CSE opens week on positive note driven by Investor optimism

By Almas Equities Research 

The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) commenced the week on a positive note, extending its upward momentum amid sustained investor confidence. The market surge was primarily driven by the continued optimism among investors, supported by a gradual easing of global uncertainties.

The All Share Price Index (ASPI) opened on a positive note and continued its rally throughout the session, ultimately gaining 18.29 points (+0.11 percent) to close at 16,397.68. Similarly, the S&P SL20 index advanced by 14.37 points (+0.30 percent) to end the session at 4,835.04.

Total market turnover amounted to Rs.2.61 billion, with 91.429 million shares traded. Market breadth reflected a mixed sentiment, with 81 gainers and 108 losers contributing to the overall movement of the ASPI.

Hatton National Bank PLC (HNB.N) emerged as the top contributor to the ASPI, adding 9.51 points, while Hayleys PLC (HAYL.N) was the largest detractor, subtracting 7.79 points. The Banking sector led sectoral turnover with Rs.1.20 billion, accounting for nearly 45 percent of total market turnover.

Crossing transactions also played a significant role, contributing approximately Rs.859.876 million roughly 35 percent of the day’s turnover. The largest crossings were recorded in shares of Pan Asia Banking Corporation PLC (PABC.N), totaling Rs.377.95 million with 10.29 million shares traded.

On the macroeconomic front, Sri Lanka’s services sector continued to expand in April 2025, albeit at a slower pace, with the Central Bank's Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) recording 60.6, down from 69.8 in March, amid tariff uncertainties. In contrast, the manufacturing sector experienced a notable contraction, as reflected by a sharp decline in the PMI to 40.1 from 63.9 in the previous month.