Investor momentum returned as the market closed higher

By Almas Equities research

The Colombo Stock Exchange closed on a positive note on 14 January 2026, as renewed investor interest lifted market momentum during the session. The All Share Price Index advanced by 100.9 points, or 0.43 percent, to close at 23,708.70, after gaining more than 165 points at mid-session. Activity in the market picked up notably, with 73 crossings across 22 counters, signalling a return of confidence among investors.

Turnover for the day reached LKR 9.26 billion, supported by a share volume of 326.23 million. The telecommunication sector dominated trading, contributing LKR 1.76 billion to total turnover with 52 million shares changing hands. Dialog Axiata PLC (DIAL.N) emerged as the standout contributor within the sector, accounting for LKR 1.6 billion in turnover on the back of 51.4 million shares traded. Crossings contributed LKR 3.1 billion, representing 33 percent of total market turnover, with the largest single crossing also recorded in DIAL.N, amounting to LKR 1.64 billion for approximately 51 million shares.

The S&P SL20 Index also closed higher, gaining 47.21 points, or 0.73 percent, to settle at 6,541.97. Despite the positive index performance, market breadth remained relatively weak, as advances slightly outnumbered declines, with 120 gainers against 108 decliners, indicating some underlying selling pressure.

Index performance was largely driven by strong gains in DIAL.N, which contributed 24.9 points to the ASPI and closed up 5.33 percent, while MELS.N, NTB.N, LIOC.N, and HAYL.N also supported the upward movement. On the downside, SFCL.N was the largest drag on the index, shedding 8.7 points, with additional pressure coming from HNB.N, DFCC.N, AEL.N, and RICH.N.

Overall, the day’s trading reflected a recovery in investor participation, led by heavy interest in large-cap counters and crossing activity, although broader market sentiment remained cautiously balanced.