CSE touches 23,000 milestone amid volatile trading session

By Almas Equities Research

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) experienced a volatile yet positive session today, as the All-Share Price Index (ASPI) briefly surpassed the 23,000 mark during early trading hours. However, profit-taking emerged later in the day, pulling back gains and leaving the index to close modestly higher.

The ASPI advanced 25.18 points (+0.11%) to close at 22,953.49, while the S&P SL20 edged down 3.12 points (-0.05%) to settle at 6,249.28. Market volatility remained elevated, with the ASPI fluctuating between 22,928 and 23,028 throughout the session.

Total market turnover stood at LKR 4.40 billion, supported by 161.71 million shares traded. The Capital Goods sector once again led the day’s activity, contributing LKR 1.22 billion (27% of total turnover). SPEN.N dominated the sector, recording LKR 453 million in active trading, reflecting continued institutional participation and investor confidence.

Crossings accounted for LKR 623 million (14% of total turnover), with the largest crossing by both turnover and volume recorded in SPEN.N, generating LKR 387 million with 2.37 million shares traded.

Market breadth remained negative, with 73 gainers and 170 decliners, indicating mild consolidation following the market’s recent strong run.

Among key index movers, SFCL.N (+39.13 points) was the top positive contributor, followed by SUN.N, DOCK.N, CARG.N, and SPEN.N. On the downside, WIND.N (-11.53 points) led the losses, alongside CARS.N, HAYL.N, RICH.N, and CDB.N.

Among notable trades, SPEN.N stood out with a turnover of LKR 453 million and 2.77 million shares traded, reflecting heightened retail participation and short-term speculative interest in the counter.