CSE hits new all-time high as market closes

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed on a positive note today, with the All Share Price Index (ASPI) reaching an all-time high of 17,214.39, marking an increase of 234.50 points (1.38%). Similarly, the S&P SL20 Index also recorded an all-time high, rising by 96.36 points (1.91%) to close at 5,131.28.

Total market turnover amounted to LKR 7.37 billion, with 271.94 million shares traded. Market breadth reflected a positive sentiment, with 139 gainers and 77 losers contributing to the overall movement of the ASPI.

Commercial Bank of Ceylon (COMB.N) emerged as the top contributor to the ASPI, adding 28.03 points, while SMB Finance PLC (SEMB.N) was the largest detractor, subtracting 2.34 points. The Banking sector led sectoral turnover with LKR 1.893 billion, accounting for nearly 25% of total market turnover.

Crossing transactions played the significant role in today trading session, contributing approximately LKR 0.763 billion roughly 10% of the day’s turnover. The largest crossings were recorded in shares of  Hatton National Bank PLC (HNB.N), totaling LKR 160.00  million with 0.50 million shares traded.

On the macroeconomic front, Sri Lanka is continuing discussions with the United States on tariffs, following the return of a negotiation team from a second round of in-person talks in Washington, according to Deputy Minister Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma.