CSE kicks off week with mixed sentiment

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) closed on a mixed note today, reflecting a slight decline in investor confidence and subdued market momentum. Market participants appeared cautious, with trading activity remaining relatively muted amid a lack of fresh catalysts.

The All Share Price Index (ASPI) shows both   positive and negative momentum and ended the with a slight upward positive market . ultimately inclining 1.78  points (0.01%) to close at 16,496.24. Similarly, the S&P SL20 index slight declined by 3.14 points (0.06%) to end the session at 4,838.94.

Total market turnover amounted to LKR 3.760 billion, with 171.815 million shares traded. Market breadth reflected a positive  sentiment, with 108 gainers and 88 losers contributing to the overall movement of the ASPI.

Ceylon Cold Stores (CCS.N) emerged as the top contributor to the ASPI, adding 11.13 points, while John Keells Holdings Holdings (JKH.N) was the largest detractor, subtracting 11.61 points. The Food, Beverage and Tobacco led sectoral turnover with LKR 0.918 billion, accounting for nearly 25% of total market turnover.

Crossing transactions also played a significant role, contributing approximately LKR 0.763 billion roughly 20% of the day’s turnover. The largest crossings were recorded in shares of Dialog Axiata PLC (DIAL.N), totaling LKR 295.168 million with 17.362 million shares traded.

On the macroeconomic front, Sri Lanka’s exports rose by 12% to USD 983.3 million in April 2025, driven by apparel, tea, and coconut-based products, while services exports dipped slightly by 0.59% to USD 309.3 million. Furthermore, Sri Lanka and the U.S. are set for a second round of bilateral talks on tariff regulations in Washington, D.C.