CSE ends higher despite intra-day volatility

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed in positive territory today, following a session marked by sharp volatility. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) initially surged nearly 145 points before retreating by 148 points mid-session. However, a late recovery pushed the ASPI to close with a modest gain of 33.95 points (+0.17%) at 19,566.15. Meanwhile, the S&P SL20 dipped slightly by 0.78 points (-0.01%) to settle at 5,751.68. Market turnover stood at LKR 5.28 billion with a share volume of 180.93 million, including LKR 0.851 billion from crossings, accounting for approximately 17% of total turnover.

The Capital Goods sector led the day's activity, contributing nearly 28% to total market turnover. A total of 89 counters ended in the green, while 129 posted declines. Among positive contributors to ASPI, MELS.N saw a turnover of LKR 59.91 million from 382,245 shares traded, with SEYB.N, CTC.N, ACL.N, and SAMP.N also bolstering the ASPI. On the other hand, JKH.N led the negative contributor to ASPI with a turnover of LKR 392.36 million from 16.19 million shares traded, dragging the index alongside CCS.N, SUN.N, DFCC.N, and BIL.N.

Crossing activity was led by HNB.N, generating the highest turnover of LKR 202.92 million. LHL.N emerged with the highest volume in crossings, recording 1.94 million shares. Notably, LHL.N also registered the day’s strongest price performance, rising by 13.78%.