a year-on-year (Y-o-Y) basis, recorded a deflation of 0.6% in June 2025, compared to a deflation of 0.7% in May 2025, according to data released by the Department of Census and Statistics. Furthermore, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) announced that fuel prices will remain unchanged for the month of July.These developments reflect a relatively stable price environment and  indicate easing cost pressures in the economy. The continuation of mild deflation, combined with stable energy prices, suggests an optimistic economic outlook.