CSE posts strong turnover driven by Banking and Capital Goods sectors

By Almas Equities Research

Eroding the previous day’s losses, the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) generated a significant turnover of LKR 8.87 billion today. Both the All Share Price Index (ASPI) and the S&P SL20 maintained a steady rally throughout the session, with minor fluctuations, reflecting sustained investor optimism. Market volatility remained elevated, with the ASPI moving within the 22,300 to 22,450 range.

The session was primarily driven by the Banking and Capital Goods sectors, each contributing over LKR 2.0 billion in turnover, supporting broader index gains. The start of the September quarter earnings season further bolstered sentiment, highlighted by LIOC.N reporting exceptional quarterly returns.

The ASPI closed at 22,416.15 points, up 123.87 points or 0.56%, while the S&P SL20 rose 27.82 points or 0.45% to finish at 6,226.64. Total turnover reached LKR 8.87 billion, with 293.75 million shares traded. Crossings accounted for LKR 3.57 billion, representing 40% of total turnover. HHL.N recorded the largest crossing, generating LKR 1.19 billion from 34.6 million shares.

Market breadth reflected selective strength, with 124 gainers and 96 decliners. Top positive contributors included HHL.N (+10.98 points), followed by SAMP.N, VLL.N, RICH.N, and DIMO.N. On the downside, DIAL.N led the drag with a decline of 7.28 points, while MELS.N, SEMB.N, CFLB.N, and DIPD.N also weighed on the indices.

Among notable trades, HHL.N stood out with a turnover of LKR 1.66 billion, closing with a price gain of 2.93%, underscoring its role as a key driver of today’s market activity.