CSE gains as investor activity picks up

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed on a positive note today, with the All Share Price Index (ASPI) gaining 139.82 points (+0.68%) to settle at 20,753.21, after an early rally of nearly 152 points. The S&P SL20 also advanced modestly by 13.64 points (+0.23%) to 6,062.44. Market turnover stood at LKR 7.38 billion with 330.62 million shares traded, reflecting a pickup in investor activity following several days of subdued sentiment. Crossings accounted for LKR 1.62 billion or 22% of total turnover, led by LOLC, which recorded the highest crossing value of LKR 357.5 million.

Sector-wise, the Diversified Financials sector led contributions, making up 20.3% of daily turnover. A total of 145 counters closed in positive territory while 69 declined, showcasing a broadly supportive market breadth. Among the key gainers, AEL.N posted a turnover of LKR 92.7 million on 1.53 million shares, while VONE.N, CTC.N, RCL.N, and CARG.N also lent strong support to the index. Notably, PHAR.N surged by 24.49%, marking one of the day’s sharpest price gains, while ASIY.N also saw heightened trading interest.

On the downside, JKH.N weighed on the index with LKR 189.3 million turnover on 8.18 million shares. LOLC.N, COCR.N, PLC.N, and CARS.N also exerted pressure on the market. Despite these declines, overall sentiment remained positive, underpinned by strong investor appetite for fundamentally robust counters, signaling renewed confidence in the market.