CSE ends positively as indices rebound

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed on a positive note today, marking a recovery after several consecutive sessions of decline. Both the All Share Price Index (ASPI) and the S&P SL20 recorded gains, reflecting renewed investor activity. 

The recent downturn in the market was largely attributed to escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. However, sentiment improved today following indications from the White House that U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to make a decision within the next two weeks regarding potential U.S. involvement in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. This announcement appears to have eased some investor concerns, contributing to the market's bounce-back, with expectations of further clarity supporting near-term sentiment.

The All Share Price Index (ASPI) inclined by 269.74 points, or 1.60%, to close at 17,087.95. Similarly, the S&P SL20 Index gained by 80.13 points, or 1.60%, ending the session at 5,099.28. Total market turnover amounted to LKR 2.50 billion, with 98.86 million shares traded. Market breadth reflected a broad positive sentiment, with only 177 gainers and 38 losers contributing to the overall movement of the ASPI.

Ceylinco Holdings PLC (CINS.N) emerged as the top contributor to the ASPI, adding 16.77 points, while Cargills (Ceylon) PLC (CARG.N) was the largest detractor, subtracting 4.21 points. The Banks sector led sectoral turnover with LKR 0.701 billion, accounting for nearly 28% of total market turnover.

Crossing transactions were involved today trading session, contributing approximately LKR 0.318 billion roughly 13% of the day’s turnover. The largest crossings were recorded in shares of  Hatton National Bank (HNB.N) totaling LKR 0.250 billion with 781,316 shares traded.