CSE gains momentum as capital goods lead turnover

By Almas Equities Research

The Colombo Stock Exchange closed on a positive note today, with both the ASPI and S&P SL20 recording modest gains. Elevated turnover and trading volumes supported the upward momentum, as the market gradually climbed within a defined intraday range before settling in green territory. Investor activity appeared selective, with cautious optimism evident amid ongoing portfolio adjustments.

The Capital Goods sector dominated market activity, recording a turnover of LKR 1.40 Bn supported by 31.72 million shares traded. ACL.N emerged as the top contributor within the sector, generating LKR 0.59 Bn in turnover with 5.73 million shares exchanged. Block trades also played a notable role, with ACL.N accounting for the largest crossing of the day, totaling LKR 0.15 Bn with 1.50 million shares traded.

Today’s Closing Statistics saw the ASPI rise by 37.02 points (+0.16%) to 23,919.84, while the S&P SL20 added 41.79 points (+0.62%) to close at 6,750.50. Overall turnover reached LKR 5.66 Bn on a total volume of 289.22 million shares, reflecting active participation despite selective buying.

Market breadth remained subdued, with 105 gainers against 124 decliners, signaling that profit-taking and rotation continued to influence broader sentiment.

Among key contributors, SAMP.N led the rally with a gain of 32.49 points, followed by HNB.N, JKH.N, ACL.N, and DIAL.N. On the downside, CINS.N fell 8.42 points, pressured alongside RICH.N, WIND.N, CARG.N, and CTEA.N. Notably, SCAP.N recorded significant activity, posting a turnover of LKR 0.51 Bn with 55.17 million shares traded, marking a price gain of 18.07%.

Overall, the session reflects continued investor confidence in select blue-chip counters, with the market gradually consolidating near current levels while participants remain selective in capital allocation.